Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings

2/26/2019 (Permalink)

Mold: Commercial Buildings & Schools

Concern about indoor exposure to mold has been increasing as the public becomes aware that exposure to mold can cause a variety of health effects and symptoms. Here is some information for the remediation/cleanup of mold and moisture problems in schools and commercial buildings.

 Did You Know?

Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. There are molds 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. It is impossible to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment. However, mold growth can be controlled indoors by controlling moisture indoors.

Molds reproduce by making spores that usually cannot be seen without magnification. Mold spores waft through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. Molds gradually destroy the things they grow on, and can cause health effects.

Mold in Commercial Buildings

Since mold requires water to grow, it is important to prevent moisture problems in buildings. Moisture problems can have many causes, including uncontrolled humidity. Some moisture problems in buildings have been linked to changes in building construction practices during the 1970s, 80s and 90s. Some of these changes have resulted in buildings that are tightly sealed, but may lack adequate ventilation, potentially leading to moisture buildup. Building materials, such as drywall, may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture problems may include:

• Roof leaks
• Landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under the building
• Unvented combustion appliances
• Delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance are also associated with moisture problems in schools and large buildings

Moisture problems in portable classrooms and other temporary structures have frequently been associated with mold problems. For more information see IAQ Design Tools for Schools - Portable Classrooms.

When mold growth occurs in buildings, adverse health problems may be reported by some building occupants. Remediators should avoid exposing themselves and others to mold-laden dusts as they conduct their cleanup activities. Caution should be used to prevent mold and mold spores from being dispersed throughout the air where they can be inhaled by building occupants.

https://www.epa.gov/mold/mold-remediation-schools-and-commercial-buildings-guide

If you are in need of Mold Remediation in your commercial building, SERVPRO of Baldwin County will be happy to help make it look “Like it never even happened." Call us today at 251-928-9625