What is the minimum personal protection recommended for a small mold cleanup?

The minimum personal protection recommended for a small mold cleanup includes an N95 respirator and gloves because this combination effectively mitigates the risks associated with mold exposure. The N95 respirator is designed to filter out airborne particles, including mold spores, which can be harmful when inhaled. This type of respirator ensures that the individual performing the cleanup is protected from inhaling spores that can lead to respiratory issues or allergic reactions.

Additionally, gloves are vital to protect the skin from coming into direct contact with mold, which can also cause allergic reactions, skin irritations, or other health issues. Wearing gloves during mold cleanup helps to prevent the transfer of mold spores to other surfaces and minimizes the risk of skin exposure.

While goggles may seem necessary, they do not provide adequate coverage for respiratory protection, nor do they address skin contact risks, which the combination of an N95 respirator and gloves adequately addresses. In contrast, a full-body protective suit is generally reserved for more extensive or hazardous mold remediation situations, rather than small cleanups, where the risks can be effectively managed with the recommended gear.