b. Specific to this method. The fungus test, unlike other environmental tests, involves living organisms. If the test is interrupted, the fact that live organisms are involved must be considered. (1) If the interruption occurs during the first seven days of the test, restart the test from the beginning with either a new or cleaned test item. If the interruption (such as a short power outage) does not produce drastic drops in humidity (less than 90% RH) and temperature (less than 28oC (82oF)), continue the test and add the time lost to the final test time. (2) If the interruption occurs after 25 days of testing, examine the test item for evidence of fungus growth. If the test item is bio-susceptible, there is no need for a retest. If the controls exhibit viable growth but there is no evidence of fungus growth on the test item, follow the guidance given below. (a) Lowered temperature. A lowering of the test chamber temperature generally will retard fungus growth. If the relative humidity has been maintained, reestablish the test conditions and continue the test from the point where the temperature fell below the prescribed tolerances. If not, see paragraph 4.3(c) below. (b) Elevated temperature. Elevated temperatures may have a drastic effect on fungus growth. A complete re-initiation of the test is required if one of the following exists. Otherwise, reestablish test conditions and continue the test from the point of interruption. - the temperature exceeds 40°C (104°F), or - the temperature exceeds 32°C (90°F) for 4 hours or more, or - there is evidence of deterioration of the fungus growth on the control strips. (c) Lowered humidity. A complete retest is required if one of the following exists. Otherwise, reestablish test conditions and continue the test from the point of interruption. - the relative humidity drops below 50 percent, or - the relative humidity drops below 70 percent for 4 hours or more, or - there is evidence of deterioration of the fungal colonies on the control strips.