You’ve probably heard that you should wear a full-face respirator when working with mold. This safety precaution is compulsory to ensure the mold do not get into your eyes, nose, and mouth and lead to uncomfortable symptoms.
However, mold can get into your skin and cause allergic reactions such as dry, itchy, and blotchy skin. An unpleasant skin rash usually accompanies these symptoms. So to prevent exposure to your skin, wear protective coveralls.
They are designed to keep mold as far from your skin as possible. There are quite a few on the market, so let’s take a look at some of the best coveralls when working with mold.
Best Coveralls For Mold Removal Reviews & Recommendations For 2021
#1 KleenGuard Coveralls
Kleen Guard Coveralls provide extreme barrier protection against chemical and hazardous waste. They are made from breathable microporous film laminate, so these coveralls are suitable for protection against the elements.
The tough film on the coverall offers an excellent barrier against liquids, and the soft non-woven fabric is comfortable to wear.
They offer low linting, anti-static design as well as silicone protection. These coveralls are stored in sealed poly bags which reduce the risk of contamination. They are approved for radioactive dust protection, although they do not provide protection against radioactive radiation.
KleenGuard coveralls protect against a wide range of liquid and chemical splashes as well as dust particles. So is ideal for working in certain environments where you deal with these hazardous materials.
These features also make the suit ideal for mold remediation projects as it provides a protective barrier ensuring that the mold spores do not come into contact with your skin.
While the inner layer, made from clot-like polypropylene is tough and very resistant. The coveralls also have a hood that’s designed for you to wear a full-face respirator. The hood, waist, ankles, and cuffs are elasticated to increase comfort.
If you’re worried about getting in and out of these coveralls easily, then you’ll be pleased to know that it provides a full-length zip that makes using it convenient.
The seams are strong and triple stitched to prevent against tearing. They are available in sizes from small to extra large and stored in poly bags to minimize contamination. Ultimately these coveralls are designed to create a safe, healthy and more productive work area.
Pros
- Breathable and comfortable
- Passes NFPA 99 criteria
- Low in lint
- Better liquid barrier than most other coverall brands
Cons
- You cannot wash them
#2 DuPont TY122S-XL-EACH Coverall Suit
The DuPont TY122S-XL-EACH Disposable coverall is made up of high-density polyethylene which is a non-woven material available from DuPont. With this coverall, you get as much comfort, protection, and limited use as possible from any protective fabric.
The coverall has an inherent barrier that protects against particles down to 1.0 micron in size. The protection is built into the fabric of the coverall. There are no films or laminates to wear away.
These coveralls from DuPont are durable and have an advantage over microporous film.
That said, they do deliver consistently better barrier protection even after wear and abrasion. So the suit is ideal for asbestos abatement, remediation, mold remediation, spray paint as well as general cleanup jobs.
Some of the main features of this product include the fact that it is comfortable to wear, yet durable enough to protect you against hazardous substances such as black mold.
The suit is designed in a way to allows you greater freedom of movement, including stretching and bending.
It’s a more tailored fit, and it is reinforced to prevent tears. The long zipper ensures that getting in and out of the suit is easier. The hood is also designed in a way that accommodates for a full-face respirator.
It is also designed to cover the neck and chin and hold the respirator adequately in place.
Pros
- Stops more particles than any other other reusable garments
- Offers durability, comfort and protection
Cons
- Rips easily
#3 DuPont Tyvek 800J TJ198T Coverall Suit
The DuPont Tyvek 800J coveralls offer resistance to low concentration, water-based inorganic chemicals.
Thanks to its durability, strength, and innovative fabric technology, these coveralls provide enhanced protection against various elements and hazards.
The coveralls are also soft and comfortable since they are lightweight; however, still strong enough to stand up to abrasion. They provide protection against infective agents. They also offer protection against radioactive contamination.
When it comes to low concentration water-based inorganic chemicals, the fabric and seams offer chemical permeation barrier. The seams are also over-taped and serged to protect and strengthen the garment.
The durability is reinforced thanks to the self-adhesive chin strap, which also ensures it seals better around a respirator mask.
The face, wrist, and ankle are elasticated to ensure a comfortable fit. There are also elastic thumb loops that keep sleeves in place.
This couple is specifically designed for work in various sites that require liquid, chemical, and oil protection.
So is ideal for industrial cleaning, sewers, petrochemical installations, maintenance work as well as mode and disaster relief projects.
Pros
- Reinforced seams and chemical permeation barrier
- Protects against infective agents
Cons
- Slim fit design may not be suitable for larger adults
#4 DuPont Tyvek 400 TY127S Coverall
The DuPont Tyvek 400 TY127S Disposable Protective Coverall is designed for professional use. It’s ideal for Situations that may require you to dispose of personal protective equipment.
The coverall is disposable and is suitable for a range of jobs ranging from mold remediation, spray paint, lead and asbestos abatement as well as general operations in general cleanup work.
The protective suit is breathable, so you remain cool while wearing it and prevents hazardous particles right down to 0.1-micron size. It also has excellent tear and puncture resistance.
The long zip up ensures that it’s easy to get in and out of the coverall. This zip also extends up to the chin for complete coverage. The elastic waist adjustment offers increased comfort, and the attached hood is made to accommodate for the full-face respirator mask.
The elastic parts also keep dirt out of your suit and ensure that it stays in place. The high-stress areas are reinforced to enjoy more freedom of motion. It’s the ideal balance of protection, durability, and comfort.
Pros
- Elasticated areas for greater comfort
- Durable and tear-resistant
- Hood accommodates for a full-face respirator
Cons
- Disposable and therefore cannot be reused
#5 Lakeland Industries CTL428V-2X Coverall
The Lakeland Industries MicroMax NS Coverall is a general-purpose protective garment designed for use in professional and home environments.
It is mostly used by people who are exposed to hazardous or nonhazardous contaminants.
The coverall is economical and lightweight and has an MVTP which is high. The breathable suit is ideal for comfort, especially when wearing it for long hours.
The coverall is also durable and resistant against water, dirt, oil splashes and spills as well.
Pros
- Resists a number of hazardous chemicals
- Zipper closure for convenient use
Cons
- Disposable and can only be used once
Mold removal coveralls FAQ
Knowing exactly how each type of coverall can protect you during mold removal will make choosing a suitable one simple.
What should you wear to remove mold?
When it comes to mold remediation, your first priority should be your safety and health. Mold exposure or the full range of it is still unknown, and it’s something that can never really be understood entirely.
However, what we do know is that some people have allergies to mold and can be more susceptible to the effects of contamination by mold. Mold spores are toxigenic in most cases, and they can worsen the health of people who have asthma and respiratory problems.
If you have a weak immune system, you should also stay as far away from mold spores as possible. Children and the elderly are also more prone to toxic mold spores.
Therefore when conducting a mold remediation project, you should always wear the necessary protective equipment to complete the job.
First, the P100 respirator is absolutely essential. You should never enter a mold-infested area without a respirator on. Even if you are completely healthy and don’t suffer from respiratory issues, breathing in mold spores can negatively affect your health.
Gloves should always be worn to protect or limit exposure of the mold spores to your skin. Nitrile gloves are a favorite and very popular among professional mold remediators.
However, if you don’t have access to these any kitchen rubber glove will work just as well.
Although it’s not entirely necessary in some cases, especially were mold remediation projects are small, it is essential for moderate to large mold remediation projects.
The coveralls should naturally have long sleeves, long pants, boots, and the hood should accommodate for a respirator and goggles over your eyes.
Where large infestation is involved, or you are dealing with toxigenic black mold, you need to have better protective equipment. So full-body coveralls are compulsory and so are nitrile gloves and a full face P100 respirator.
So to recap, these are the following items that are absolutely essential to mold remediation projects:
- Basic P100 respirator, premium 100 display or full face P100 respirator
- Tyvek suiting
- Nitrile gloves
- Goggles
Why should you need a coveralls for mold removal?
Wearing protective gear when conducting mold remediation projects is usually self-explanatory. However, it’s always good to understand why you’re wearing the protective gear what purpose it serves.
Mold has potential allergenic properties. And people who are allergic to mold usually suffer from coughing, stuffy and runny nose, sore throat, headache, wheezing, dizziness, and fatigue as a result of being exposed to it.
Some people are allergic to mold for a long time; however, certain people who are exposed to mold even once can develop allergic reactions to it. Long-term exposure worsens symptoms.
Mold can even grow in the dust. People exposed to this type of mold develop a condition called organic dust toxic syndrome, and it causes severe cold and flu like symptoms.
Mold also thrives in volatile organic compounds or VOCs. And they create most of the musty, moldy and damp odors inside your home. The majority of VOCs are alcohol, keep tones and ethanol, and however, they are not directly related to human health problems.
Although it goes without saying, mold does have an infective potential. There are literally millions of species of fungi in the wild, and only a few thousand species are commonly found in living environments.
Many of these reported species of fungi have been proven to cause infections in humans, animals as well as plants.
Certain types of mold are also highly toxic in nature. And when they contaminate the air, it can lead to potentially fatal diseases. Certain species of fungi called all Ergot had been known to cause an illness called Ergotism for centuries.
They have been said to cause gangrene in the limbs and ultimately lead to death. These fungi infect the wheat and rye that people ingest.
The good news is that a mold infestation problem can be rectified quickly after it is detected. To prevent reoccurrence of infestation, you should always ensure that your living environment is clean and well ventilated at all times.
Protective gear such as coveralls and respirators will keep you safe from the harmful effects of mold while you are getting rid of it.
Is black mold dangerous for your skin?
One of the most symptoms experienced by exposure to mold is a skin rash. A skin rash appears when your immune system is exposed to mold spores.
As the mold spores enter the body through the breathing cavities, the immune system will detect a foreign invasion.
While some mold is extremely dangerous, a skin rash is often a symptom of an immune system overreaction.
The immune system tries to defend the body against the mold spores and causes the person to cough, sneeze, and develop rashes all while trying to rid the body of these invaders.
So the more antibodies the immune system produces, the more inflammation will occur in the body, and the worse the symptoms will be. A skin rash developed from the mold is usually red and contains small bumps that are super itchy.
If you are not careful, and over scratch the skin, it may tear and become infected. So you see a discharge at the source, and you have fever and pain, there’s a high likelihood that you have been infected.
You should seek medical treatment immediately and have a mold specialist inspect your home.
Do dust masks protect against mold?
The minimum requirement when dealing with mold is to wear a mask or respirator that’s designed especially for mold particles and is N95 particulate respirator approved by the NIOSH or the National institute for occupational safety and health.
The N95 has been tested to keep you from inhaling small particles in the air such as dust and mold. It is ultimately designed to filter out 95% of the dust and mold in the air.
So this would be the most suitable and effective mask to use during mold remediation.
Time to Cover Up
If you have a mold infestation, don’t panic because now that you discovered the problem, you can start to get rid of it.
Irrespective of whether you choose to do mold remediation yourself for call professionals, you should always understand that wearing protective gear is100% necessary to prevent health issues.
So if you choose to do it yourself always wear a respirator that is designed to protect against inhalation of mold spores and wear coveralls that completely protect your entire body.
Nitrile gloves should also be used as well as bubbles to protect your eyes. Once you have all the protective gear that you require, treating a mold infestation will only get easier.
However, it’s important to be on the safe side while ridding your home of mold.
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