MOLD GROWTH IN BUILDINGS: An Indoor Risk
Molds are ubiquitous, essential parts of the fabric of life on this planet. We are aware of 20,000-30,000 different species, but know very little about specific health effects possibly caused by exposure to these molds. Clearly allergens and toxins are manufactured by some species of molds, but the circumstances under which the mold generates toxins remain uncertain.
Mold measurements remain problematic, due to the variety of methods available (tape sampling, air culture sampling, air spore sampling, bulk material analysis, and swab sampling, among others) and the inability to determine without doubt that health effects are caused by the mold present. With our variety of respiratory and genetic histories, and the ability of mold counts to change rapidly under the proper growing conditions, exact diagnosis is virtually impossible.
The essentials of dealing with mold growth in homes are better understood. EPA does not recommend testing. Basic principals include 1) solving the water problem which permitted the mold growth; 2) removal of the mold (not just killing the mold, since dead spores may be allergenic or toxigenic) and 3) protection of the workers and others who may be nearby. Guidelines proposed by the New York City Department of Health will be discussed, as well as the latest EPA documents on mold.
Learning Objectives: The student will be able to: Describe the rationale for dealing with mold causes, rather than attempting to identify the mold species.
Keywords: Indoor Environment, Air Pollutants
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.