The invisible threat: What are Mycotoxins and why do they matter in restoration work?…
Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain types of moulds, including Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys.
Invisible to the naked eye, these toxins are embedded in spores and hyphal fragments and can pose significant health risks—ranging from allergic reactions and respiratory issues to immune suppression and long-term chronic illness.
Why They Matter in Restoration Work
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Hidden exposure risk: Unlike visible mould growth, mycotoxins can linger in aerosolised spores and fragments long after surface cleaning. This makes comprehensive remediation essential.
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Health effects: Exposure can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or accidental ingestion. Health impacts may include respiratory symptoms, skin irritation, immune system stress, and even neurological effects in severe cases.
New Zealand Guidelines & Evidence
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ESR/BRANZ (2019): Biocides are not a guaranteed solution—physical removal of contaminated building materials remains the most effective approach. Cleaning alone is often insufficient.
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BRANZ recommendations: For small-scale mould contamination, isolate the area, wear appropriate PPE (e.g., P1 respirator), and discard porous materials. Hard surfaces should be cleaned with detergent and bleach, then HEPA-vacuumed to remove residues.
Applying International Best Practice in a New Zealand Context
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Prioritise removal over treatment: Mould fragments and dead spores may still release mycotoxins even after biocide treatment. Physical removal is the gold standard.
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Containment protocols: Set up sealed work zones with negative air pressure and HEPA filtration, following guidelines like those in IICRC S520 and BRANZ publications.
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Material handling:
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Porous items (e.g., carpet, insulation, untreated timber): remove and dispose of safely.
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Non-porous surfaces: clean, rinse, dry thoroughly, then HEPA-vacuum.
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Moisture control: Prevent future growth by fixing leaks, ventilating properly, and using dehumidifiers where needed.
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Waste disposal: Follow local council requirements for safe containment and disposal of mould-affected materials.
Considerations for New Zealand’s Climate and Building Stock
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High humidity risk: Many regions across New Zealand—particularly coastal and inland areas with poor ventilation—face elevated mould and mycotoxin risks.
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Timber-framed buildings: Common in New Zealand, these can harbour hidden contamination if moisture intrusion isn’t promptly addressed.
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Compliance and documentation: Restoration professionals must stay current with local regulations and be able to document their methods clearly for property managers, insurers, and building inspectors.
Practical Action Steps for NZ Restoration Professionals
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Site assessment: Evaluate moisture levels, ventilation, and extent of visible mould.
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Establish containment: Use plastic sheeting, negative air pressure units, and HEPA air scrubbers to prevent cross-contamination.
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Remove affected materials: Prioritise safe disposal of contaminated porous items.
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Decontaminate and dry: Use appropriate cleaning protocols (Advanced Filtration, Fogging, Comprehensive Dust Removal), followed by HEPA vacuuming and moisture control measures.
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Monitor conditions: Use moisture meters and thermal imaging where appropriate to detect hidden dampness.
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Educate property owners: Raise awareness of ventilation, insulation, and future moisture prevention.
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Keep records: Document actions taken, materials removed, and environmental readings for accountability and compliance.
Recommendations for the NZ Restoration Industry
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Review your protocols to ensure they align with IICRC, ESR and BRANZ guidance.
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Invest in professional equipment like HEPA vacuums, containment sheeting, and dehumidifiers.
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Establish partnerships with local environmental testing labs for air and surface sampling when needed.
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Prioritise client communication: Set expectations, share safety information, and outline the full remediation process clearly.
Summary
Mycotoxins are an invisible but critical hazard for the restoration industry in New Zealand. With no silver-bullet biocide solution, our focus must be on safe, thorough removal of contaminated materials, effective containment, and moisture control.
By applying both New Zealand-specific and international best practices—and investing in up-to-date training—restoration professionals can deliver safer outcomes, meet regulatory expectations, and build trust in this high-risk area of work.
Training & Upskilling for Mycotoxin and Mould Remediation
As the understanding of mycotoxins grows, so too does the need for formal education in their safe and effective management.
Restoration professionals across New Zealand are encouraged to: 
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Undertake certified mould remediation training that includes modules on mycotoxins, PPE, containment, and removal techniques.
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Keep up to date with evolving best practices, including guidance from ESR, BRANZ, and IICRC standards.
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Train field teams in safe handling, disposal, and post-remediation verification to minimise health risks and ensure compliance.
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Explore training options: Cleaning Systems Ltd delivers both IICRC Certification and NZ-based practical education tailored to the unique demands of our environment and housing stock.
(click images for course details)
