To accurately test for mould on a property, a professional mould remediator will need to obtain a sample of the mould. Air samples and surface samples are taken from the contaminated area and analysed at an accredited laboratory to positively identify the mould spores.

• Air Sampling  - Air samples can be collected in many ways. The most common method is by using a spore trap such as the  SKC VersaTrap Spore Trap Cassette. Mould spores are captured onto a microscopic slide with a sticky surface after which they are sent away to laboratories for analysis. When the sample arrives for analysis the trap is opened and a stain is applied to the sticky surface for the mould to absorb. From there the captured spores can be positively identified and quantified.
• Surface Sampling -  Surface sampling can help to determine if the microbial levels in the test area are greater than background levels.The three most common methods of surface sampling are:
  • Bulk Sampling -  A piece of mould-contaminated surface is removed and sent to the laboratory for analysis
  • Swab Sampling -  A sterile swab such as the SKC Sterile Surface Swab Kit is used to wipe over a mould affected areas.
  • Tape Sampling  -  A transparent sticky tape such as the Stick-to-it Lift Tape is used to remove particles from a mould surface for laboratory testing.

Large scale mould infestation can usually be detected visually. However, mould can also be present in areas we don’t usually look or is inaccessible such as underside of furniture, behind plaster walls and under sub-floors. A property should be treated for mould inspection and testing by a mould remediation specialist or a certified occupational hygienist if:

• There is the smell of mould but no visible spores. The smell of mould is strong, potent, damp and musky.
• The house suffered from a leak/ moisture issues.
• Residents or employees are suffering from increasing health problems such as blocked nose, irritation to the eyes and wheezing.
• Mould testing is required before purchasing or selling of property. Many states in Australia have also amended the laws for Residential Tenancy Agreement to ensure a rental property is fit for habitation before being leased out.
• Increase humidity and lack of ventilation is noticed. 

Here are some things to consider by mould sampling professionals before purchasing or renting mould sampling equipment such as air sampling pumps, surface sampling media and bioaerosol collection equipment.

• Expiration dates of sample media  -  Expired sample media can lead to inaccurate results
• Mould air testing need to be conducted using a calibrated mechanical pump  -  If the air sampling pump is not calibrated, spore counts can show inaccurate information.
• Choosing quality air and surface sampling products from reputable manufacturers and suppliers - When you use mould sampling equipment from trusted brands such as SKC Ltd you can be assured of reliable air or surface sampling kits, sampling media and accessories for your sampling needs. At Air-Met Scientific, we provide you with calibrated instruments, local service in Australia and technical support.