Safeguarding Heritage: How SANI-99™ Protected Shakespeare’s Globe Workshop from Black Mould
Photo Credit: David Jensen
The offsite workshop and storage facility of the renowned Shakespeare’s Globe in Bermondsey faced a significant and escalating black mould problem. This location—vital for housing stage props, set pieces, and workshop operations—suffered from persistent damp conditions caused by high indoor humidity, minimal ventilation, and suspected water ingress along the exterior walls.
The environmental shortcomings created ideal conditions for black mould to thrive, particularly in both front- and back-of-house operational areas. Over time, extensive mould colonisation was observed on a variety of materials, including timber, brickwork, and metal surfaces. Not only did this threaten the preservation of valuable and often irreplaceable theatre assets, but it also posed serious health risks to staff working within the facility.
As the site lacked the advanced climate control systems present at the main Globe Theatre on New Globe Walk, a bespoke and sensitive remediation solution was required—one capable of addressing the immediate health hazard while preserving the integrity of historic materials and aligning with the organisation’s sustainability values.
The Challenge
In February 2025, Scientific Sanitation Solutions (SSS) conducted a comprehensive site survey of the Shakespeare’s Globe offsite facility in Bermondsey. The assessment revealed alarmingly high humidity levels, averaging 62.4%, with low ambient temperatures around 8.2°C—an ideal environment for mould growth. Extensive mycelium development was observed across numerous structural and storage surfaces, including wood panels, exposed brickwork, and metal fittings.
Visible signs of deterioration were evident: dark wall discolouration, musty odours, rotting timber, and condensation build-up. Moisture readings showed severe saturation levels in key operational zones. These conditions were further aggravated by the lack of mechanical
ventilation, absence of dehumidifiers, and suspected water ingress through the exterior wall. Moss accumulation on outer surfaces further indicated ongoing moisture retention.
Unlike the main Shakespeare’s Globe site, which benefits from integrated environmental controls and climate regulation, the Bermondsey facility lacked even basic airflow management. As a result, the workshop had become a high-risk environment—not only for the long-term preservation of delicate stage materials and props but also for the wellbeing of staff operating in these confined, poorly ventilated areas.
A fast, safe, and sustainable intervention was urgently required to arrest the spread of mould, restore healthy working conditions, and protect the theatre’s invaluable heritage assets.
Our Solution
In March 2025, Scientific Sanitation Solutions (SSS) implemented a full-site mould remediation programme at the Shakespeare’s Globe Bermondsey workshop. Recognising the sensitivity of the environment—home to historic stage props, set materials, and wooden fittings—SSS employed SANI-99™, a specially formulated biodegradable and non-toxic biocidal treatment ideal for heritage and conservation settings.
The remediation process was carefully planned and executed to ensure both effectiveness and minimal disruption to the space and its contents. Key stages included:
- Full PPE protection for all operatives: Our trained specialists operated in full hazmat personal protective equipment to ensure safety during the handling of biological contaminants and chemical treatments.
- Electrostatic spraying of all affected surfaces: Using advanced electrostatic sprayers, SANI-99™ was evenly distributed across contaminated materials including wood, brick, metal shutters, ventilation ducts, and storage areas, achieving comprehensive
coverage. - 15-minute dwell time for deep penetration: Once applied, the treatment was left to dwell on surfaces for 15 minutes, allowing time for deep absorption and full eradication of mould spores at the root level.
- Manual wash down of spores and debris: Following dwell time, surfaces were thoroughly cleaned using buckets, mops, sponges, and cloths to physically remove loosened mould and debris.
- Final residual application of SANI-99™: A second, light application of the treatment was applied post-cleaning to provide residual protection, preventing mould regrowth in the days and weeks following treatment.
This holistic and non-invasive approach was designed to meet the dual demands of effective mould elimination and the careful preservation of historically significant theatre assets. The choice of SANI-99™ also aligned with the Shakespeare’s Globe commitment to sustainability, offering an environmentally responsible solution without compromising on performance.
Outcomes
The tailored application of SANI-99™ at the Shakespeare’s Globe Bermondsey workshop produced clear, measurable, and lasting results—proving its effectiveness in even the most challenging, heritage-sensitive environments.
- Zero Regrowth
Post-treatment inspections confirmed that all previously affected areas remained mould-free, demonstrating the long-lasting biocidal power of SANI-99™ and the success of our multi-step remediation approach. - Historic Preservation
Valuable and often irreplaceable theatre props, stage materials, and wooden fixtures were fully preserved without damage. The non-invasive, residue-free formulation of SANI-99™ ensured that the character and craftsmanship of these historic elements remained untouched. - Improved Air Quality
By eliminating airborne mould spores and reducing damp-related odours, the internal environment became significantly healthier for staff and safer for the storage of delicate materials. - Eco-Friendly Impact
As a biodegradable, non-toxic treatment, SANI-99™ supported the Shakespeare’s Globe commitment to environmental responsibility. The treatment avoided the use of harsh chemicals, making it ideal for ongoing use in performance and conservation
spaces. - Operational Value
The treatment’s residual protection reduced the need for frequent follow-ups and labour-intensive cleaning—minimising future maintenance costs while maximising peace of mind for site managers.
This case demonstrates how a modern, science-led approach to sanitation can align with traditional values of preservation and sustainability.
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Download our Black Mould Brochure using the button below to explore how SANI-99™ can support your organisation’s health, safety, and heritage protection goals.
Testimonial
“The SSS team provided an outstanding service, tackling a complex mould problem with expertise and care. Their use of SANI-99™ not only resolved the immediate threat but also
gave us confidence in the long-term protection of our theatre’s heritage and health standards. What truly stood out was their continued support after the initial treatment—they loaned us professional sprayer equipment and provided clear guidance so we could carry out ongoing treatments in-house. This proactive approach ensured we could maintain control over the environment and prevent future outbreaks. Exactly what we needed — a solution shaped around our specific requirements.”
Facilities Manager, Shakespeare’s Globe