Mold, Mildew, Fungi, Bacteria,
and Other Biological Contaminants
Molds, mildew, fungi, bacteria, and dust mites are some of the main
biological pollutants found inside the house. Mold and mildew are generated in
the home and release spores into the air. Mold, mildew, fungi, and bacteria
are often found in areas of the home that have high humidity levels, such
as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, or basements.
Allergic reactions are the most common
health problems associated with biological pollutants. Symptoms often
include watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, itching,
coughing, headache, dizziness, and fatigue.
Biologicals
grow inside homes and buildings in different ways, depending upon the
pollutant. Mold grows on
organic materials such as paper, textiles, grease, dirt, and soap scum.
Mold spores float throughout the house, forming new colonies where they
land. Mold and mildew need a water source to survive. Pollen, plant
material that enters through windows or on pets, and animal dander can
become airborne when disturbed, and can trigger an allergic reaction.
Infectious diseases caused by bacteria and viruses are generally passed
from person to person through physical contact, but some circulate through
indoor ventilation systems.
Testing
and Cleanup There are no practical
tests for testing for biological pollutants. The EPA and other public health agencies do not recommend testing
mold or mildew for possible toxicity unless litigation is an issue, or the
individual is experiencing health problems. The simple reason for this is that if you can see or smell the
mold, you need to clean it up, regardless of whether it is
considered “toxic.” Mold
can damage property and have differential health consequences on people.
The key to mold control is moisture control. It is important to dry
water-damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
If mold is a problem in your home, clean up the mold and get rid of the
excess water or moisture. Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water.
Wash mold off of hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely.
Absorbent materials (such as ceiling tiles & carpet) that become moldy
may have to be replaced.
Here are
some tips for reducing biological pollutants in your indoor environments:
-
Prevent mold growth by keeping basements, bathroom, and other rooms
clean and dry. Use a disinfectant to clean surfaces that have mold on
them. If carpeting or furnishings become wet, they must be quickly and
thoroughly dried or discarded.
-
Keep humidity at low levels (less than 50 percent), and in areas
where moisture tends to build up, be sure there is adequate
ventilation.
-
Humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioning condensing units
should be regularly cleaned with a disinfectant. The EPA has a good fact sheet on this topic at
www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/humidif.html.
-
Vacuums with high-efficiency filters, or central vacuum systems,
can help reduce the airborne dust generated by vacuuming.
-
For more information, download the
Mold Information Sheet
(PDF 10KB).
The EPA
has numerous documents regarding mold and mildew remediation in homes and
office buildings. Refer to these EPA documents to learn more about mold
contamination and remediation.
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