Mold Remediation Certification Practice Exam

What should never be mixed due to hazardous reactions during mold remediation?

1. Alcohol and bleach

2. Vinegar and ammonia

3. Bleach and ammonia

4. Detergents and bleach

The correct answer is: Bleach and ammonia

Mixing bleach and ammonia produces toxic chloramine vapors, which can lead to serious respiratory problems and other health hazards. When these two substances are combined, they undergo a chemical reaction that releases highly irritating and potentially lethal gases. This is particularly concerning in mold remediation, where proper air quality and safety for the workers and occupants are paramount. Using bleach is common in mold remediation due to its effectiveness in killing mold on non-porous surfaces. However, if ammonia is also present, whether as a cleaning agent or from other sources, the reaction poses significant risks. Therefore, it is critical to maintain a safe working environment by avoiding the combination of bleach and ammonia altogether. While other combinations, such as alcohol and bleach or vinegar and ammonia, may also pose risks, they do not generate the same level of toxic gases that result from mixing bleach and ammonia, making the latter combination particularly dangerous in remediation scenarios.