National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors

New Florida Mold Law Provides Grandfather Clause

2010-05-29T14:14:00.000-04:00

PRESS RELEASE for/from www.NORMI.org

New Florida Mold Law Provides Grandfather Clause

March 26, 2010 Abita Springs, LA

Governor Charlie Crist of Florida signed HB0713 on Wednesday evening, March 25, 2010 at 6:43pm providing for those currently working in the mold industry to be licensed under a “grandfather clause” option thus waiving the standard licensing requirements. When Florida’s new Mold Licensing Law goes into effect on July 1, 2010, Florida will become one of only five states across the nation to regulate the mold industry by licensing its mold professionals—the other four being Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, and Maryland.

“This grandfather clause is significant because it emphasizes Governor Crist’s commitment to avoid disrupting the mold industry while supporting and giving credibility to national organizations, like NORMI, that are keeping on top of this very dynamic industry,” commented Doug Hoffman, Executive Director of NORMI, the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors. “The Florida law gives credibility to national organizations that provide a proctored examination, which, of course, we do, and requires 60 hours of training for assessors and 30 hours of training for remediators thereby strengthening the concept that proper training is mandatory if you want to promote professionals to the public. Certifying agencies that require no training for certification, provide correspondence course certificates, or rubberstamp online training with a nice parchment certificate may begin to see how important it is to train properly and support their members with ongoing continuing education. That’s what we’re all about and we’re thrilled that Florida is taking a leadership role in setting the pace toward more professionalism in our industry.”

The Florida Mold Licensing Law, which goes into effect on July 1, 2010 will require mold assessors and mold remediators to be licensed with the state so the industry will be regulated under a new Mold Licensing Board, under direction of Richard Morrison, established for that very purpose. The grandfather clause provides for exceptions through March 1, 2011 to allow those trained and certified mold professionals already working in the industry, based on their association with a nationally recognized certifying agency or with proven work experience, to continue offering their services without interruption.

“This is a big day for NORMI because we have spoken and people are listening. The industry needs good regulation, no doubt, but just as important are certifying agencies like NORMI that offer ongoing support and training,” said Lance Eisen, COO of NORMI. “We answer questions every single day, do training every single day, help clients of our members every single day and that’s what not-for-profit certifying agencies should be doing. It’s not just about taking money for membership fees, it’s providing leading edge training, information, and support to anyone who needs it, the professional or the public. That, in the long run, is what will make the most significant difference in our industry.”

For more information on the Florida Mold Licensing Law or HB0713, please call NORMI at 877.251.2296 or email at support@normi.org
For information on classes available to support the Florida Mold Licensing Law, please call BTS at 888.856.4803 or visit www.BestTrainingSchool.com

Indoor Radon handbook

2009-09-25T14:36:00.003-04:00

The WHO (World Health Organization) has just published a new handbook on indoor Radon. You can download a .pdf copy at http://whqlibdoc.who.int/publications/2009/9789241547673_eng.pdf

State laws listing

2009-08-12T19:42:00.004-04:00

The National Center for Healthy Housing and National Conference of State Legislatures have joined forces to create a State by State listing of laws that impact healthy housing; including mold.

Their listing is available on an easy to use web-site with links to the actual laws referenced. Access the web-site at http://www.healthyhomestraining.org/codes/state.htm

If you know of any relevant laws not listed on their site, they encourage input and have included contact names and e-mail addresses in this site.

Healthy Buildings 2009

2009-08-06T11:50:00.000-04:00

When: 09/13/2009 - 09/17/2009

Location: Oncenter, Syracuse, NY

Healthy Buildings 2009 is an international signature conference and exhibition of the International Society for Indoor Air Quality and Climate (ISIAQ), hosted by Syracuse Center of Excellence and Syracuse University.

What: Healthy Buildings 2009Where: Oncenter, Syracuse, NYWhen: Sept. 13-17, 2009More information: http://www.hb2009.orgWho Should Attend? Architects, builders, building systems designers, building products and materials manufacturers, building maintenance and management professionals, public facilities administration, energy and indoor environment auditors, medical researchers, medical practitioners, health authorities, urban policy makers, urban planners, municipal authorities, work performance professionals, and insurers.
Conference Topics: indoor environmental quality, human performance and productivity, buildings and public health, indoor contaminants and pollutants, and building design and assessment.

Exhibition: The HB2009 exhibition will provide firms an unparalleled forum for the exchange of clean and green technology developments, a unique opportunity to showcase innovative products and services, and an extraordinary venue to network with national and global leaders working toward healthy, comfortable, and productive indoor and built environments.
Business-to-Business: To maximize business opportunities at HB2009, Syracuse University and SyracuseCoE will offer workshops, showcases, and seminars to both leverage the leading-edge work presented at the conference and to highlight to the international audience the research, demonstration, and commercialization projects underway in Central Upstate New York’s (http://www.creativecoreny.com) world-class colleges and universities.

Additional information:Website: http://hb2009.org

WHO publishes IAQ/Mold Guidelines

2009-07-20T16:30:00.003-04:00

The World Health Organization (WHO) has just released their IAQ guidelines on Dampness and Mold. Learn more at... http://www.euro.who.int/mediacentre/PR/2009/20090715_1.

Just follow the various links on this page to either order a copy or view it in .pdf

New EPA program for home construction

2009-07-13T13:57:00.002-04:00

EPA is rolling out a program for new home construction titled Indoor airPlus. EPA created Indoor airPLUS to help builders meet the growing consumer preference for homes with improved indoor air quality.

Construction specifications include the careful selection and installation of moisture control systems; heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems; combustion-venting systems; radon resistant construction; and low-emitting building materials.

You can visit http://www.epa.gov/indoorairplus/pdfs/consumer_brochure.pdf to learn more.

Particulates and Life Expectancy

2009-07-03T13:55:00.003-04:00

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine earlier this year has found that reducing/removing fine particulate matter from the air you breathe can extend life.

In their own words...

"A reduction in exposure to ambient fine-particulate air pollution contributed to
significant and measurable improvements in life expectancy in the United States."

You can download a copy of the 11 page report at http://content.nejm.org/cgi/reprint/360/4/376.pdf

formaldehyde linked to more cancers

2009-05-18T18:54:00.007-04:00

USA Today article reports on a new study just published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute that links formaldehyde to more, common cancers. You can read the USA Today article at http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-05-12-formaldehyde-cancer_N.htm

NORMIPro Environmental TASC Force

2009-05-10T08:19:00.002-04:00

May 1, 2009 – The NORMIPro Environmental TASC Force has officially launched its Charter Chapters in over 15 states and in 3 provinces of Canada. More chapters are opening daily and there is an overwhelming interest in this organization.

The TASC Force chapters will hold positions for a variety of environmental professionals such as Certified Mold Inspectors and Remediators; Restoration Professionals; Infection Control Specialists; Green Home Designers, Builders & Architects; Environmental Medicine Doctors; Natural Health Practitioners; Licensed Contractors; Alternative Energy and Energy Management Specialists; Water Quality Solutions Providers; Air Quality Solutions Providers; Green Cleaning Providers; Organic Body Care and Cosmetics Providers and many more…

The mission of the TASC Force is to provide resources for these types of professionals who need multi-faceted solutions providers for many of their client jobs. This will enable them to have qualified and trusted environmental professionals to refer out or to subcontract in their projects.

Another important mission of the TASC Force is work in conjunction with local government officials and emergency personnel in the event of a local or regional disaster. These local chapters will be a one-stop resource for any and all of the services that would be needed in such a situation.

Charter Chapter President Applications are being accepted now, as well as member applications for the chapters already established.

For more information contact:
Linda Eicher
Director, NORMIPro Environmental TASC Force
877-751-3100 ext.865
Linda@NORMIPro.com

Fox News report - mold sickens family

2009-05-01T12:51:00.001-04:00

Fox News reported that a Virginia family was sickened by mold in their new, custom built, home. Watch it here... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5tXlKN5uFA

Healthy Buildings 2009 conference in New York

2009-04-24T12:35:00.001-04:00

Healthy Buildings 2009 (Syracuse, NY)Registration Is Now Open for Healthy Buildings 2009. Visit http://www.hb2009.org/home for more information. Healthy Buildings 2009 will take place in Syracuse, NY, USA from September 13 to 17, 2009. Join the world’s leaders at the Ninth International Healthy Buildings Conference and Exhibition.

Visit http://www.hb2009.org/registration to take advantage of Early Registration rates and choices of accommodations. This international meeting, hosted by Syracuse University and the Syracuse Center of Excellence in Environmental and Energy Systems (SyracuseCoE), will provide a forum for exchange of leading research and technology developments,a unique opportunity to share information on your company’s innovative products and services, and an extraordinary venue to network with national and global leaders and professionals in the fields of indoor air quality and healthy built environments.

Air Pollution role in arthritis?

2009-04-16T04:00:00.000-04:00

Living near a busy highway may increase the risk for rheumatoid arthritis.

Harvard researchers studied nearly 100,000 women and looked at how far their homes were from roads with more than two lanes of traffic. Those living within 55 yards of a big road increased their risk for developing rheumatoid arthritis by nearly a third, compared with women who lived at least 220 yards away.

This suggests pollutants may play a role.

New sofas to blame for rash of allergies

2009-04-12T12:58:00.002-04:00

Research is now confirming that pesticides packed into furniture coming from China are causing several health issues. You can read an article from the Sydney Morning Herald just published today at... http://www.smh.com.au/national/new-sofas-to-blame-for-rash-of-allergies-20090411-a3e2.html?page=-1

Care for your air brochure

2009-04-07T13:20:00.002-04:00

The EPA published a new brochure in September of 2008 entitled, "Care for Your Air: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality." It is available in .pdf format at http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pdfs/careforyourair.pdf or in hard copy by ordering document number EPA 402-F-08-008 directly from the EPA.

This brochure was written for the consumer and provides basic information on common indoor air pollutants and remedies. While not as comprehensive as the NORMI protocols for improving IAQ, this EPA primer can be a useful part of an IAQ education program.

OSHA releases new respiratroy protection guidelines

2009-04-07T12:57:00.002-04:00

OSHA has published a new guideline document, Assigned Protection Factors(APF), that provides employers with vital information for selecting respirators for workers exposed to contaminants in the air. The guidelines focus on mandatory respirator selection provisions added to the existing Respiratory Protection standard. OSHA revised this standard in 2006 to add APFs and Maximum Use Concentration (MUC) provisions.

APF refers to the level of respiratory protection that a respirator or class of respirators is able to provide against particles, gases, or vapors.The higher the APF number (5 to 10,000), the greater the level of protection provided to the user.

MUC represents the limit at which the class of respirator is expected to provide protection. Whenever a hazard's exposure level exceeds MUC, a respirator with a higher APF should be selected.

You can access this new document at... http://www.osha.gov/Publications/3352-APF-respirators.pdf

EPA Considering Formaldehyde Regulations

2008-12-18T14:14:00.000-05:00

On November 25th, the United States Environmental Protection Agency published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) regarding formaldehyde emissions from pressed wood products. This is the first step towards regulations that would limit the off-gassing of formaldehyde from composite wood materials, such as those responsible for the elevated levels of formaldehyde in FEMA trailers used following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

The EPA is soliciting comments, information, and data related to formaldehyde emissions from pressed wood products. Written comments may be submitted by February 2nd to regulations.gov using docket number EPA-HQ-OPPT-2008-0627. Additionally, the EPA will be holding six public hearings in January in Triangle Park, N.C.; Portland, Ore.; Chicago, Dallas, and Washington DC. Conspicuously missing from the list of hearing locations is any gulf coast city where so many individuals were effected by the FEMA trailers. This oversight was severely criticized by the Sierra Club and other advocates. As a result of public pressure, an additional hearing on the Gulf Coast is likely to be announced.

EPA’s decision is largely a response to a petition submitted in March by the Sierra Club, dozens of other organizations including the Alliance, and signed by approximately 5,000 individuals. The petition called for the EPA to make the strict formaldehyde regulations established by the California Air Resources Board nationally applicable. Formaldehyde is a probable human carcinogen and causes airway and eye irritation.

For more information on EPA’s ANPR, the dates of the public hearings, or a copy of the petition, see http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/chemtest/formaldehyde/index.htm. For information on the attempt to include the gulf coast as a hearing location, see http://action.sierraclub.org/site/MessageViewer?em_id=80681.0.

Sick Buildings Cause Serious Illness

2008-12-18T14:07:00.001-05:00

Swedish researchers have found that people affected by so called sick-building-syndrome can stay ill for a significant period of time. Sick building syndrome is caused by problems with the building’s environment, like poor ventilation or dampness.

Researchers at Umeå University looked at 189 patients who became ill due to their working conditions and followed them for up to 20 years. They found that almost half of the patients were still seriously ill after seven years, and registered for at least part time incapacity benefit as a result.

The scientists hope that their study will get this syndrome taken more seriously in the future, as seeking help early is crucial to long term chances of recovery.

Dangers Of Going Green

2008-12-18T13:53:00.001-05:00

Industrial hygienists found that mold, rot, and corrosion are dangers that must be accounted for when builders construct energy-efficient homes. Recycled materials used in this type of construction are likely to absorb more water than new materials. Air quality can also become an issue because of a heightened focus on insulation which, in addition to reducing heating and cooling costs, can limit the movement of water vapor and potential pollutants.Green building is a growing trend across the country. Eco-friendly homes are being built with recycled wood, solar panels and energy efficient appliances -- but what is healthy for the environment could hide a growing problem in its walls.

Read the Science Daily article and watch the video at http://www.sciencedaily.com/videos/2008/1001-dangers_of_going_green.htm

Mould Toxins More Prevalent And Hazardous Than Thought

2008-12-10T13:22:00.000-05:00

ScienceDaily (Dec. 9, 2008) — Mould toxins in buildings damaged by moisture are considerably more prevalent than was previously thought, according to new international research. Erica Bloom from the Division of Medical Microbiology at Lund University in Sweden has contributed to research in this field by analyzing dust and materials samples from buildings damaged by mould. Virtually all of the samples contained toxins from mould.

REad the entire article at http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/12/081209085622.htm

ETS linked to behavioral problems

2008-12-07T12:37:00.001-05:00

ScienceDaily (Dec. 5, 2008) — Boys with asthma who are exposed to environmental tobacco smoke have higher degrees of hyperactivity, aggression, depression and other behavioral problems, according to researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center.

Read the full story here... http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/12/081204133553.htm

GREEN building programs evaluated

2008-11-11T14:01:00.002-05:00

The National Center for Healthy Housing issued an analysis of various GREEN building programs in September. Titled, "How Healthy Are National Green Building Programs?" it can be downloaded from http://www.centerforhealthyhousing.org/Green_Analysis_2008.pdf

HUD drafts Strategic Plan for Healthy Homes

2008-11-11T13:55:00.002-05:00

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued it's draft version of a Healthy Homes Strategic Plan in September, 2008. You can access it at http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/library/hhi/DraftHHStratPlan_9.10.08.pdf

Healthy Buildings 2009

2008-11-11T13:41:00.001-05:00

SyracuseCoE and Syracuse University will host Healthy Buildings 2009, a premier international conference and exhibition, in Syracuse, NY, USA on September 13-17, 2009.

The conference website is now open and is accepting abstracts through an on-line abstract submittal system. You can access their website at www.hb2009.org for more information.

Women's Hands Have Much More Bacteria Than Men

2008-11-05T11:55:00.002-05:00

WOW!! Who knew?

Read the blog at...

http://www.scientificblogging.com/news_releases/womens_hands_have_much_more_bacteria_men

Nothing to do with mold, but interesting.

Fungi Geneticist Warns of Sick Building Syndrome

2008-11-05T11:43:00.003-05:00

MedPage Today story of a Fungi Geneticist who previously decried SBS, but is a convert now that her home has been affected. I guess a dose of reality can change someone's mind.

Read the story... http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/ICAAC-IDSA/11529

New Home Test Kit

2008-10-11T14:13:00.002-04:00

The below press release about a new user-friendly self test kit sounds very much like the EPA ERMI. Anyone interested in knowing more about ERMI can contact me via this BLOG and I'll be happy to send you info.

Jeff

National Jewish Health Launches Family Air Care(R) Indoor Allergens and Mold Test Kit DENVER, Oct. 7 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

Retailer Green Depot, home inspectors, green builders and realtors all on board to market and distribute test

Home owners, buyers and renters can now assure that their indoor environment is healthy and safe with an easy-to-use kit manufactured and serviced by the nation's number one respiratory hospital, National Jewish Health. The Family Air Care(R) Indoor Allergens and Mold Test Kit reports levels of the most common indoor allergens and a relative moldiness index. The product will be especially useful for millions of people with allergies and asthma, who can benefit from lower exposure to allergens and irritants in their environment.

To use, consumers simply attach a small capture device to their vacuum cleaner hose, briefly run the vacuum cleaner in their homes, then mail the collection device to National Jewish Health in a pre-paid envelope provided with the kit. Test results will be posted on a secure Web site, which customers may access with a PIN provided with the kit. In addition to providing specific levels for four allergens (cat, dog, cockroach and dust mite) and a relative moldiness index formulated by the US Environmental Protection Agency, the results also show how customers' homes compare with homes across the nation. Information will also be provided regarding steps that can be taken to reduce allergen levels within the home.

"The Family Air Care(R) kit is the only commercially available indoor-air testing kit that lets customers compare their results with samples from homes around the nation, and offers specific advice about how to interpret the results and what to do after receiving them," said David Tinkelman, MD, Vice President of Health Initiatives at National Jewish Health.
Green Depot, the #1 supplier of environmentally friendly and sustainable building products, services and solutions, will offer the kit for $349 via its e-commerce site, Greendepot.com, and its 5 retail locations.

National Jewish has also partnered with EcoBroker International, the nation's largest network of environmentally oriented and trained real estate agents, and the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors to market and distribute Family Air Care(R).

The kit and additional information are also available at www.familyaircare.com .

SOURCE National Jewish Health

IAQ Resource Library

2008-10-02T18:17:00.003-04:00

Lawerence Berkeley National Laboratory, in cooperation with the EPA, has created an IAQ Scientific Findings Resource Bank. The IAQ-SFRB serves as a resource for public health professionals, building professionals, and others who seek scientific information about the effects of IAQ on people's health or work performance. You can access it at http://eetd.lbl.gov/ied/sfrb/sfrb.html

ACOEM Position Paper

2008-09-03T13:05:00.002-04:00

The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine has published a controversial position paper you should know about. This paper has successfully been used by defendants (insurance companies, contractors, and building owners) in litigation. However, many experts in mold/IAQ contest the findings of this paper and challenge it's use in litigation cases. You can read the ACOEM position paper at http://www.acoem.org/guidelines.aspx?id=850. You can also hear opposing opinions in the Leonard Lopate Radio Show of 9/1/08 (link posted earlier).

New Radio Interview

2008-09-03T12:45:00.003-04:00

On Monday, (9/1/08), The Leonard Lopate Show broadcast an interview with two Mold/IAQ experts. A recording of the show (about 40 minutes long) is available at http://www.wnyc.org/player.html#/play//stream/xspf/107561

Toxic mold and its effects on pets

2008-08-23T12:00:00.000-04:00

Thought you'd find this article interesting.

http://www.clarksonvillagevet.com/index.php?view=pageView&docid=100049661

Cancer is a FUNGUS

2008-08-05T12:55:00.002-04:00

Watch this TV interview about a startling revelation on cancer and the connection to fungi.

http://www.knowthecause.com/Shows/TullioSimonciniMDWithDougKaufmann/tabid/109/Default.aspx

ASHRAE IAQ Guide

2008-07-25T14:37:00.001-04:00

Review Period for ASHRAE IAQ Guide Opens July 25.

The 90% Review Draft for the Indoor Air Quality Guide: Best Practicesfor Design, Construction, and Commissioning will be available for reviewand feedback from July 25-Aug. 17. All remarks must be received by Aug.17. Once received, the remarks will be reviewed, compiled, and responded to in a single Summary Response document posted on www.ashrae.org.

To learn more about the IAQ Guide and the review, click here. <http://images.ashrae.biz/redirect/?url=979> Beginning Friday, July 25,the review draft will be available at this location.

NORMIPro Blog available in 13 languages

2008-07-21T23:45:00.002-04:00

With the addition of Bablefish to this site, readers can translate postings into 12 additional languages. With NORMI gaining an International footprint, Bablefish will enable readers from other parts of the world to get up to date information on the IAQ Industry.

Con la adición de Bablefish a este sitio, los lectores pueden traducir fijaciones a 12 idiomas adicionales. Con NORMI ganando una huella internacional, Bablefish permitirá a lectores de otras partes del mundo conseguir la información hasta la fecha sobre la industria de IAQ.

Avec l'addition de Bablefish à cet emplacement, les lecteurs peuvent traduire des signalisations dans 12 langues additionnelles. Avec NORMI gagnant une empreinte de pas internationale, Bablefish permettra à des lecteurs d'autres régions du monde d'obtenir l'information à jour sur l'industrie d'IAQ.

この場所へのBablefishの付加を使うと、読者は12の付加的な言語に投稿を翻訳できる。国際的な足跡を得ていてNORMIがBablefishは世界の他の部分からの読者がIAQ工業の最新情報を手に入れることを可能にする。

Powerful video - Death of a Health Inspector

2008-07-21T22:43:00.001-04:00

Follow this link to watch an ABC News video about the death of a Nevada Health Inspector caused by mold. This is part one of a two part series.

http://www.ktnv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8695699

LEADING EXPERTS URGE FLOOD-AFFECTED HOMEOWNERS NOT TO USE BLEACH

2008-07-11T12:54:00.003-04:00

Proper Steps Include Using EPA-Registered Mold & Mildew Products
To Avoid Widespread Post-Katrina-Type Loss

Abita Springs, July 2008 – The National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI), a not-for-profit cooperative of mold experts and professionals, is urging owners of residential and commercial properties affected by Mississippi River flooding not to use household bleach to remove potentially harmful mold and mildew from water-damaged surfaces.

While bleach may temporarily remove the discoloration caused by mold, the organization said only EPA-registered mold and mildew products labeled as a cleaner, disinfectant, fungicide and/or mildewstat are truly effective at killing the micro-flora that can enable mold to grow, and make property potentially uninhabitable.

Rising mid-Summer temperatures and humidity, and flood-soaked materials of virtually all kinds are a perfect storm for likely rapid mold growth and its attendant effects on air quality and health. Widespread recommended use of bleach alone in post-Katrina New Orleans is believed to have had devastatingly negative effects on owners’ and renters’ abilities to reclaim their homes, because of bleach’s inability to prevent mold and mildew re-growth.

“The bottom line is this—as research and hard experience have proven, bleach does not kill the organism at its root and can promote mold growth, allowing re-growth. While bleach is effective as an everyday quick, cosmetic fix, bleach is not the thing to use in heavy-duty situations where preventing re-growth may be critical to short- and long-term habitability,” said Douglas Hoffman, Executive Director of NORMI. “No one wants to see another post-Katrina situation along the Mississippi River, so we want to leave no doubt about these facts—bleach is simply not effective for controlling mold problems.”

NORMI has devoted part of its website to information links Mississippi River-affected property owners can follow to find local mold remediation resources, and commercial- and consumer-grade products that are EPA-registered mold and mildew disinfectants effective at killing mold and preventing its re-growth. “Products like Moldex Disinfectant, Anabec, and BacShield, as examples, are strongly recommended for those who are wanting products that really work,” continued Hoffman. “We encourage consumers to become label-readers, study the ingredients, look at the testing data, and evaluate the company claims to be sure you are using safe, greener technologies.”

For information on flood clean-up, how and where to access federal disaster assistance and on mold cleaning or remediation information, please visit http://www.normi.org/ or call 877.251.2296

Certified Formaldehyde Screening program

2008-07-11T11:45:00.002-04:00

The Certified Formaldehyde Screening program is an online or self-study course that trains the IAQ Professional in techniques to screen for and then reduce formaldehyde contamination levels in indoor environments. The class covers the sources of formaldehyde, the deleterious health affects, and the solutions recommended to lower levels and manage the indoor air quality environments. This class is based on information provided by the US Department of Health and Human Services and other resources that are included in the class online or on CD.

Once the student completes this class, he is expected to pass a test evidencing his complete understanding of the issues surrounding formaldehyde and the techniques used to reduce formaldehyde levels on a permanent basis. After the student has completed the online quiz, he is encouraged to activate his membership so he can take advantage of the benefits offered by NORMI to ACTIVE Members.

The NORMI CFS is given direction on how to research more information and, included in the CD or online course, is provided a 468 page document as a reference guide from the US
Department of Health and Human Services. Online resources for this course include equipment spec sheets, a formaldehyde/ozone formula for calculating ozone levels to reduce formaldehyde, and the class handouts in color and black/white for the student to make class notes during the class.

The goal of the CFS is to provide an ongoing IAQ Management program that will insure that levels of formaldehyde have been substantially reduced to levels below the acceptable limits established by the EPA, NIOSH, OSHA, the World Health Organization and the American Conference of Governmental and Industrial Hygienists.

NORMI is in the process of establishing a VOC Certificate of Sanitization to use in conjunction with this training so the NORMI CFS can provide documentation and proof that the techniques and services offered are actually effective in reducing formaldehyde and other VOCs. Special logging equipment is discussed that will record and document pre and postscreening formaldehyde.

The NORMI CFS course is available in a Self-Study CD Version ($149) or an ONLINE version ($99) at http://www.besttrainingschool.com/cfs.php

NEW “BRAG” BLOG OPEN TO NORMI MEMBERS

2008-03-31T19:10:00.000-04:00

The newest feature added to the www.NORMI.org website is a blog managed by its own administration and contributed by members. “This is an opportunity for our members to tell the world about the problems they have solved in their client’s homes and office,” announced Douglas Hoffman, Executive Director of NORMI. “Our solution-based mold training is becoming the standard in our industry and we want the world to know that our recommended solutions work every time. Our IAQ and mold professionals are proud of what they do, as they should be, and we want to give them a public forum where everyone can know of their successes.”

The new webpage, www.NORMIPro.blogspot.com, will help potential clients understand the value of utilizing a NORMI trained professional and evaluate the effectiveness of the solutions they may offer. Mold problems, indoor air quality concerns, and other environmental issues in the construction industry are often indentified by seldom solved to the satisfaction of the client. NORMI is setting a new standard of excellence in these areas. “It doesn’t do any good to find a problem then neglect to offer the solutions,” commented Della White, NORMI Board of Directors. “Our members take great care to provide solutions that are wholistic and, where possible, environmentally safe. We are proud of their efforts and whether they are Mold Inspectors, Remediators, IAQ Specialists, or other NORMI Trained Professional, we want the whole world to know of their success.”

NORMI, the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors, is an approved training provider for several states including Louisiana and Florida, states that have enormous mold problems that need to be dealt with professionals and effectively. NORMI holds classes throughout the United States and, through its online courses, have trained professionals in Spain, UK, and Brazil. Registration for all classes, whether online, onsite, or self-study courses, can be found at www.BestTrainingSchool.com or for more information call 1.888.856.4803.

ENVIROSCREENING LAB CERTIFIED BY TEXAS

2008-03-22T11:11:00.000-04:00

ENVIROSCREENING LAB CERTIFIED BY TEXAS

PRESS RELEASE
Austin, TX December 5, 2007- The EnviroScreening lab has been certified by the Texas Department of State Health Services in the State of Texas to perform as a Mold Analysis Laboratory capable of processing environmental samples for Texas licensed Mold Inspectors, Mold Assessors, and Mold Remediators. "This is a giant step in the right direction toward legitimacy in the field of environmental sampling because the State of Texas is the first and, so far, the ONLY state that certifies mold analysis labs," said Glenn Moore, Micro-Supervisor for EnviroScreening.

"The field of laboratory analysis is very competitive," reports Doug Hoffman, NORMI Executive Director, "and we have tried to provide our members with a less-expensive alternative to laboratories that require more extensive and expensive certifications from AIHA and its competitors. In the screening process and where litigation is not a consideration, the EnviroScreening lab provides a cost-effective alternative for our clients."
EnviroScreening, LLC was founded seven years ago and provides a variety of sample processing dealing with environmental issues including, but not limited to, mold, fungus, bacteria, particulate, and water sampling. EnviroScreening has recently expanded its services and sampling kits to include MRSA and provides these services to the public at www.EnviroScreening.com

Lance Eisen, COO of NORMI, stated, "One of NORMI's goals for 2008 is to provide training courses in the State of Texas that meet their licensing requirements. Being able to provide this lab resource is a step closer to that goal. We are proud of Glenn and the work he has done to achieve this great certification."

For more information regarding EnviroScreening and the services they offer, you may contact 1-888-845-3029 ext 1000 and for more information on NORMI, contact 877.251.2296

EnviroScreening,LLC Texas License Number LAB1001 Control Number 6331

NORMI ANNOUNCES NEW DESIGNATION AAA (ADVANCED ANABEC APPLICATOR)

2008-03-22T11:06:00.000-04:00

NORMI ANNOUNCES NEW DESIGNATION AAA (ADVANCED ANABEC APPLICATOR)
03/01/08 Abita Springs, LA

NORMI announces the completion of a new designation entitled AAA (Advanced Anabec Applicator). "By partnering with Anabec Systems," reported Lance Eisen, COO of NORMI, "NORMI takes its training of mold professionals to a new level. Never before has there been such a powerful training program specifically designed for applicators within the indoor air quality industry. The Anabec Systems provides long term protection against mold and bacteria up to 30 years, and we are honored that they have chosen us to facilitate this practical training program. By utilizing on-site, hands-on training, the student will learn the practical side of this industry from estimating to closing."

This training program is a 2-Day class and provides a comprehensive look at the fastest-growing area of the mold prevention industry. The focus of this class is targeted to train professionals in the applications of warranted products on both New Construction and Mold Remediation projects.

"Anabec Systems currently has online training and on site training opportunities available with their systems, as well as marketing and sales guidance. The NORMI AAA Training takes the training to a new level," said Stephen Meyers, President of Anabec Systems. "NORMI brings training skills and learning techniques to the table that will enhance what we are already doing and we believe the synergy will be good for the industry."

The NORMI AAA Training is now available for registration at http://www.besttrainingschool.com/ and seating is limited to 20 people because this is a "hands-on" learning environment. Early registration will assure a spot for those who are interested in offering 20 year and 30 year structural warranties to their remediation and new construction projects.

For more information on NORMI AAA Training, go to http://www.besttrainingschool.com/ or contact the school directly at 888.856.4803

MRSA Superbug

2007-10-18T11:17:00.000-04:00

MRSA Superbug - Who should be scared? What to do?

By: Bill Belew October 17, 2007

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, MRSA, the superbug has attacked schools in Virginia...and the students are scared, their parents are scared...and the global warming scare has taken a back seat, if not then, just for a short period. Something else is attacking and the dangers are imminent.

Each year it is estimated that some 90,000 people - a crowded Rose Bowl full of people, get infected with the potentially deadly infection. Some 18,000+ (a Phoneix Sun's Arena full) die.

MRSA is often carried on the skin and in the noses of HEALTHY PEOPLE.

The disease spreads wildly through:

1. schools

2. hospitals

3. prisons

4. athletic facilities

MRSA does not respond to penicillin and related antibiotics.

Three students died from the disease in the past week from MRSA infection that can spread:

1. from skin-to-skin contact

2. sharing an item from an infected person

3. touching an open wound

The best way to fight...to prevent the infection is o:

1. wash hands regulalry

2. keep cuts and abrasions clean

3. watch out for contaminated medical equipment

4. stay out of the hospital - a full one-fourth of invasive cases of staff infections happen to patients in hospitals and more than half are related to the healthcare industry.

5. let the kids have a say - schools in VA were closed after the students "there launched a protest Monday using text messages and social networking sites."

The ERMI Question

2007-10-14T11:28:00.000-04:00

ERMI, Research Data or Commercial Product?

Created by Wei Tang, Ph.D. on Sep 29, 2007
Description/History:
[This petition initiated by Dr. Wei Tang on October 14, 2007 is his personal opinion and it is NOT the position of any organization or business that he is affiliated or working with.]

Standardization of a sampling and analytical method requires years of collaboration from experts in related disciplines and must be based on industry-recognized protocols. It's not a government agency's role to write a “standardized” method based on a few studies and then ask an entire industry to recognize and accept it.

When conducting indoor mold growth investigations, one of the industry-recognized methods is to compare a suspected problem area to a non-problem reference area which represents a normal background level of fungal biomass. ERMI, developed by EPA, uses a reference internal to the sample itself based upon ten fungal species (Group II). It is a new and unproven fungal ecology model developed for indoor mold growth investigation and was developed with little involvement of mycologists. As with any new theory or method, it must be proven or validated with extensive research data over time.

Following are some of the important issues surrounding ERMI that still need to be addressed:

(1) Basic Fundamentals:
The proponents of ERMI ignore many of the established fundamental practices used in performing indoor environmental investigations. For example, it is widely recognized that sampling is only one aspect of a comprehensive building investigation. ERMI uses only one sample and it is being marketed by some labs to less-than-qualified mold inspectors or homeowners as a substitute for a properly performed field investigation. Water intrusion and dampness in a building is the root cause of microbial growth problems which have the potential to impact the health of occupants. These moisture issues need to be corrected. ERMI does not address or locate the cause of microbial growth in buildings. All areas of significant mold growth need to be identified and removed. ERMI presently only places emphasis on 26 Group I species out of hundreds of possible fungal species that can be found in indoor environments. Even more inappropriate is the fact that any significant mold contamination in the building from any of the 10 species in Group II will lower the ERMI score. For this reason, ERMI cannot be used as a Post-Remediation Verification (PRV) tool. In fact, current “Mold-Specific Quantitative PCR” (MSQPCR) cannot responsibly be used for PRV because it does not detect all groups of fungal spores.

(2) Flawed ERMI Calculation Formula and Data Variation:
ERMI is calculated by using a unique unproven formula, which is the “sum of the logs from Group I concentrations” from which the “sum of the logs from Group II concentrations” is subtracted.

ERMI = (sum of the logs from Group I concentrations) - (sum of the logs from Group II concentrations)

since:
Log(A) + Log(B) + Log(C) = Log (A x B x C)
Log(D) - Log(E) = Log (D/E)

therefore:
ERMI = Log(all Group I concentrations multiplied together/all Group II concentrations multiplied together)

As a result, ERMI represents fungal ecology as numeric data that has not been fully studied and it produces questionable results. For example, assume two samples, Sample 1 and 2, have identical Group II background. Sample 1 has 10 species detected in Group I with 10 spores each. Sample 2 has 1 species detected in Group I with 10,000,000,000 spores. Total concentration and species diversity have always been important parts of traditional data interpretation methods. Sample 2 with 10,000,000,000 spores from one single species represents a much more significant mold growth problem than Sample 1 which contains 100 spores from 10 different and diverse species. The sum of Group I spore concentration is 100,000,000 times lower than that of Sample 2, however, ERMI will give the exact same score for both samples.

Also as stated in (1), if any significant mold contamination in the building is from any of the 10 species in Group II, the ERMI score will be lowered instead of increased. It is clear that ERMI does not reflect “total mold burden”. This flaw in the calculation formula also contributes to its huge variation (or random error) of minus 3 to plus 3 (+/- one standard deviation) in a log scale. A wide range of 6 index difference translates into a lot of uncertainty. There is also a good possibility that the actual ERMI will fall outside of the range of +/- 3 of reported ERMI (+/- one standard deviation).

(3) Method Development:
Some of those chosen ten internal reference species (Group II) are considered by many mycologists to be species commonly found in water damaged buildings. These species are not appropriate choices to be use as background contamination or as an internal reference standard. Even when using appropriate internal references, a single carpet dust sample alone is hardly considered by most consultants to be representative of an entire house.

It has never been properly demonstrated that ERMI correlates to an independent set of reliable data representing “mold burden”. ERMI quartiles established based on HUD’s (2006) American Healthy Home Survey are merely a ranked order of ERMI values themselves, and they were not correlated with an independent set of data that establishes or defines “mold burden”. The definition of "mold burden" is based upon the 26 Group I mold species found in 11 carpet or floor dust samples from 6 Cleveland homes in which infants developed pulmonary hemorrhage. They were selected by comparing to 26 samples collected from reference homes in the same area and are presumed to be representative of universal "mold burden" and its associated health effects in occupants of all ages in all residential buildings throughout the country. It also assumes that any of those 10 Group II species cannot be a problematic mold source in a building. These assumptions have never been properly tested or proven and are not realistic.

(4) Method Validation:
MSQPCR developed by EPA can be a good tool for IEQ investigation in some specific applications. However, ERMI, which utilizes this valuable technology but applies an unproven method of data interpretation, has not been properly validated using existing industry-recognized methods for indoor mold investigation in extensive side-by-side comparison studies. It does not even locate the water problems or the mold sources, which are what consultants and homeowners need to know to create a more healthful environment. Its claim of superiority to other investigation methods is unproven and has no basis.
Petition:
EPA shall collaborate with other scientists in related fields, e.g. mycologists, ecologists and environmental consultants, to consider alternative mathematical models based on existing scientific knowledge to replace or improve ERMI and ARMI (simplified version of ERMI) to utilize MSQPCR data for more meaningful indoor environmental quality assessment purposes.

Until further published research and public and peer review has demonstrated that valid conclusions can drawn from the ERMI/ARMI using MSQPCR data, EPA shall require licensed laboratories to provide disclaimers in ERMI/ARMI reports advising of its limitations. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

(1) When performing an investigation of mold contamination, it is important for qualified professionals to conduct a thorough building inspection and interview occupants regarding building history and health complaints. Sampling is only part of an indoor environmental quality investigation. Water intrusion and dampness in a building is the root cause of microbial growth problems which have the potential to impact the health of occupants. These moisture issues need to be corrected as soon as possible.

(2) MSQPCR does not detect all fungal species or identify the components comprising the mold biomass (spores, hyphal fragments, and/or other fungal structures). Direct microscopic examination is required to detect total spores (viable and non-viable) of all fungal species as well as to identify the presence of other fungal structures.

(3) ERMI does not reflect the total mold count (burden) or overall environmental healthfulness of an indoor environment. It should not be used as the sole decision-making factor for indoor environmental quality investigation or Post-Remediation Verification (PRV).

EPA shall also require licensed laboratories to:

(1) provide the sum and individual quantitative concentrations and the percent composition of each of the 36 species to allow traditional data interpretation methods to be performed.

(2) not accept ERMI/ARMI samples from homeowners without working with a qualified indoor environmental consultant.

Original published at http://www.gopetition.com/online/14485.html

Health Alert from NewsMax

2007-09-20T13:57:00.000-04:00

Link Found Between Depression and Mold

A groundbreaking public health study has found a connection between damp, moldy homes and depression. The study, led by Brown University epidemiologist Edmond Shenassa, is the largest investigation of an association between mold and mood and is the first such investigation conducted outside the United Kingdom.
Shenassa said the findings, published in the American Journal of Public Health, came as a complete surprise. In fact, after a few U.K. studies published in the last decade had suggested a link, Shenassa and his skeptical team set out to debunk the notion that any link existed.

“We thought that once we statistically accounted for factors that could clearly contribute to depression — things like employment status and crowding — we would see any link vanish,” said Shenassa, the lead author of the study and an associate professor in the Department of Community Health at Brown. “But the opposite was true. We found a solid association between depression and living in a damp, moldy home.”

Shenassa noted the study, an analysis of data from nearly 6,000 European adults, does not prove that moldy homes cause depression. The study wasn't designed to draw that direct conclusion. However, Shenassa’s team did find a connection, one likely driven by two factors. One factor is a perceived lack of control over the housing environment. The other is mold-related health problems such as wheezing, fatigue, and a cold or throat illness.

“Physical health, and perceptions of control, are linked with an elevated risk for depression,” Shenassa said, “and that makes sense. If you are sick from mold, and feel you can’t get rid of it, it may affect your mental health.”
The study was a statistical analysis of data from the Large Analysis and Review of European Housing and Health Status (LARES), a survey on housing, health, and place of residence conducted in 2002 and 2003 by the World Health Organization (WHO). To conduct the survey, WHO interviewers visited thousands of homes in eight European cities and asked residents a series of questions, including if they had depressive symptoms such as decreased appetite, low self-esteem, and sleep disturbances. WHO interviewers also made visual checks of each household, looking for spots on walls and ceilings that indicate mold.

Shenassa’s team analyzed LARES data from 5,882 adults in 2,982 households.
“What the study makes clear is the importance of housing as indicator of health, including mental health,” Shenassa said. “Healthy homes can promote healthy lives.”
Shenassa and his team are conducting follow-up research to see if mold does, indeed, directly cause depression. Shenassa said that given the results of the current study, he wouldn’t be surprised if there is a cause-and-effect association.

Molds are toxins, and some research has indicated that these toxins can affect the nervous system or the immune system or impede the function of the frontal cortex, the part of the brain that plays a part in impulse control, memory, problem solving, sexual behavior, socialization, and spontaneity.

Onset Computer Corporation Announces Strategic Partnership with NORMI

2007-08-27T10:58:00.000-04:00

Onset Computer Corporation Announces Strategic Partnership with NORMI for Mold Inspections and Remediation

BOURNE, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Onset, the world leader in data logging solutions, today announced that it has formed a partnership with the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI), a cooperative network of first responders in the war against indoor air quality and mold problems.

NORMI members, including Mold Inspectors, Remediators, and Technicians, will use HOBO® data loggers for Warranty Compliance and real-time environmental evaluation. This powerful alliance will help provide a dramatic impact on Indoor Air Quality Issues and customer satisfaction.

Lance Eisen, Chief of Operations for NORMI said, "The Onset data loggers are a needed piece of the solution for solving Indoor Air Quality Problems. Many consumers get a false sense of security by using various types of indoor Air Quality filtering or cleaning machines. The Onset devices allow the consumer to know if they are actually improving their indoor air quality."

A HOBO data logger is a portable, pager-sized electronic device that can measure and record temperature and relative humidity (RH) on a 24/7 basis over extended periods of time. HOBO data loggers utilize Onset's HOBOware software to activate the logger and view/analyze the collected data. For more details, please visit http://www.onsetcomp.com.

ABOUT ONSET

Onset Computer Corporation has been producing small, inexpensive, battery-powered data loggers and embedded controllers since 1981, and has sold over 1,000,000 loggers that are used throughout the world by over 50,000 customers. The company manufactures a broad range of data logger and weather station products that are used to measure temperature, humidity, light intensity, voltage, and a broad range of other parameters. Onset products are used in a wide range of research, commercial, industrial, and educational applications.

NORMI Members and their Business

2007-08-19T10:00:00.000-04:00

If you are a NORMI Member, please feel free to add a comment about yourself and your Business.

BLEACH DOES NOT KILL MOLD!

2007-08-18T15:44:00.000-04:00

D. Douglas Hoffman
Executive Director of NORMI

A well-known expert in our area, when interviewed on a local New Orleans radio station, recently said, "When you have a mold problem, simply wash down the affected area with diluted bleach." We have seen FEMA handing out gallons of Clorox to flood-victims. Lowe's and Home Depot stock up pallets of the stuff whenever the impending doom of a threatening hurricane is close. This is one of the most widely publicized "urban legends". Bleach is a powerful oxidizer and can, in many instances, sanitize surfaces of certain types of bacteria but when you are faced with a wall covered in mold, bleach is NOT the product to use.

Eyebrows raise in disbelief every time I say the phrase "bleach doesn't kill mold." Some look at me as if I'm speaking another language and they are right. I am speaking the TRUTH. Bleach (active ingredient is Sodium Hypochlorite) is very effective in removing the discoloration but may leave the microflora that will enable the mold to return in exactly the same spot when conditions are right. So, "how do you know this," I'm asked.

Several years ago we helped develop a process by which shingle and tile roofing systems could be cleaned of the mold and mildew that plague them. Look at any Real Estate guide or website that lists houses for sale and you'll see house after house with mold streaks running down from top to bottom of the roofing system. The mold on the roof looks ugly but that was not our biggest concern.

There are two bigger concerns and, therefore, reasons to address this roof mold problem. 1) It destroys the shingle and, 2) it makes your air conditioning system less efficient. First, shingles are made, primarily, of organic materials. The asphalt or fiberglass content in a shingle is only a small percentage of the entire composite. This organic material is ripe fruit for the mold to eat. As we all know, mold needs to have a nutrient of some sort and organic materials are especially appealing. The petroleum-based asphalt is protected from the UV light of the day's sun by a "ballast" or granules that are "glued" to the surface of the shingle. When the mold begins to grow it "pops" the granules off of the shingle exposing the asphalt to the UV, thus shortening the life of the shingle. When shingles begin to curl, that's a good sign that the shingle is drying out and its life is ending. Cleaning the roof off using an effective biocide will lengthen the life of the shingle by allowing the granules to remain tightly adhered to the surface.

Secondly, a black roof absorbs more heat than a lighter roof. Interestingly enough, in Florida, most homeowners choose a lighter roofing color for that very reason and yet, after a few years, they all end up the same color - black. We commissioned a study once in conjunction with the University of South Florida and found a substantial difference in attic temperatures once the roof was cleaned and the original lighter color was restored. I mean 30 degrees or more. That means by simply cleaning your roof to the lighter color you could make a major difference in the attic temperature and that would allow your air conditioning system to function more efficiently. In most cases the attic is the insulating space just above the air conditioned space so having those temperatures reduced substantially lowered the air conditioning bill.

The importance of understanding these problems make it relatively easy to sell the customer of the value of having their roof cleaned. However, what product or products to use could make a substantial difference in the longevity of the cleaning process and the effect of the cleaning process on the roofing system. Of course any time of high pressure wash could destroy the shingle by removing the granules so a low pressure wash is desirable and that makes the chemical solution you use more important. We used a combination of surfactants, detergents, and BLEACH (sodium hypochlorite) to lightly spray on the roof then rinse it off with no more pressure than a garden hose. It worked great. Only problems were that the landscaping had to be protected from the toxicity of Clorox and the mold would return in less than two years. Even walking around on the roof every couple of years could damage the roofing system so we looked for a better alternative.

Anecdotally, my wife wonders why she has to clean the same spot of mold on the bathroom tile month after month. Now she knows why. The mold has never been killed - it simply goes clear and then returns. Bleach will not kill the mold but a good biocide, or anti-microbial, will.

To underscore the validity of my claim, I suggest the "Journal of Forest Products" who commissioned a study by Oregon State University a couple of years ago. We have this article on our website where we have posted the abstract and the results. The "implications" of their testing showed exactly what we have been training for years. The stain disappears but the microflora remains and under the right conditions the mold will begin to grow.

In our Sanitization Protocol we recommend using GREEN technologies to remove surface mold. When you use the right kind of anti-microbial, the mold will be destroyed and the underlying bio-slime will be annihilated. I wish we had known about these kinds of technologies ten years ago when we were cleaning roofing systems. Instead of spending so much time protecting the landscape, we could have done an additional job or two. We could have completed more jobs and our subsequent warranty workload would have been reduced.

NORMI PARTNERS WITH INFRASPECTION INSTITUTE FOR MEMBER TRAINING

2007-08-18T15:41:00.000-04:00

The National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI) has partnered with Infraspection Institute of Burlington, New Jersey. The partnership will provide thermographic training for NORMI members and will also give members access to all training courses offered by the Institute.

"Thermography is now a common tool for home and building inspectors for detecting evidence of latent moisture," said Doug Hoffman, Director. "Although most thermal imagers are user friendly, proper training is imperative for accurate diagnoses."

"Infraspection Institute has been selected as our training partner based on their professionalism and experience of almost 30 years. We believe that the ability for members to gain additional training and certification is invaluable. Infraspection's training courses can provide our members with additional expertise, ideas, and opportunities for expanding their business.

Jim Seffren, Director of Infraspection Institute, added, "We are very pleased to be working with Normi. It is a pleasure to work with a professional association that places education at the top of its priorities. We look forward to working with Normi to provide training, certification and to assist in the development of new procedures and standards within the industry."

For additional information on infrared training and certification, contact Infraspection Institute 609-239-4788 or visit www.infraspection.com.

For more information on NORMI, contact 877-251-2296 or visit www.NORMI.org

Health Departments trained in NORMI Certified Mold Inspectors classes

2007-08-18T15:39:00.000-04:00

Orange County Florida and Philadelphia Pennsylvania Health Departments trained in NORMI Certified Mold Inspectors classes

July 1, 2007 Abita Springs, LA — Members of the Orange County Florida and Philadelphia Pennsylvania Health Departments have been trained in NORMI Certified Mold Inspectors classes in the last month. One Health Department attendee commented, "I found the class very informative. Being new to this field I’m sure it will be very helpful". Comments were very positive and NORMI looks forward to continuing the relationship with counties throughout the United States.

"The Health Departments across the country play a very important role in educating the public and we felt it was important to offer our training to these great organizations," reported Lance Eisen, Chief of Operations for NORMI. "We are developing an entire program for Health Departments and are interested in helping them serve their constituents with accurate information about mold and its potential health effects."

NORMI has a program for Health Department officials across the county who are interested in learning more about this very dynamic industry. If you have an interest in this program or the services NORMI may provide, please contact Lance Eisen, COO directly at 1.877.251.2296.

NORMI PROPOSES MOLD INSPECTION AND REMEDIATION REGULATIONS

2007-08-18T15:33:00.000-04:00

A NOTE from D. Douglas Hoffman, Executive Director-

"Many progressive Legislators and Senior Statesmen are now considering the need for good mold licensing legislation at the State level. Currently only two states have such laws governing the licensing of mold inspectors and mold remediators and the tendency to over- or under-regulate seems to produce unwanted results. On one extreme a law could be so strictly written so that anyone who touches mold is considered a candidate for licensing and that would drive those who want to work in the mold industry out of the state into neighboring states. At the other extreme, the law might so vague that it could apply to no one as well as it applies to everyone. In either case the public and the industry loses. The need for good clear legislation is what prompted our effort here. We believe we have succeeded with what follows here. It is not perfect but it is a place to start.

A good comprehensive piece of legislation takes time and money to make into law. NORMI does not have the enormous resources required to "lobby" for what we know is to the benefit of our industry in regards to licensing. What we DO have is large network of trained professionals with years of experience in the mold industry and a burning desire to help any legislating or regulatory body develop a mold licensing law that 1) specifically defines this niche industry for what it is without over-regulating the construction industry, 2) accurately identifies the roles for various licensees, and 3) does not create an undo burden or hardship on the public, the licensees, or the regulatory agencies but will still efficiently monitor the growth of this industry.

Our desire is to put this in the hands of those who are interested is spiriting our cause. We believe NORMI has the answer for indoor air quality issues like mold and as we have developed this licensing legislations and protocols for the assessment, sanitization, and removal of mold, we are also working on long-term protocols for long-term warranties so homeowners and building owners alike can be assured a clean indoor air environment for themselves and those they protect."

D. Douglas Hoffman
Executive Director of NORMI

Click Here to View the Proposed Regulations

FEMA Trailers and Indoor Air Quality

2007-08-18T15:31:00.000-04:00

FEMA TRAILER DWELLERS GET HELP FROM NORMI--Abita Springs, LA Executive Director Douglas Hoffman announced that NORMI has arranged a testing program that will enable FEMA trailer dwellers to test new NASA Certified Space Age Technology on the indoor air quality of their trailers. FEMA has been flooded with reports of high levels of formaldehyde and those living in the trailers are complaining of a myriad of health problems they believe may be the result. NORMI is asking those who are experiencing such problems with their indoor air quality to contact NORMI immediately to volunteer for the one week test that will begin later this month.

"We have received many requests for help with some of the formaldehyde issues facing FEMA trailer owners, " said Mr. Hoffman, "and we think we have some solutions. By offering this opportunity to evaluate these new indoor air quality technologies, we think we are helping people with problems that no one else seems to be addressing. Opening the doors and windows sounds like a good idea, but I can tell you that, as a resident of Louisiana myself, this is not the time of year to be letting in all that 'fresh air'. Mold spore counts are high, humidity levels are soaring, and these folks could be exacerbating a problem that needs a real, permanent solution. We don't know if this will work in every case but we are confident it certainly can't hurt!"

The NORMI Test Program is designed for families who are currently living full-time in their FEMA trailer as they work on their permanent home. To be eligible for this FREE trial, the participant must call 800.728.7206 and leave their contact information. Those who are selected will be contacted by NORMI to establish a date for the test to begin. Other restrictions may apply but, if selected for the test, no money will be required for this program.

"People will think this is 'too good to be true' so I suppose it's time for them to put us to the test. We continue to educate professionals and the public on the benefits of improved indoor air quality and we are thrilled to have the opportunity make things better," announced Mr. Hoffman

CMA Class in NOLA

2007-08-18T14:21:00.000-04:00

Here we are, Hurricane Season 2007. Just in time for me to travel to the much anticipated CMA (Certified Mold Assessor's) Class in New Orleans. Hurricane Dean is making it's way across the Atlantic threatening us with the possibility of a Gulf Landfall. Well, if all goes well, he will stay south and miss the US coastline. I plan on being at the 2 day course and meeting those of you taking the class. Hope to see you there. (August 24-25) For mor info on the class go to www.BestTrainingSchool.com

Lance

About NORMI

2007-08-18T09:24:00.000-04:00

The National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors trains and certifies professionals in the mold abatement industry. NORMI also certifies professionals in the fields of IAQ, Drinking Water, and other biological contaminants.NORMI is a cooperative group of Certified IAQ/Mold Inspectors and Certified Mold Remediators who have successfully completed training and certification in those specific areas of expertise.Our programs assure the consumer that the professional they choose evidences experience and adheres to a strict Code of Ethics. For more information, please visit us at www.NORMI.org .Training and Class information can be found at www.BestTrainingSchool.com