How to Perform an ERMI Test

WHAT IS THE ERMI TEST?

The ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) test measures the amount and types of mold in a building. It involves collecting dust samples, analyzing them in a lab, and calculating an ERMI value. The ERMI value indicates the level of mold compared to other buildings.

By assessing mold levels with the ERMI test, WE can integrate mold exposure into your overall treatment strategies. Plus, the ERMI can help identify potential mold problems in advance, allowing for preventive measures or interventions to mitigate mold exposure and minimize health risks.

Unlike other types of mold testing that usually require a mold inspector, the ERMI test can be conducted by YOU! The only task that needs to be performed is collecting dust samples.

HOW TO PERFORM AN ERMI:

Use the instructions from your ERMI kit - you can purchase your ERMI test here.

1) Deep clean your home 4-6 weeks in advance. This will allow us a more accurate picture of the health of your home. So, deep clean all surfaces, under furniture, ceiling fans, vents, etc.

2) To ensure accurate results, please use only the provided dust cloth from the sampling kit. When collecting samples, it is important to minimize contact with the cloth by wearing the disposable gloves included in the kit.

3) Swipe at least 10 areas within the home or workplace you wish to test. Remember to wipe in a single direction only and avoid scrubbing back and forth or using a circular motion.

4) Please swipe the provided dust cloth on various surfaces within your home or office to gather dust from different areas. Suitable areas can include tops of interior door frames, entertainment centers, shelves, dressers, nightstands, among others. The goal is to collect a representative sample from the entire space for a comprehensive analysis. However, do not sample bathrooms, laundry rooms, or kitchens.

It's important to note that you should not sample directly from visible mold sources, such as mold spots on walls. Plus, avoid sampling areas that are rusty, visibly dusty from clay, or covered in drywall dust resulting from construction, repairs, or new builds.

Steer clear of areas near stoves, heaters, or other high heat sources as samples from these areas can interfere with the testing process.

Do NOT swab near your HVAC vent or any vent with forced air. Although your other instructions from Envirobiomics say it is suitable, we do not recommend this.

5) Before the test, ensure that the indoor area being tested is undisturbed for at least 48 hours. This allows the mold spores to settle and provides a more accurate representation of the mold levels. So, make sure windows are closed and air purifiers have been off for 48 hours prior to the test.

Plus, you will ONLY want to get dust samples from places that have 4-6 week old dust.

6) Once you have swiped at least 10 areas, carefully fold the Swiffer cloth containing the collected dust. Place the folded cloth inside the provided Ziploc bag and securely zip it closed. It is important to ensure that the cloth is visibly dirty, indicating a change in color from white to gray, as this ensures an adequate sample for testing. If the cloth does not appear visibly dirty, continue swiping in additional areas until the cloth shows sufficient dirt accumulation.

To identify the sample easily, please write your full name on the Ziploc bag before sealing it. This helps ensure proper identification during the testing process.

7) Please fill out the provided Chain of Custody (CoC) form included in the kit. Once the form is completed, return both the sample and the completed Chain of Custody (CoC) document.

WHAT TO DO AFTER YOU SEND OUT YOUR ERMI TEST:

After you send out your ERMI test, your results will be sent to your practitioner and you through Practice Better. You and your practitioner will go over your ERMI test results to answer your questions and/or create a treatment plan!