What should a mold assessor do first when arriving at a new site?

When a mold assessor arrives at a new site, conducting a visual inspection of the area is essential as the first step. This inspection allows the assessor to identify visible signs of mold growth, water damage, and conditions that may contribute to mold development, such as high humidity or inadequate ventilation. A thorough visual inspection helps define the scope of the assessment, guiding the decision on whether air quality testing, sampling, or further investigation is needed. It serves as the foundation for understanding the overall environment and is crucial for making informed decisions regarding remediation strategies.

Taking air quality measurements, discussing findings with the client, or collecting samples are important steps, but they should come after the initial inspection. The visual assessment helps prioritize these actions based on what is observed on-site and ensures that any further investigations are relevant to the specific conditions present.