The state of Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) issued a memo dated September 15, 2004 after the recent hurricanes to all healthcare facilities in the state of Florida stating that AHCA was concerned that "undesired water intrusion for extended periods of time, with or without air conditioning generates conditions inside the facility that may erode indoor air quality and produce an environment that may be detrimental to patients, residents ands health care providers from exposure to mold."
 
The Agency for Health Care Administration requests further stated that "all licensed healthcare facilities that have had water intrusion, to enact the following basic procedures to ensure indoor air quality will not adversely affect the environment of care."  A summary of the procedures includes:
 
     * Retain a qualified indoor air quality (IAQ) consultant e.g. degreed microbiologist, CIH or trained IAQ remedial specialist
 
     * Complete a comprehensive IAQ survey of the facility.  Sampling should be sent to a microbiology laboratory accredited by the American Industrial Hygiene Association for analysis
 
     * The professional consultant shall prepare a report the methods of evaluation, findings, results of laboratory analysis, conclusions and recommendations.
 
     * Thoroughly dry all parts of the building
 
     * Wetted building materials determined to exhibit mold should be abated in accordance to industry recognized guidelines.
 
     * In remediated facilities an Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) shall be prepared.
 
     * Once the remedial work has been completed the qualified consultant shall provide a final post remediation clearance report indicating the facility is safe for occupancy.
 
Pure Air Control Services www.pureaircontrols.com and its accredited microbiology laboratory, EDLab www.EDLab.org is ready and prepared to help you in your assessment and maintain good IAQ in your facility. 
 
You can reach Pure Air Control Services at 1-800-422-7873 ext 802 for a free phone consultation or a copy of the AHCA memo.
 

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Pure Air Control Services
800-422-7873