Remediation companies are typically in the business of removing black mold to prevent further deterioration of the building and ensure that the building is safe. This is extremely important because exposure to mold can put those who live or work there at risk for developing a variety of health conditions.
Yet safety is not guaranteed until the mold and anything it came in contact with is properly disposed of. That’s why including a certified hazardous waste company in the remediation process is essential.
As a remediation company, your goal is to remove the mold and make the house or building safe for your client to come back. Without the proper disposal of the black mold that you remove and the materials you used to remove it, you could be putting your client and yourself at risk.
Here are the top three reasons why you should team up with a hazardous waste company for any black mold removal jobs:
- Mold Isn’t The Only Hazard That Needs To Be Addressed
- Regulations Are Constantly Changing
- Improper Disposal Can Be Costly
Mold Isn’t The Only Hazard That Needs To Be Addressed
Depending on the size of the mold infestation, there may be a significant quantity of damaged materials that need to be removed from the property.
What may begin as surface mold can quickly spread to air ducts, wood frames, ceilings and other parts of a building. A hazardous waste company has the capability to transport large amounts of compromised materials and safely dispose of them.
Mold isn’t the only toxic substance that may need to be disposed of, however. Several types of chemicals are used during remediation services. Biocide, for example, is a liquid approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to kill mold. Though biocides are used in everyday life, they do carry some toxic properties that can adversely impact the environment and human health.
It’s important to work with a hazardous waste company that is familiar with chemicals used in black mold removal and experienced in properly disposing of them to ensure all state and federal regulations are met.
Regulations Are Constantly Changing
Environmental regulations are constantly evolving. In fact, in California alone, there were nearly a dozen regulations lawmakers considered during the 2019-2020 session, according to the Environmental Working Group. On the other hand, more than 100 federal regulations were rolled back over the past few years, according to the New York Times.
The back and forth can feel like whiplash, making it difficult for remediation companies to stay on top of regulations, especially considering California is one of the most stringent states when it comes to environmental laws.
Working with an experienced hazardous waste disposal company that is well versed in environmental laws can help ensure that your business is compliant and up to date on any regulations that may impact how you handle the chemicals used to treat mold.
Improper Disposal Can Be Costly
Hazardous waste can have a devastating impact on the environment. The chemicals used during the mold removal process, as well as any materials damaged by the mold infestation, can impact the air, soil, water and wildlife health.
Although regulations exist to help companies dispose of toxic materials properly, contamination still occurs. In fact, the EPA recorded voluntary disclosure and certified corrections of violations at more than 1,900 facilities in 2019 … an increase of 20% over 2018.
Some of these violations resulted in significant fines. In 2019, according to the EPA, there were more than $471 million in combined federal administrative and judicial civil penalties and criminal fines. There were also 170 criminal cases opened.
In the commercial sector, remediation companies help businesses ensure their employees are safe. However, once waste is generated during the remediation process, it must follow cradle to grave requirements.
What is cradle to grave? Cradle to grave states that a hazardous waste generator is responsible for its waste from initial generation through its ultimate disposal and beyond. A properly licensed hazardous waste disposal company is an important partner in ensuring your remediation company stays in compliance, even after the mold removal process is complete.
What To Look For In A Hazardous Waste Company
Hazardous waste companies should be licensed and bonded, as well as have adequate insurance to ensure your company is protected to the fullest possible extent.
During the research and interview process, be sure to determine whether the hazardous waste company:
- Is properly permitted for the transportation, storage, treatment and disposal of waste identified
- Has demonstrated a good sound history of regulatory compliance
- Meets minimum insurance requirements and has coverage for accidents
- Has adequate personnel that are properly trained in handling mold-contaminated materials and chemicals used to treat mold
- Can provide a statement of qualifications (SOQ)
- Are able to identify which companies are utilized and for what activities if using subcontractors
- Are able to provide a list of references on past projects
Your services keep individuals and the community as a whole safe. An experienced hazardous waste company can ensure that commitment to safety continues even after black mold removal is completed.
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