After the floods, watch out for the mold

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Posted on Fri, Jun. 30, 2006

After the floods, watch out for the mold

Free brochure available online

Wilkes Barre Times-Leader - Wilkes Barre,PA

http://www.timesleader.com/mld/timesleader/14942005.htm

American Industrial Hygiene Association

Fairfax, VA - When flooding occurs, the damage can be massive. But,

once the initial problems are handled, some less obvious but equally

troublesome problems can occur. One of these is mold growth caused

by water and moisture that may linger behind walls and in places

that are out of sight and out of mind. Mold needs moisture to grow

and becomes a problem only where there is water damage, high

humidity, or dampness. Mold can begin growing in moist areas within

48 hours, so drying indoor areas that may be waterlogged or flooded

is critical.

To assist homeowners and business owners who are struggling to make

their homes habitable again after hurricanes or flooding, the

American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) has made a free

brochure, " The Facts About Mold, " available online. Concerned

property owners can learn about the health effects of mold as well

as how to detect and stop mold growth by visiting www.aiha.org, and

clicking on Consumer Brochures in the left column. Hard copies of

the brochure are also available by calling AIHA at 703-849-8888.

How Do You Stop Mold Growth?

Controlling excess moisture is the key to preventing and stopping

indoor mold growth. Keeping susceptible areas in the home clean and

dry is very important. Ventilate or use exhaust fans (vented to the

outdoors) to remove moisture where it accumulates, particularly in

bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas. Clothes dryers should be

vented to the outside. Repair water leaks promptly, and either dry

out and clean or replace water-damaged materials. Lowering humidity

indoors helps prevent condensation problems. To lower humidity

during humid weather, use air conditioners and dehumidifiers. Proper

exterior wall insulation helps prevent condensation from forming

inside during cold weather.

For small mold problems, use detergent and water to wash mold off

hard surfaces, and dry completely. Replace moldy porous or absorbent

materials (such as ceiling tiles, wallboard, and carpeting). If you

do not see mold growth but notice a musty odor, mold may be growing

behind water-damaged materials, such as walls, carpeting, or

wallpaper. When cleaning mold, wear gloves, eye protection, and a

dust mask or respirator to protect against breathing airborne spores

(an N95 dust mask or respirator may be purchased in hardware

stores). If you have health concerns, consult your doctor before

doing any mold cleanup.

Health Effects of Mold

Small amounts of mold growth (such as mildew on a shower curtain)

are not a major health concern, but no mold should be allowed to

grow and multiply indoors. While most people have no reaction when

exposed to molds, large quantities of mold growth may cause nuisance

odors and health problems for some people. People who may be

affected more severely and quickly than others include infants and

children, the elderly, pregnant women, individuals with respiratory

conditions or allergies and asthma, and individuals with weakened

immune systems, such as chemotherapy patients or people with

autoimmune diseases.

Allergic reactions and irritation are the most common health effects

for individuals sensitive to molds. Flu- like symptoms and skin rash

may occur. Molds may also aggravate asthma. In rare cases, fungal

infections from molds may occur in people with serious immune

disease. Most symptoms are temporary and eliminated by correcting

the mold problem.

When to Call a Professional

Consumers dealing with extensive mold growth in their homes may wish

to consult with a professional experienced in mold evaluation and

remediation. Industrial hygienists are among the professionals

qualified to assess mold contamination. Visit the American

Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Web site at www.aiha.org and

click on Consultants/Consumers to search for mold professionals in

your state.