What are the clearance criteria for surface samples?

The criteria for clearance of surface samples after microbial remediation ideally focus on evaluating the post-remediation conditions to ensure safety and efficacy of the cleaning process. When surface samples demonstrate similar or lower concentrations of contaminants compared to those found in well-maintained buildings, it suggests that the remediation efforts have been successful. This comparison is important as it establishes a baseline for what is considered acceptable contamination levels in a safe environment.

This approach is backed by the understanding that complete elimination of all microbial contaminants is often impractical and unnecessary. Well-maintained buildings will have some level of microbial presence, as long as it falls within acceptable ranges that do not pose health risks. The other options imply extremes or misunderstandings: it isn’t feasible or safe to have higher concentrations in indoor environments compared to outdoor air; stating that areas must be completely free of contaminants is unrealistic and unnecessary; and matching remediation standards alone does not account for the broader context of health and safety provided by comparison to well-maintained structures.