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Air Sampling for Mold (Mould) with Mycometer Certified Methods

Applications of Air Sampling for Mold

Air sampling for mold is used in a variety of building investigations and environmental assessments. Mycometer’s certified methods provide reliable, reproducible results for:

  • Discovering a mold source – using the Fungal to Allergen Index (FAI)
  • Post-Remediation Verification (PRV) – confirming whether a room has been successfully cleaned, with Mycometer Air Fungi (MAF) or Mycometer Air Allergen (MAA)
  • Determining potential exposure to mold – with MAF
  • Determining potential exposure to total allergens – with MAA

Discovering a Mold Source with the FAI Method

Naturally occurring mold is present in almost all indoor environments, alongside pollen, dander, dust mites, and other biological material. Research shows that in non-problem buildings, mold typically makes up around 10% of total allergens (median value).

If mold levels rise significantly (e.g., 35% of total allergens), this usually indicates a hidden mold source within the room, the building structure, or an adjacent area.

The FAI method (Fungal to Allergen Index):

  • Determines the percentage of mold relative to total allergens.
  • Identifies whether a room is impacted by a mold source.
  • Provides precise measures of both mold and total allergen levels.
  • Results are used to assess the potential health risks of exposure.

To perform FAI testing, two simultaneous air samples are taken:

  • One for mold quantification
  • One for total allergen measurement (including mold)

Post-Remediation Verification (PRV)

After remediation or cleaning, air sampling for mold (mould) can verify whether the environment has been restored to safe levels:

  • Use MAF if the primary concern is mold.
  • Use MAA if the overall cleanliness and total allergen levels are relevant.

Determining Exposure Levels

  • Mold exposure – assessed with Mycometer Air Fungi (MAF).
  • Total allergen exposure – assessed with Mycometer Air Allergen (MAA).

These results help evaluate potential health risks and ensure compliance with environmental standards.

How to Sample: The Mycometer Air Protocol

Mycometer has developed a standardized protocol for activated air sampling for mold, ensuring representative and reproducible results.

Key features of the protocol:

  • A small handheld blower is used to resuspend settled fungal spores into the air.
  • Sampling time: always 10 minutes.
  • Flow rate interval: 10–25 LPM (sample volume 100–250 L).

Learn more about the required air sampling equipment.