Mold

OSU Housing and Residential Life’s number one goal is the safety of our residents. This includes treating any report or suspicion of mold as an emergency. In partnership with OSU Facilities Management (OSUFM) and OSU Environmental Health and Safety (OSUEHS), a robust protocol has been established, following industry’s best practices.  

 

If a work order with suspicion of mold is received, these steps are followed: 

 

Maintenance 

• OSU Facilities Management (OSUFM) responds to the room/unit. Based on their findings, the following steps may be taken. 
• An air scrubber or Synexis machine will be installed in your living space. This must be always plugged in and running throughout the process outlined below.  
• OSU Facilities Management technicians (and/or contractors) will complete all necessary repairs, including taking photos. This work could take several days depending on the work needed.  

Cleaning as recommended 

• After maintenance has been completed, ABM Housekeeping, OSU’s custodial contractor, will clean the space.  

• Cleaning by ABM may involve multiple crews over multiple days to allow for proper drying.  

• ABM will perform these steps according to protocol provided by OSU Environmental Health and Safety.  

Testing as recommended 

• OSU Environmental Health and Safety will determine if an air quality test is needed and will schedule and perform that test. Results can take five or more workdays to be received. 

• If any additional work is required after testing, you will be notified.  

What Can Residents Do  

There are steps residents can take to keep living spaces comfortable and safe at any time of year:  

• Thermostat should be set to AUTO and temperatures between 68 and 75 degrees year-round, regardless whether if thermostat is set to COOL or HEAT.  
• Run the bathroom exhaust fan when taking a shower (if installed) or using appliances that may produce steam. 
• If you have a kitchen, run the exhaust fan while cooking. 
• Keep all windows and doors closed and secure. 
• Don’t leave wet towels, clothing, or shoes on the floor.  
• Maintain neat and clean living spaces, including storing food in containers.  
• Empty trash and recycling often.