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billings, mt  -  helena, mt  -  seattle, wa
 
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Mold belongs to the kingdom Fungi, which is divided up into divisions of Yeasts, Molds, Rusts, and Mushrooms.

~Mold~

Concern about indoor exposure to mold has been increasing as the public becomes aware that elevated exposure to mold can cause a variety of health effects and symptoms, including allergic reactions.

Mold can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There is mold that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, and insulation. When excessive moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. It is impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

Mold reproduces by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Mold gradually destroy the objects they grow on.

Many types of mold exist. Most mold has the potential to cause health effects. Molds may be allergens that can trigger allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to mold. Others are known to produce potent toxins and/or irritants. Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate/ clean up any existing indoor mold growth.

Since mold requires water to grow, it is important to prevent moisture problems in buildings. Moisture problems can have many causes, high humidity, pipe breaks, roof leaks, groundwater intrusion, surface water intrusion and other sources. Some moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in building construction practices during the 1970’s, 80’s, and 90’s. Some of these changes have resulted in buildings that are tightly sealed, but may lack adequate ventilation, potentially leading to moisture buildup. Building materials, such as drywall, may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture problems may include roof leaks, landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under the building, pipe breaks or leaks, groundwater intrusion and un-vented combustion appliances. Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance is also associated with moisture problems in schools and large buildings. Moisture problems in portable classrooms and other temporary structures have frequently been associated with mold problems.


~Prevention~
The key to mold control is Moisture Control. Solve moisture problems before they become mold problems!

 

·        Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible.

·        Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix source(s) of moisture problem(s) as soon as possible.

·        Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in the air (humidity). To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor is warm and humid).

·        Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly and un-obstructed.

·        Vent moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible.

·        Maintain low-indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity (RH), ideally 30-50% if possible.

·        Perform regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance as scheduled.

·        Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours.

·        Don’t let foundations stay wet. Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation.

 


~Safety Tips~
While investigating and Evaluating Mold and Moisture Problems:

·        Do not touch mold or moldy items with your bare hands.

·        Do not get mold or mold spores in your eyes.

·        Do not breath in mold or mold spores.

·        Consider using personal protection equipment (PPE) when disturbing mold.  The minimum PPE is a N-95 respirator, gloves and eye protection.
 
Copyright © 2011 Northern Industrial Hygiene. All rights reserved.
Last updated: 02-15-2011