Certified Mold Sampling Technician (CMST)
This course offers an in-depth exploration of fungal ecology and forensic sampling methodologies, with a strict focus on the technical execution of bioaerosol, surface, and cavity data collection. Students who complete the course will receive a certification as a Certified Mold Sampling Technician (CMST), which attests to their proficiency in sterile sampling protocols, pump calibration, and the interpretation of laboratory data according to industry standards. To enhance their learning experience, students will apply these skills through real-world “Condition” scenarios that mirror the legal and ethical challenges of professional fieldwork.
Overview
Certification
As a CMST-certified technician, you’ll provide expert specimen collection services that form the backbone of indoor air quality investigations.
This Assessment-Based Certificate (ABC) program verifies your expertise in pump calibration, media selection, chain-of-custody protocols, and laboratory data interpretation. It distinguishes you as a specialist in the physical collection of fungal evidence, adhering to strict industry standards (IICRC/ACGIH). After passing the exam, you can proudly display your digital IAQCert badge on your website to highlight your verified technical proficiency.
Learning Approach
1. LearnEase
Ideal for beginners, offering 27 engaging lectures across 8 comprehensive modules. Engage at your own pace and use the extensive material as a valuable resource bank.
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2. CertFast
Perfect for experienced professionals. A focused 1-hour exam to validate your skills quickly, bypassing the extended learning modules.
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Learning Outcomes
- Master the physics of inertial impaction and spore trap deployment.
- Execute sterile surface sampling (Tape, Swab, Bulk).
- Perform wall cavity checks using proper airflow adapters.
- Calibrate bioaerosol pumps to primary standards.
- Maintain a legally defensible Chain of Custody (COC).
- Interpret laboratory results to identify “Condition 1, 2, or 3.”
- Apply proper PPE and safety containment during sampling.
- Navigate the liability between “Sampling” and “Remediation.”
Offering both a Comprehensive Learning Path (LearnEase) and a Fast-Track Exam Path (CertFast), our CMST course equips you with the essential technical skills to act as a precision Mold Sampling Technician.
Enrollment & Certification Policy
Your enrollment includes full access to all course materials and the final exam for one year from your original date of enrollment. Certification is awarded immediately upon successfully passing the exam, and it remains valid until one year from your initial enrollment date. Students who enroll in a Technician Certification are eligible to receive one Safety course of their choice free of charge. To redeem this benefit, please contact IAQCert support after completing your Technician course enrollment.
Curriculum
Curriculum
- 9 Sections
- 27 Lessons
- 52 Weeks of Access
- Module 1: The Invisible World (Biological Basics)Starting with biology ensures that the student respects the agent they are testing for, setting the scientific tone for the entire program.4
- Module 2: The Human Factor (Health and Toxicology)This module connects mold to human health, providing the "why" behind the service and allowing for effective client communication.3
- Module 3: The Building as a System (Building Science)Mold is treated as a symptom of building failure. Students learn to look beyond the surface to understand hydrothermal dynamics.3
- Module 4: The Technician's Toolkit (Instrumentation)Technicians are introduced to the physical tools of the trade, with a heavy emphasis on accuracy and data integrity.4
- Module 5: The Master Inspection (SOP and Procedure)This module merges building history and visual findings into a standardized, defensible protocol.3
- Module 6: The Art of Sampling (Field Technique)The technical core of the course focuses on the physical acts of sampling while preventing contamination and lab errors.3
- Module 7: The Final Evidence (Lab and COC)Navigating the logistics of sample submission and the critical interpretation of the laboratory's findings.3
- Module 8: The Professional Path (Business and Ethics)Focused on career launch, risk management, and the maintenance of high ethical standards to avoid liability.4
- CMST EXAM5
Course Features
- Lectures: 27
- Quizzes: 5
- Modules: 8
- Skill level: All levels
- Exam: 1-Hour
- Students 2
- Certificate: Yes
- Assessments: Self