10/18/2022
Outside molds carry out natureās work by disassembling decaying organic materials: dead plants, fallen trees and dead animals.
Inside, mold growth can cause an array of health concerns.
There is always a little mold everywhere ā in the air and on many surfaces. Certain molds are toxigenic, meaning they can produce toxins (specifically āmycotoxinsā). When in the form of mold particles, a wide variety of organic materials can cause health problems.
Mold can become a hazard in a wide variety of environments from basements to damp walls and equipment to cool walking surfaces.
Short term exposure to molds can cause:
ā¢ Runny nose (93% of chronic sinus infections = mold)
ā¢ Weeping eyes
ā¢ Wheezing, sneezing, coughing, and shortness of breath
ā¢ Itchy eyes or itchy skin with rash
Some people, such as those with allergies to molds or with asthma, may have more intense reactions. Severe reactions may occur among workers exposed to large amounts of mold in occupational settings. There is consistent evidence to link indoor exposure to mold with upper respiratory tract symptoms, cough, and wheeze in otherwise healthy people. Mold exposure to people in at-risk groups include people with immune suppression or underlying lung disease, asthma symptoms in people with asthma; and with hypersensitivity pneumonitis in individuals susceptible to that immune-mediated condition.
The length of time it takes for mold to cause symptoms varies greatly. The side effects can be immediate, delayed, or nonexistent.
How to Prevent Mold Hazards
Mold growing in buildings indicates that there is a problem with water or moisture. Inspect buildings for evidence of water damage and visible mold as part of routine building maintenance. Correct conditions causing mold growth by:
ā¢ Promptly fixing leaky roofs, windows, and pipes
ā¢ Thoroughly cleaning and drying after flooding
ā¢ Ventilating laundry, and cooking areas
ā¢ Controlling humidity levels
ā¢ Routine and prompt cleaning of equipment and tools
ā¢ Remove moldy items. Once mold starts to grow in carpet, insulation, ceiling tiles, drywall, or wallboard, the only way to deal with the problem is by removal and replacement.
ā¢ Remove moldy items such as food, wet rags and sponges, etc. ā most any item can be a source of molds.
ā¢ Scrub cleanable surfaces (such as wood, tile, stone) with soapy water and a bristle brush.
ā¢ Thoroughly clean hard surfaces (such as flooring, molding, wood and metal furniture, countertops, and sinks).
ā¢ Dry surfaces quickly and thoroughly after cleaning. Use a fan, air conditioner or dehumidifier to help the surfaces dry after cleaning is finished.
