Mold
Overview
Mold is an
all-encompassing term to describe the growths such as fungi,
mushrooms, rusts, mildew, and yeast. Molds are eukaryotic organisms
(have a defined nucleus) that lack flagella and reproduce by means
of spores. There are only a few places on earth that are
uninhabitable by mold. As an expected part of the environment, they
are present almost everywhere and vary naturally in genera and
concentrations based upon geographic locations and seasonal
conditions.
There are an
estimated 100,000 accurately described species of fungi and at least
as many species waiting to be discovered. Almost all of these fungi
are aerobes meaning they require oxygen to survive. They do not
ingest their food but rather absorb nutrients by attacking dead
organic matter or parasitizing living organisms. Many live in the
soil and take an active part in the decomposition of organic matter.
Unfortunately, many porous building materials such as drywall,
wallpaper, and insulation are either constructed of, or contain some
type of organic material.
When building
components become moist from flooding or excessive humidity the
fungi will initiate the reproductive phase of their life cycle and
produce spores. It is their ability to reproduce very rapidly
through these spores that make them thrive virtually anywhere. As
long as moisture is present, microbial growth will continue
unchecked until the moisture and/or nutrient sources are removed.
Certain fungi
or fungal products (i.e. mycotoxins) can be the primary causes of
human disease. Systemic, opportunistic or dermatophytic infections
can occur from over 100 species known to affect humans. However, the
majority of fungi found in the environment are unable to cause
infectious disease unless the exposed individual is severely
immunocompromised. The most common health effect from exposure to
fungi is allergy like symptoms, mucous membrane irritation,
headache, fatigue, and cold/flu-like symptoms.
High levels of
fungi in an indoor environment as compared to normal outdoor levels
are of particular concern. In the event that fungal contamination is
determined within a dwelling, a professional investigation is
essential to thoroughly evaluate the occupant space and determine
appropriate clean-up measures.
Source
www.aerotechlabs.com
IAQ Assessment
and Remediation
