Concern about indoor exposure to
mould has been increasing as the public becomes aware that exposure
to mould can cause a variety of health effects and symptoms, including
allergic reactions.
Moulds
can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic
substance, as long moisture and oxygen are present. There are
moulds 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. Air conditioning
system provide an excellent environment for mould growth. The
cooling coil, which cools the air to be
distributed, has moisture (condensation), a cool temperature and
dust particles for food. All air passes throught this coil and
in many cases over bacteria and mould. It is impossible to eliminate
all moulds and mould spores in the indoor environment. However,
mould growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture
indoors and by the application of biocides on air
conditioning coils.
Moulds reproduce
by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification.
Mould spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually.
When mould spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin
growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to
survive.
There
are many types of moulds. All moulds have the potential to cause
health effects. Moulds can produce allergens that can trigger
allergic reactions or even asthma attacks in people allergic to
mould. Others are known to produce potent toxins and / or irritants.
Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mould
growth and to remediate / clean up any existing indoor mould growth.
Things
You Should Know About Mould
Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mould
exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory
complaints.
- There is no practical way to
eliminate all mould and mould spores in the indoor environment;
the way is to control mould growth.
- Prevent condensation: Reduce
the potential for condensation on cold surfaces by adding
insulation.
- Moulds can be found almost
anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing
moisture is present. There are moulds that can grow on wood,
paper, carpet, and foods.
- In areas where moisture is
always present the use of biocides will control bacterial
and mould. (air conditioning coils)
Indoor
Fungi Resources
University of Minnesota - Enviornmental
Health and Safety