| Mold, or microbial, contamination is rampant in many
buildings today for many reasons, including new energy-saving
programs that require air conditioning to be turned off
on weekends, holidays and other times the building is
not occupied. The result is mold on books and paper,
inside wall cavities and ceiling tiles, and employees
complaining of runny noses, itchy eyes and sore throats.
The spores of fungi are always present in the air
and on objects. They lie dormant, waiting for the perfect
conditions of high humidity and warm temperatures to
grow. Once growth begins, it spreads quickly. Dehumidification
is effective in arresting the growth, but the active
growth and spores must be removed, and the cause of
the outbreak identified and corrected.
Some varieties of fungi can be highly
toxic. Most molds
colonize particularly well in high-cellulose materials,
such as paper, books and cellulose-containing building
materials, such as drywall, lint and dust. Strict
remediation protocols must be followed during decontamination
of
fungi and mycotoxins to prevent further contamination
and protect the health of building occupants and
remediation personnel. |
