Frequently Asked Questions

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DEFINITIONS/ACRONYMS. These definitions are specific to this document and in accordance with NORMI™,
National Organization of Remediators and Microbial Inspectors. These definitions are not necessarily definitions
used industry-wide and do not take precedence over any licensing rules or regulations published by a specific
State or governing body.
o Air Scrubber—this is an AFD when operating inside containment recirculating the air for the purpose of
removing contaminants prior to the PRV. This is a process, not a machine. The same AFD is also used as
a NAM
o Air Washing—required for containment area prior to final PRV testing, this is an agitation of the air,
using a low pressure process, to push remaining particulates toward the air scrubber.
o AFD – Air Filtration Device
o ASHRAE—American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers
o Building Envelope—Unless otherwise defined by the governing municipality, the building envelope shall
be defined as the perimeter surfaces surrounding and limiting conditioned living space. NOTE: New York
defines the building envelope as all areas within the footprint of the structure, whether conditioned or
non-conditioned, living and non-living space.
o Certified—a professional who has taken the appropriate field-specific training, taken a proctored
proficiency examination and met additional requirements by a nationally recognized certifying agency
like IICRC, NORMI™ and/or ACAC.
o Certificate of Completion™—a trademarked document that includes a statement from the mold
professional that, based on visual, procedural and analytical evaluation, the indoor mold growth
identified for the project has been remediated as specified in the MRP and that the underlying cause(s)
and condition(s) have been addressed and resolved so that it is reasonably certain that the mold will not
return from those same causes. The NORMI™ Certificate of Sanitization document could be used as this
certificate of mold damage remediation.
o CMA—Certified Mold Assessor
o CMR—Certified Mold Remediator
o CMS—Certified Mold Screener
o CMAT—Certified Mold Assessment Technician
o CMW—Certified Mold Worker
o Containment—a component or enclosure designed or intended to prevent the release of mold or moldcontaining
dust or materials into surrounding areas in the building during mold-related activities.
o Containment Area—an area that has been enclosed to prevent the release of mold or mold-containing
dust or materials into surrounding areas, a containment area is usually placed under negative pressure.
o Contiguous—in proximity; neighboring; most often, adjoining.
o Cumulative—a total of areas contaminated by visible mold in a single HVAC system coverage area (i.e.
heated or air conditioned by a single HVAC unit)
o Directly Supervise—licensee will follow the specific guideline(s) given by the regulating agency under
whom he is licensed. In the absence of such direction, NORMI™ defines the phrase as to direct and
exercise control over the activities of an individual(s) by being physically present at the job site or, if not
physically present, accessible by telephone within ten minutes and able to be at the site within one hour
of being contacted.
o Dry Fogging–a process of delivering an approved sanitizing agent within an indoor environment that has
a verifiable droplet size of 7.5 microns or below, whereby the aerosolized dwell time of the disinfecting
agent is 45 minutes to one hour and can produce air and surface viability testing of zero growth. The
process and agent should have a documented history of excellent material compatibility
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o FAM—Fresh Air Makeup, which is the process by which air outside the containment area is brought in
through a filter to help balance the pressure irregularities and provide fresh air to the remediation
workers.
o FRR—Final Remediation Report
o HEPA—High Efficiency Particulate Air sometimes referred to as a High Efficiency Particulate Arrestor.
Generally, a thick pleated filter with a MERV rating above 17.
o HVAC—Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning.
o HVAC Coverage Area—Whether by zoned distribution system or individual unit, that area covered by a
single HVAC air handler. Judgment must be used by the NORMI™ professional to determine the method
used and reasoning behind the definition of an HVAC coverage area on each project.
o IAQ Management Plan—The document prepared by an indoor mold assessor for a client that provides
guidance on how to prevent and control indoor mold growth at a location, also referred to as a Mold
Management Plan.
o ICRA—Infection Control Risk Assessment
o Indoor Mold Growth—mold that exists on an interior surface of a building or in the air that was not
purposely grown or brought into the building and having the potential to affect the indoor air quality.
o Mold Remediation Professional—a person who conducts mold assessment or remediation as defined in
this section and who is licensed, where governing authorities require such, and/or certified by a
nationally recognized certifying agency such as IICRC, NORMI™ and/or ACAC.
o License—any license issued by any state or municipality for the purpose of regulating the mold industry.
o Licensee—an individual licensed by any state or municipality to perform mold assessment, remediation
or work associated with the mold profession.
o MAR—Microbial/Mold Assessment Report. The document prepared by an indoor mold assessor for a
client based on information gained from the onsite mold assessment which interprets the result of said
investigation and draws conclusions regarding mold sanitization or remediation recommendations. This
does not necessarily include a mold remediation protocol which may be produced as a separate
document.
o Microstatic—inhibiting the growth of microbials which products could include the organo siloxane
molecule, chitosan, or other semi-permanent inhibitors.
o Mold—living or dead fungi or related mVOCs, bi-products or parts, including spores, hyphae and
mycotoxins.
o Mold Analysis—the examination of a sample collected during the mold assessment when microscopy is
performed for the purpose of:
 Determining the amount or presence of or identifying the genus and/or species of any living or
dead mold or related parts (including spores and hyphae) present in the sample;
 Growing or attempting to grow fungi for the purposes of paragraph i;
 Identifying or determining the amount or presence of any fungal products, including but not
limited to mycotoxins and fungal volatile organic compounds, present in the sample by
microscopy.
o Mold Assessor—a person who conducts mold assessment as defined in this section and who is, when
required, licensed as a mold assessment professional (CMA).
o Mold Assessment—an inspection, investigation, assessment, taking of samples and/or survey of a
dwelling unit or other structure to provide the owner or occupant with information regarding the
presence, identification, or evaluation of mold that include a mold assessment report and may include
one or more of the following;
 The development of a mold sanitization protocol;
 The development of a mold remediation protocol;
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 The development of a mold and/or IAQ Management plan; and,
 The collection of a mold, bacteria, particulate and mVOC sample(s).
o Mold Screener—a person who takes samples of visible or hidden mold for the purpose of controlling the
sampling process and as a service for the client as further described in the appropriate section.
o Mold Screening—a process of sampling that excludes the writing of a report, the interpretation of
samples or recommendations for resolution of a possible issue.
o MMP—Microbial/Mold Management Plan. The document prepared by an indoor mold assessor for a
client that provides guidance on how to prevent and control indoor mold growth at a location, also
referred to as an IAQ Management Plan.
o Mold Related Activities—the performance of a mold assessment, remediation or related activities,
including the prevention of future mold growth.
o Mold Remediator—a person who conducts mold remediation as defined in this section and who is,
when required, licensed as a mold remediation professional (CMR).
o Mold Remediation—the removal, cleaning, sanitizing, demolition or other treatment, including
preventative activities, of mold or mold-contaminated matter.
o MRP—Microbial/Mold Remediation Protocol. This document, prepared by the mold assessor for the
client, includes, but is not limited to the following processes:
 Provides photograph(s) of the scene of mold remediation prior to remediation;
 Specifies the estimated cost of the project, where feasible,
 Specifies the proposed remediation methods for each area to be remediated, and,
 Establishes the PRV criteria for each area of the mold remediation project.
o MRWP—Mold Remediation Work Plan. This document, prepared by a mold remediator, fulfills all the
requirements of the MRP and provides specific instructions or standard operating procedures for how a
mold remediation project shall be performed.
o mVOC—Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds being produced by actively growth mold growth.
o NAM—Negative Air Machine. This is an AFD when operating inside containment filtering the air and
exhausting to an area outside of containment, thus establishing a negative pressure area. This is a
process, not a machine. The same AFD is also used for air scrubbing.
o NCRSI™–A NORMI professional trained to assess, manage and/or remediate projects for
environmentally sensitized individuals, CIRS patients or others referred to the professional by a medical
physician or clinician.
o PAPR respirator—a powered air-purifying respirator used to safeguard workers against contaminated
environments.
o PPE—Personal Protective Equipment. Items worn on an individual that limit their exposure to mold,
including but not limited to gloves, goggles, respirators and body suits.
o Preventative Activities—actions intended to prevent future indoor mold growth at a remediated area,
including repairing leaks and other sources of water intrusion and/or humidity and, therefore, includes
the NORMI™ Sanitization Protocol.
o Project—mold-related activities at a specific address.
o PRV Report—a document that an indoor mold assessor issues when the indoor mold assessor
determines that a project’s remediation has been successful.
o PRV24K—an air purification device developed by Best Living Systems, LLC to be connected to the AFD
when used as an air scrubber or when used as a NAM discharging into occupied space designed to
reduce airborne particulates and reduce microbial contamination on surfaces.
o Supervise, directly—licensee will follow the specific guideline(s) given by the regulating agency under
whom he is licensed. In the absence of such direction, NORMI™ defines the phrase as to direct and
exercise control over the activities of an individual(s) by being physically present at the job site or, if not
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physically present, accessible by telephone within ten minutes and able to be at the site within one hour
of being contacted.
o Visible—exposed to view; capable of being seen with the naked eye. NOTE: Mold professionals
understand that hidden mold outlies the perimeter of visible mold and may make determination
regarding sanitization or remediation based on their own expertise and experience.

Mold sampling involves collecting samples from various surfaces and air in an indoor environment to assess the presence and concentration of mold spores.

Mold sampling helps identify the types and levels of mold present in a space, aiding in assessing the extent of contamination and guiding appropriate remediation and sanitization efforts.

There are different methods, including air sampling (collecting airborne spores), surface sampling (swabbing or tape-lifting from surfaces), and bulk sampling (collecting pieces of materials with visible mold growth).

Mold sampling is typically done when there’s visible mold growth, a musty odor, or occupants experience health issues potentially related to mold exposure. It’s also conducted after mold remediation to verify effectiveness.

While DIY mold test kits are available, professional mold inspectors are recommended for accurate and reliable results. They have the expertise to interpret findings and recommend appropriate actions.

Mold samples can reveal the types of mold present, their concentration, and potentially help identify the source of the moisture issue causing mold growth.

Indoor air quality testing is broader and can include assessments for various pollutants, while mold sampling specifically targets mold spores present in the air or on surfaces.

Factors include the sampling method used, the location of samples, the time of sampling, and the environmental conditions (humidity, airflow) during sampling.

No, mold sampling is just one component. A comprehensive assessment includes visual inspection, moisture source identification, assessing occupant complaints, and considering the building’s history to form a complete picture.

Mold is a type of fungus that grows in multicellular structures called hyphae. It reproduces by creating spores, which are tiny, lightweight particles that can be carried through the air.

Mold can release spores and mycotoxins that, when inhaled or come into contact with skin, can cause health issues such as allergies, respiratory problems, and irritation.

Mold thrives in damp and humid environments. Common areas for mold growth include bathrooms, basements, attics, and places with water leaks or poor ventilation.

Mold spores can become airborne and contribute to poor indoor air quality. Inhaling these spores can lead to various health problems, especially for individuals with allergies or respiratory conditions.

Preventing mold involves controlling moisture levels. This includes promptly fixing leaks, improving ventilation, using dehumidifiers, and ensuring proper insulation.

“Black mold” usually refers to Stachybotrys chartarum. While it can produce mycotoxins, all molds have the potential to cause health issues. The focus should be on preventing and addressing mold growth, regardless of the species.

Mold removal involves identifying and fixing the moisture source, isolating the contaminated area, using appropriate personal protective equipment, and physically removing the mold through cleaning and sometimes removing affected materials.

A mold inspection can be important, especially if there are signs of water damage or mold growth. It can help identify potential problems and guide necessary remediation efforts.

While there are guidelines for mold remediation, such as those provided by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)  the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), and NORMI™ there are no federal standards for mold levels in indoor environments.

Yes, mold can grow in commercial properties, potentially affecting employee health and the structural integrity of the building. Regular inspections, maintenance, and addressing water issues promptly are crucial for preventing mold growth.

Good IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) in commercial spaces is essential for employee health, well-being, and productivity. It can also impact the reputation of a business and compliance with regulations.

Outdoor pollutants can enter buildings through ventilation systems or openings. Poor outdoor air quality, especially in urban areas or near industrial sites, can significantly impact indoor air quality.

HVAC systems control temperature, humidity, and ventilation. Properly designed and maintained systems can help improve IAQ by circulating and filtering the air, reducing pollutants and maintaining comfortable conditions.

Yes, various organizations, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), provide guidelines and standards for acceptable IAQ levels.

Strategies include regular HVAC maintenance, proper ventilation, controlling humidity levels, using air purifiers, eliminating or reducing indoor pollution sources, and ensuring proper building design to minimize pollutants.

IAQ assessment involves testing for pollutants, measuring temperature and humidity, evaluating ventilation systems, and conducting occupant surveys. Techniques such as air sampling, surface sampling, and sensor monitoring are used.

Signs of poor IAQ include persistent odors, mold growth, excessive humidity, visible dust or particulates, frequent allergic reactions, and discomfort among occupants.

Poor IAQ can lead to various health issues, including allergies, asthma, respiratory infections, headaches, fatigue, and even long-term complications. It can be especially problematic for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

Common indoor air pollutants include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mold spores, pollen, dust mites, pet dander, tobacco smoke, radon, and various chemicals from cleaning products and furnishings.

IAQ refers to the quality of air within buildings and structures, especially concerning the health and comfort of occupants. It encompasses factors like air pollutants, temperature, humidity, and ventilation.

The NORMIPro Locator will allow you to search for a NORMIPro by Zip code, State, Certification, Company Name, and More.  To locate a NORMIPro, please visit www.NORMIPro.com .

NORMI™ Accreditation (Reciprocity/Grandfather)
If you are currently working in the mold industry and certified by a nationally recognized organization or State licensed (in a State that requires licensing for mold professionals), NORMI™ may reciprocate and make you a certified member as either a CMA (NORMI™ Certified Mold Assessor), CMR (NORMI™ Certified Mold Remediator) or CMW (NORMI™ Certified Mold Worker) based on information you provide through this application process.
The process is easy and once reviewed by our Compliance Division, you will be designated by the NORMI™ Board of Directors as an interim member and listed on our website for the world to see. You may begin immediately marketing yourself as a certified ACTIVE NORMI™ Member, will be assigned a NORMI™ ID number and given the opportunity to take advantage of all the ACTIVE Member benefits available (see Join.NORMI™.org for benefit details).

Because NORMI™ has a unique solution-based, wholistic approach to IAQ/Mold issues and their resolution, it is recommended that you take a NORMI™ approved class on IAQ/Mold Inspection, Assessment, or Remediation as soon as possible (classes available at www.BestTrainingSchool.com). Accreditation requires your taking a FREE online training segment on NORMI™ Professional Practices (our insurable best practices document) which is available to you through the ACTIVE Member back office once you have activated your membership.

The accreditation program benefits you in the following ways:

1. Full access to all FREE ACTIVE Member benefits.
2. Up-to-date trainings in the latest technologies through LIVE ONLINE Continuing Education, available for FREE every week,
3. Some trainings on Tuesday evenings qualify for FREE CEUs for the State of Florida licensing requirement as well as meeting the continuing education requirements for other affiliated or recognized organizations
4. The ability to market yourself for FREE through the www.NORMI™ Pro.com website including a website program personally tailored to your company and,
5. A FREE support system unsurpassed in the industry including LIVE Help, a toll free Support Line, and email support.  We also have a Field Support Text line and the NORMIPro Consulting Service Line.

To become accredited, you will do the following:

1. Complete the application for whichever specific NORMI™ Certification your wish,
2. Active your membership at Join.NORMI™.org (can be incorporated in the application process as shown on application),
3. eMail or FAX application with appropriate documentation.

NOTE: Fees for accreditation are processed AFTER you have been accredited which process takes approximately five (5) business days from receipt of your completed paperwork and documentation. Once accredited you may download the NORMI™ Logo Package from the member section and begin marketing your business as NORMI™ Certified. Congratulations on this savvy business decision.

Download CMA Application

Download CMR Application

Download CMW Application

Yes, NORMI^™ requires 7 hours of continuing education each year (By August 31st) and offers 48 opportunities a year to gain one (1) hours of CEU through FREE online training to its ACTIVE Members. See www.Join.NORMI.org for details