Issue link: https://hi.iaq.net/i/883956
MOLD: WORKER AND EMPLOYER GUIDE TO HAZARDS AND RECOMMENDED CONTROLS Water damage inside buildings after disasters contributes to the growth of mold. Workers exposed to mold during disaster recovery and cleanup may experience a variety of health problems. Removing mold growth and correcting the underlying source of water responsible for the mold contamination can help to reduce mold exposures and related health symptoms. This safety and health reference guide summarizes basic procedures for mold remediation for workers involved in home rebuilding and rehabilitation after disasters. When disaster recovery activities require significant mold remediation or when workers are inexperienced in this type of task, refer to more detailed guidance on how to safely and effectively remove and clean up mold. Several resources, including some that describe how to train workers performing mold remediation, are provided in the Additional Resources section of this guide. WHAT IS MOLD? Molds are the most common forms of fungi found on the Earth. There are many of different types of mold that can grow anywhere moisture is present. Water during and after natural disasters—including floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes—can lead to growth of mold and contamination of building materials. WHAT ARE THE HAZARDS OF MOLD? Exposure to mold contamination in an indoor environment may lead to: • Itchy, runny, or stuffy nose; • Sneezing; • Itchy or watery eyes; • Itchy or sore throat; • Cough; • Wheezing; • Severe allergic responses (e.g., rhinitis, asthma, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis); and • Infections i . Some symptoms have been attributed to poisonous substances released by some molds. Most people experience no health effects from exposure to the molds ordinarily present in normal indoor or outdoor air. However, some individuals with allergies may be more sensitive to molds. WHERE DOES MOLD COME FROM? Molds can grow on just about any substance, as long as moisture and a food source are available. Excessive mold growth may occur when moisture accumulates in buildings or on building materials, including carpet; ceiling tile; insulation; paper; wallboard; drywall; wood; surfaces behind wallpaper; under window sills; or in heating, ventilation duct work, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems .ii Homes and other buildings that are left in disrepair after a disaster may also develop excessive mold growth from other sources of moisture, including plumbing, roof and window leaks; condensation on cold surfaces (e.g., pipe sweating); drain pans; and wet foundations due to landscaping or gutters that direct water into or under the building. Water vapor from unvented or poorly vented kitchens, showers, combustion appliances, clothes dryers or steam pipes can also promote mold growth. 2