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2024 Recap: NORMI™ USA Coast to Coast2024 Recap: USA Coast to Coast – Hurricanes, Floods, Droughts, and the Effects on the Mold Industry
As we reflect on the year 2024, the United States faced extreme weather events that left lasting impacts on communities, infrastructure, and industries across the country. From hurricanes battering the coasts to historic flooding, widespread droughts, and persistent heatwaves, the environmental conditions in 2024 posed challenges, particularly for industries like mold and microbial assessment and remediation. These extreme events not only affected lives but also reshaped the landscape for mold-related issues and the methods used to address them.
NORMI™: Meeting the Needs of the Mold Industry
In the face of these challenges, NORMI™ (National Organization of Remediators and Microbial Inspectors) played a pivotal role in the microbial assessment and remediation industry. Through its comprehensive training and certification programs, NORMI™ provided mold professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to meet growing demands in post-disaster environments.
NORMI™ certifications are recognized for their emphasis on proper microbial assessment and remediation protocols, ensuring that professionals are equipped to handle the complexities of microbial contamination resulting from hurricanes, floods, and other extreme weather events. Importantly, NORMI™ training meets state requirements for licensure in states where mold assessment and remediation are regulated, solidifying its reputation as a leader in industry compliance and expertise.
Specialized Training for Sensitized Individuals
NORMI™ also recognizes the unique challenges faced by sensitized individuals – those with heightened mold sensitivities or compromised immune systems. Through specialized remediation training, NORMI™ professionals are equipped to address mold concerns in environments where the health of occupants is a top priority. This advanced training focuses on ensuring cleaner, breathable air, effective microbial removal, and tailored solutions for those with severe mold sensitivities, making homes and businesses safer for all occupants.
Health departments in several states recommend utilizing NORMI™-trained mold remediators and assessors due to their adherence to best practices and industry standards. NORMI™’s reputation even received a high-profile endorsement from Dr. Oz, who referred to the organization as the "Good Guys" on his TV show, further reinforcing its credibility and consumer trust.
Hurricanes and Their Far-Reaching Impact
The year 2024 saw a surge in hurricane activity, with multiple powerful storms making landfall across the Gulf Coast, Southeast, and Atlantic regions. Hurricanes like Hurricane Laura and Hurricane Matthew left a trail of destruction, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread flooding. In addition to the immediate devastation, these hurricanes created the perfect breeding ground for mold infestations. As homes and businesses remained flooded for days or even weeks, the high humidity, water accumulation, and lack of proper ventilation led to rapid microbial growth.
Mold thrives in wet, dark environments, and in 2024, the aftermath of hurricanes saw an uptick in calls to mold remediation professionals. Floodwater-driven mold growth meant that many households and businesses in affected areas experienced long-term health risks, from respiratory issues to allergic reactions, while also grappling with the costly task of mold remediation. This created a heightened demand for NORMI™-trained professionals who could conduct proactive mold/microbial assessments and provide effective remediation strategies.
The Growing Problem of Flooding
Flooding in 2024 wasn’t confined to hurricane-prone regions alone. Increased rainfall across the country, particularly in the Midwest, led to severe flooding along major rivers like the Mississippi and Missouri. This persistent flooding affected both urban and rural areas, with large swathes of land submerged for prolonged periods. Once the waters receded, the consequences of this prolonged moisture were devastating for homes and commercial properties.
Floodwaters, which often bring debris, sewage, and contaminants, created hazardous conditions for mold growth. Properties required thorough mold assessments, with specialized remediation teams, including NORMI™-certified professionals, having to deal with materials like insulation and drywall contaminated by floodwaters. The demand for highly skilled professionals who understood flood-driven microbial contamination highlighted the importance of NORMI™’s robust training programs.
Droughts and Heatwaves: Unseen Mold Risks
While the devastating effects of hurricanes and floods grabbed headlines, 2024 was also marked by extreme droughts and heatwaves, especially in the western United States. Areas like California, Nevada, and Arizona experienced severe droughts, with water scarcity becoming a pressing issue.
Buildings in drought-affected regions experienced unique mold risks. Water damage from broken pipes or faulty HVAC systems, combined with extreme temperatures, led to condensation issues in poorly ventilated areas. This hidden moisture triggered mold development in unseen spaces, requiring advanced mold assessment methods and remediation techniques provided by NORMI™-trained professionals.
Additionally, wildfires exacerbated the problem. Smoke particles and pollutants interacted with indoor humidity levels, creating conditions conducive to mold growth in properties exposed to fire damage. NORMI™-trained professionals addressed these emerging challenges by implementing strategies for indoor air quality improvement and mold prevention.
The Mold Industry: Response and Remediation Strategies in 2024
The growing frequency and intensity of these climate-driven events made mold assessment and remediation an essential service throughout the year. The mold industry in 2024 faced several key challenges but also opportunities, as the demand for professional remediation services soared. NORMI™ played a critical role in meeting these challenges:
Expanded Use of Technology: NORMI™ training emphasized the use of advanced tools like infrared cameras, moisture meters, and air quality testing equipment, allowing professionals to pinpoint microbial concerns accurately.
Environmental Sustainability: NORMI™-certified remediators adopted eco-friendly solutions and green remediation practices, aligning with broader trends in sustainability and climate resilience.
Post-Storm Services: The aftermath of storms and floods created a surge in demand for mold inspection and remediation services. NORMI™’s certified professionals were uniquely prepared to respond quickly and effectively. This also included efforts from the NORMIPro™ Environmental TASC Force. (The ETF is a Not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) public Charity).
Health-Focused Remediation: NORMI™ emphasized health-first strategies, ensuring safer environments for all, especially sensitized individuals. Their specialized training addressed the increasing health risks associated with mold exposure.
Conclusion
Looking back at 2024, it’s clear that extreme weather events – from hurricanes to floods to droughts – reshaped the mold assessment and remediation industries. These events highlighted the importance of having skilled, certified professionals to address mold growth and contamination challenges. NORMI™’s training and certifications provided the expertise necessary to meet these growing demands, ensuring that homes and businesses remained safer, cleaner, and healthier.
As climate change continues to influence the frequency and severity of these events, the mold industry will rely even more heavily on organizations like NORMI™ to provide innovative, health-focused, and sustainable solutions in the face of future environmental challenges. [...]
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Why Choose a NORMI™ Trained Professional?NORMI™ members are trained in the latest mold detection, abatement and removal techniques.
As a client, you have the ability to take the corrective steps toward solving indoor air quality issues beginning with the inspection, evaluation, and assessment process.
Once the problem has been correctly assessed, the Certified IAQ/Microbial Inspector will be able to write an understandable and easy to follow protocol for the sanitization or remediation of the problem based on legitimate and accurate IAQ Lab Testing.
Should you decide to use a NORMI™ Certified Remediator or the services of a NORMI™ Affiliate Member, you can have confidence that the business partner you select has agreed to and follows our strict CODE of ETHICS.
You can be confident that our listed members are fully trained and qualified to assess your indoor air quality issues and resolve them thoroughly for the health of you and your family.
“Better Trained And That’s Good For You, The Consumer”
Dr Oz Healthy Home Investigation [...]
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California Lists NORMI™ as a resource for Experienced Mold ProfessionalsThe California Department of Public Health lists NORMI™ as a resource for hiring Experienced Mold Professionals. (Assessors and Remediators)
How do I find someone to inspect my home and locate the source of the mold or moisture problem?An experienced mold and moisture inspector is trained to identify the source of the mold or moisture problems, generally without measuring mold levels. There are no California regulations for mold inspectors. We cannot recommend any company in particular. Mold consultants can be found through professional associations such as the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA) and American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). Mold inspectors may also be found through the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI) and the National Association of Mold Remediators and Inspectors (NAMRI). These organizations are listed here strictly for informational purposes and listing them does not imply CDPH endorsement.
How do I identify a licensed contractor or experienced professional who can fix the mold and moisture problems in my home?Some licensed contractors have expertise in dealing with mold and moisture problems. There are no California regulations for licensing mold remediators. Mold remediators can be certified by national organizations such as the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI), National Association of Mold Remediators and Inspectors (NAMRI), and Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration (IICRC). These organizations are listed here strictly for informational purposes and listing them does not imply CDPH endorsement. The California State Licensing Board (CSLB) has information on currently licensed contractors in the state.
The full text can be read at https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/cls/dehl/ehl/Pages/AQS/Frequently-Asked-Questions-about-Mold.aspx [...]
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Illinois Mold Training RequirementStarting Jan 2025, Illinois will be requiring evidence of an active third-party certification.
NORMI's Next CMACMR Class
Dec 10th -12th Online Live or Onsite Tampa Florida
$799.00 Holiday Special
https://www.besttrainingschool.com/cgi-bin/liveonline2db.cgi?ClassNumber=CMACMR-241210-E-001#reg-now
NORMI's Live training classes have been training in the industry for over 20 years. We are here for you offering Live online classes, Membership and business advertising on our NORMI PRO Locator,
Contact us for more information
Brenda Lewis – BrendaL@normi.com – 989-657-3756
Jayme Crean – JaymeC@normi.com – 989-916-6264
AN ACT concerning health.
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Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois,
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represented in the General Assembly:
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Section 5. The Mold Remediation Registration Act is
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amended by changing Sections 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 and by
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adding Section 16 as follows:
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(410 ILCS 105/5)
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Sec. 5. Findings. The General Assembly finds that:
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(1) Excessive indoor dampness in buildings is a
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widespread problem that warrants action at the local,
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State, and national levels.
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(2) Because of the public's concern about the possible
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public health effects of exposure to mold in buildings, as
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well as the effects on workers performing remediation
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work, and the costs of remediation for the property owner,
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there is a need to identify parties performing mold
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remediation in the State.
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(3) Because there is a need to reduce moisture that
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fosters mold formation in buildings, the State should
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review current State building codes to ensure that they do
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not foster mold.
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(4) Parties providing mold remediation services in
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residential, public, and commercial buildings in Illinois
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should be required to register with the State and provide
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proof of financial responsibility.
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(5) Laboratories performing tests to confirm mold
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contamination in buildings should be certified by the
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American Industrial Hygiene Association using nationally
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recognized accreditation standards set under the
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Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation
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Program.
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(6) It is imperative that the citizens of Illinois are
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aware of the dangers of mold and the need for proper
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assessment and remediation of indoor environments affected
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by mold.
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(Source: P.A. 95-456, eff. 1-1-08.)
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(410 ILCS 105/10)
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Sec. 10. Definitions. As used in this Act:
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"Department" means the Department of Public Health.
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"Mold" means any form of multicellular fungi found in
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water-damaged indoor environments or water-damaged building
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materials. "Mold" includes Cladosporium, Penicillium,
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Alternaria, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Trichoderma, Memnoniella,
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Mucor, and Stachybotrys chartarum.
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"Mold remediation" means the removal, cleaning,
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sanitizing, demolition, or other treatment, including
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preventive activities, of mold or mold-containment matter in
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buildings.
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"Preventative activities" include those intended to
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prevent future mold contamination of a remediated area,
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including applying biocides or anti-microbial compounds.
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"Third-party certification" means a mold remediation
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certification offered by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning
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and Restoration Certification or its successor; the National
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Organization of Remediators and Microbial Inspectors or its
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successor; or any other national nonprofit organization that
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has been approved by the Department.
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(Source: P.A. 95-456, eff. 1-1-08.)
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(410 ILCS 105/15)
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Sec. 15. Reporting requirement. The Department must report
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to the Environment and Energy Committees of the House of
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Representatives and the Senate, on an annual basis, concerning
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the implementation of any federal regulations or State rules
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that establish:
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(1) scientific evidence concerning any health effects
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associated with fungi, bacteria, and their byproducts in
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indoor environments including any indoor air quality
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standard; and
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(2) standards for the training, certification, and
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licensing of parties providing mold remediation services
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in residential, public, and commercial buildings.
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(Source: P.A. 95-456, eff. 1-1-08.) [...]
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