Agency officials reported ongoing work using, in part, a DNA-based method for analyzing 36 species of mold that EPA developed, patented, and has licensed commercial laboratories to perform. Working with HUD, EPA used this method to develop a standard sampling and analytic process that then led to the development of the Environmental Relative Moldiness Index (ERMI) scale for U.S. homes. According to EPA, this index provides a simple, objective evaluation of the mold burden in a home. EPA reported ongoing epidemiological studies using the ERMI scale aimed at determining if the ERMI values can be used to understand the risk of asthma or related respiratory symptoms.
Indoor Mold: Better Coordination of Research on Health Effects and More Consistent Guidance Would Improve Federal Efforts
United States Government Accountability Office