Harnessing the Power of Ozone: A Safe, Effective Tool in Professional Mould Remediation

Table of Contents

1. What Is Ozone and How Does It Work?
2. Benefits of Ozone in Mould Remediation
3. Misconceptions and Limitations
4. Safety Protocols at CCNI
5. How Ozone Fits into a Full Remediation Plan
6. Case Study: Commercial Property in Belfast
7. Why Choose Cleaning Contractors NI
8. Conclusion
9. References

What Is Ozone and How Does It Work?

Ozone (O₃) is a molecule made of three oxygen atoms and is known for its powerful oxidizing properties. It's commonly used in industries like water treatment and food sanitation for its ability to neutralize bacteria, viruses, and mould spores.

In mould remediation, ozone is generated on-site using an ozone generator. When released into a sealed space, it oxidises organic compounds and neutralises airborne spores and odours.

For more technical details on ozone's properties and reactivity:
Ozone Chemistry - Lenntech

Benefits of Ozone in Mould Remediation

Neutralises Airborne Mould Spores

Ozone can reach concealed areas such as wall cavities and under floorboards, killing airborne spores and making post-remediation air safer.

Eliminates Musty Odours

It effectively breaks down the VOCs responsible for that distinctive "mouldy" smell.

More on ozone odour neutralisation:
How Ozone Eliminates Odors - Ozone Solutions

Reaches Hidden and Inaccessible Areas

Traditional methods can't always penetrate behind plaster or inside voids. Ozone gas, however, seeps into these areas without requiring demolition.

Environmentally Friendly

Unlike some harsh biocides, ozone decomposes back into oxygen with no harmful residues.

Misconceptions and Limitations

Despite its strengths, ozone should never be the only method of mould remediation.

According to the IICRC S520-2024 standard:

"Ozone... should not be used as a substitute for source removal."

Full text:
IICRC S520-2024 Standard PDF

Health Risks If Misused

The EPA and American Lung Association warn that improper use can irritate lungs and worsen asthma:

• EPA - Ozone Generators as Air Cleaners
• ALA - Ozone and Health

Regulatory Warnings

Even the California Air Resources Board states that ozone can cause health issues above certain levels:

• CARB - Ozone Generators

Safety Protocols at CCNI

As Ireland's only IICRC-certified antimicrobial specialists, we take every precaution:

• Vacating Treated Areas: All humans and pets must be out of the property.
• Sealing Rooms: Prevent ozone leakage to safe areas.
• Ventilation After Use: Fans and filters run to revert ozone to safe oxygen levels.
• Testing: Re-entry only permitted when ozone levels fall within OSHA guidelines.
  • OSHA - Ozone Chemical Safety Sheet

How Ozone Fits into a Full Remediation Plan

Ozone is not a standalone solution. Here’s how we integrate it:

1. Initial Inspection
   Leak source identification, moisture mapping, thermal imaging.
2. Containment & Negative Air Pressure
   HEPA filtration to protect adjacent areas.
3. Physical Removal
   Moldy plasterboard, carpet, wood—all stripped.
4. Cleaning & Disinfection
   Using EPA-registered antimicrobials.
5. Drying & Dehumidification
   Prevents recurrence.
6. Ozone Application
   Reaches inaccessible places and removes lingering odours.
7. Post-Remediation Verification
   Clearance testing and documentation.

Case Study: Commercial Property in Belfast

A call came in from a property manager. Tenants had complained of persistent respiratory issues and a strong, musty odour. We discovered black mould behind built-in shelving due to a burst pipe months earlier.

After a full strip-out and sanitisation, we used ozone to treat the HVAC system and inaccessible voids. Post-job IAQ tests showed safe airborne spore levels. The odour was completely neutralised. The client signed off with full satisfaction.

Why Choose Cleaning Contractors NI

• IICRC-Certified Antimicrobial Technicians
  Only firm on the island of Ireland with this status.
• Thousands of Homes and Businesses Restored
  16+ years in the industry.
• Advanced Tools and Protocols
  DNA testing, thermal imaging, HEPA air scrubbers, and ozone.
• Insurance-Approved & Fully Compliant
  We work with loss adjusters and surveyors across the country.

Conclusion

Ozone gas can be an invaluable tool in the mould remediation process—if used safely and as part of a broader strategy. While it neutralises spores and odours effectively, it should never replace source removal or professional cleaning.

At Cleaning Contractors NI, we follow industry standards to deliver results that are safe, lasting, and fully verified. If you suspect mould in your home or business, book a mould survey with our expert team today.

Call: 028 9560 0105
Email: info@cleaningcontractorsni.com

References

1. IICRC S520-2024 Standard for Professional Mold Remediation
2. EPA: Ozone Generators Are Sold as Air Cleaners
3. American Lung Association: Ozone and Your Lungs
4. OSHA: Ozone Chemical Safety Guide
5. CARB - Ozone Generator Risks
6. Lenntech - Ozone Chemistry Overview
7. Ozone Solutions - How Ozone Works on Odors
8. NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
9. Moldpedia - Ozone for Mold Removal
10. Scientific American - The Dangers of Ozone Generators
11. PubMed: Health Effects of Ozone Exposure
12. Cleanfax - Understanding Ozone Use in Remediation