4.1 This practice provides a procedure for collecting surface material using a sterile swab.

4.2 A swab sample collected according to this practice is intended to be used to assess fungal material on surfaces.

4.3 A swab sample collected from an area with defined dimensions can be used to quantify fungal material per unit area or for qualitative analysis.

4.4 A swab sample collected from point(s) of interest can be used for qualitative analysis or to quantify fungal material per sample.

4.5 A swab sample collected according to this practice can be analyzed by direct microscopy, culture, or biochemical analysis.

1.1 The purpose of this practice is to describe the procedures for collection of surface samples using sterile swabs.

1.2 The purpose of this practice is to support the field investigator in differentiating fungal materials from non-fungal material such as scuffs, soot deposits, stains, pigments, dust, efflorescence, adhesives, dust, and water stains.

1.3 This practice does not address building occupant exposures, or occupant health risks.

1.4 The samples collected by this practice are appropriate for culture, direct microscopy, and biochemical analysis, or combination thereof.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.