Environmental Health Services
Air Quality - Mold
Ten Things You Should Know About Mold
- Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold
exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory
complaints.
- There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores
in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth
is to control moisture.
- If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean
up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
- Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold
growth.
- Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by:
venting bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources
to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing
ventilation; and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing,
and cleaning.
- Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings
within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
- Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry
completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are
moldy, may need to be replaced.
- Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation
on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof,
or floors) by adding insulation.
- In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not
install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks,
or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
- Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually
any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds
that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods."
(Source: Environmental Protection Agency)
Additional Information from the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency:
