MOLD FACTS:
What is
mold and where is it found?
Mold (fungi) is present everywhere - indoors and outdoors. There are more
than 100,000 species of mold. At least 1,000 species of mold are common
in the U.S. Some of the most commonly found are species of Cladosporium,
Penicillium, and Aspergillus. Mold is most likely to grow where there
is water or dampness - such as in bathrooms and basements.
How can
mold affect your health?
Most types of mold that are routinely encountered are not hazardous to
healthy individuals. However, too much exposure to mold may cause or worsen
conditions such as asthma, hay fever, or other allergies. The most common
symptoms of over exposure are cough, congestion, runny nose, eye irritation,
and aggravation of asthma. Depending on the amount of exposure and a person’s
individual vulnerability, more serious health effects - such as fevers
and breathing problems - can occur but are unusual.
How can
you be exposed to mold?
When moldy material becomes damaged or disturbed, spores (reproductive
bodies similar to seeds) can be released into the air. Exposure can occur
if people inhale the spores, directly handle moldy materials, or accidentally
ingest it. Also, mold can sometimes produce chemicals called mycotoxins.
Mycotoxins may cause illness in people who are sensitive to them or if
they are exposed to large amounts in the air. Large exposures are typically
associated with certain occupations (e.g., agricultural work).
How does
mold grow?
All molds need water to grow. Mold can grow almost anywhere there
is water damage, high humidity, or dampness. Most often molds are confined
to areas near the source of water. Removing the source of moisture - such
as through repairs or dehumidification - is critical to preventing mold
growth. There are over 100,000 different species of Molds.
5 Major
Toxic molds:
1. Aspergillus
2. Penicillium
3. Stachybotrys
4. Curvularia
5. Fusarium
What constitutes
a mold problem?
Odor
Visually seeing mold
Scientific testing through a laboratory confirming mold types and spore
counts.
Other
things to watch for?
Are there existing moisture problems in the building?
Have building materials been wet more than 48 hours?
Are there hidden sources of water or is the humidity too high (high enough
to cause condensation)?
Are building occupants reporting musty or moldy odors?
Are building occupants reporting health problems?
Are building materials or furnishings visibly damaged?
Has maintenance been delayed or the maintenance plan been altered?
Has the building been recently remodeled or has building use changed?
Is consultation with medical or health professionals indicated?
Heating,
Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) System
Do not run the HVAC system if you know or suspect that it is contaminated
with mold. If you suspect that it may be contaminated (it is part of an
identified moisture problem, for instance, or there is mold growth near
the intake to the system)
*This product is recommend for common mold/mildew problems. If mold problem is severe please consult a professional.
Bio-Science Environmental Services and Laboratory, Inc. 1501 NW 1st Court Boca Raton, FL 33432 1.866.463.2511 Fax: 1.561.3