http://labor.ny.gov/formsdocs/wp/shformsandpublications.shtm. They do not need to be
based in New York and the courses do not have to be given in New York. If a training provider
wants to compare their mold curriculum with NYSDOL's recommended mold course outline
check out: http://labor.ny.gov/workerprotection/safetyhealth/mold/mold-program.shtm.
IAQA Government Affairs did ask whether teaching mold remediation based on the IICRC S520
would be acceptable, and the response was that while such a training provider still needs to
compare their course to the New York model, a well taught course on IICRC S520 would be
"fine" and more than satisfy the basic requirements. At the request of a member, we also
asked about the length of time the evaluation process for training providers is expected to take.
While it is taking longer with the initial applicants as the kinks in the process are worked out, it
is expected the evaluation process should only take about a week. Currently there are about a
half-dozen applications submitted, and roughly two-thirds are from New York State. It is
NYSDOL's goal to have training providers approved and offering licensing classes by November
1, 2015 (and hopefully a little sooner).
There were also questions from our members about the degree to which training providers
must have mold experience. We asked NYSDOL, and the answer is the Agency requires
demonstrable evidence that the instructors have knowledge of mold remediation and
experience teaching the subject. We also asked about the exam for licensure. NYSDOL
confirmed that at present the exam will have to meet NYSDOL requirements and it will be given
by the training provider onsite at the conclusion of the course of instruction.
[Cole Stanton is the Coordinator for NYS Mold Licensing, and Fred Schauf is a Special Advisor,
and both contributed this update.]
CALIFORNIA
Presently, there are two bills in California that have been reviewed by the IAQA Government
Affairs Committee. Assembly Bill 1126 concerns the posting of inspection reports for heating,
ventilation, and air conditioning in schools. This bill does not appear to be a concern for the
IAQA.
Senate Bill 655, presented by Senator Holly J. Mitchell representing the 30
th
district, is a bill that
will include mold in the "lack of proper sanitation" required for properties occupied by tenants
in the housing standards' health and safety code. The bill seeks to make the lack of proper
sanitation a crime, including mold growth. In the bill, mold is given a formal definition and non-
negligible causes for mold growth, including inadequate housekeeping and ventilation are
explored. Recent revisions of SB 655 require that mold must be visible to be considered in the
lack of sanitation.
