How to Collect Samples and Test for Mold or Bacteria

Start testing for mold by collecting tape samples

The quality of laboratory results is as good as the quality of the sample. The purpose of the investigation will determine the type of sample that is taken. It is not enough to stress the importance of getting accurate results. The results of tests can make a difference in people’s lives.

Tip. Tip. Always aim to obtain the most representative sample.

This section explains how to safely collect Mold sampling in Thibodaux.

Use clear scotch tap to cut 2-3 inches. Avoid touching the sticky side of the tape by keeping the tape at the edges
Place the tape on the surface to be tested for mold growth.
Take the tape off the surface and hold it by the edges.
Sticky side of tape to ziplock bag interior; don’t fold tape
Place the sample in a bag, and label it . Only one sample is allowed per bag.
Send us the completed chain of custody form along with your samples.

How to Collect Bulk Samples For Mold Testing

Wear suitable gloves
You should cut a small area (approximately 4 inches) from the suspect material (e.g. carpet, wallpaper, or wood); be careful not to disturb the mold
Place the sample in a clear plastic bag (e.g ziplock)
Label the sample with the appropriate label and close the bag
Send us the completed chain of custody form along with your samples.

How to Collect Swab Samples For Mold and Bacteria Testing

For wet surfaces, dry swabs should be used. Wet swabs can be used for dry surfaces.

Wear suitable gloves
Remove the swab from the tube
Use a swab to wipe the surface. Roll the swab gently back and forth. To determine the extent of mold or bacteria present on the test surface, you can use a swab to measure it (for example 100 square centimeters).
After you have swabbed, place the swab into the tube. Seal the cap and label the sample.
Send us the completed chain of custody form along with your samples.

How to Collect Air Samples (Non Culture) for Testing Airborne Molds

You can use a variety of sampling cassettes. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also ensure that the pump is calibrated at the correct flow rate for each cassette type.

How to Collect Air Samples for Culture Analysis

Samples of Settle Plate

Select suitable agar media for sampling
Place the plates on the table top and take off the lids
Keep the plates covered for between 0.5 and 4 hours
Cover the plates with clear tape and secure the lids
Place the appropriate information on the plates
To avoid freezing the samples, place the samples in a cooler or box.
Send the completed chain of custody form along with your samples to us, for incubation or identification of the resulting bacteria or mold.

How to Collect Air Samples (culturable), for Mold or Bacteria Testing

For culture analysis, volumetric air samples are obtained by transferring a predetermined volume of air onto a suitable medium. Reuter Centrifugal Samplers (RCS), and the Anderson Single Stage Sampler are two common samples. This is especially important if MBL offers a bacteria testing service. Refer to the instructions provided by the manufacturer on how to collect samples with your sampler.

The Key Points to Remember:

Label the samples with a permanent marker
Compile a chain-of custody form (sample submission form) with all the pertinent information
Record the air sample flow rate and the sampling time for air samples.
Place the samples and chain of custody forms in a shipping container
If the sample does not require culturing refrigeration is not usually required when sending it to the laboratory.
Write down the following information and attach it to the samples you collect. Or, download our Analysis Request Form and complete it.
- Name
- If applicable, company
- Mailing Address
- Telephone number (voice) and fax number (if relevant)
- Email address (if applicable)
- Date sample taken
- The type of analysis that is required (if you aren’t sure, call the lab).
- Non-viable analysis requires a turnaround time of 1-3 days or 24 hours.

Cynthia Vincent