Which of the following practices is important for a mold assessor's safety?

Using respiratory protection is crucial for a mold assessor's safety due to the potential health risks associated with mold exposure. Mold spores can become airborne and inhaling them can lead to respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and exacerbation of pre-existing health conditions, particularly for those with asthma or compromised immune systems.

Respiratory masks designed to filter out small particles, including mold spores, are essential when assessing environments where mold may be present. This protective measure helps to minimize the inhalation of potentially harmful spores and mycotoxins, thereby safeguarding the assessor’s health during inspections or remediation activities.

The other options do not contribute effectively to an assessor’s safety. For instance, wearing casual clothes might not provide any form of protection against contaminants, and working without gloves increases the risk of skin contact with mold spores, which can cause irritation or infection. While drinking water frequently is important for hydration, it does not specifically address the health risks associated with mold exposure.