Mold in Schools

4/2/2018 (Permalink)

maintaining water leaks, moisture problems and poor air quality should be the main focus at any large facility.

Mold growth in schools is not a new subject. In fact, just last year a large township in NJ was forced to close its schools for months due to mold contamination.  That is why in any large facility like a school or commercial building, the importance of maintaining that facility to deter water leaks, moisture problems and poor air quality should be the main focus.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the key to mold control is moisture control. Solve moisture problems before they become mold problems!

Mold Prevention Tips

• Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible.
• Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix source(s) of moisture problem(s) as soon as possible.
• Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in air (humidity). To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid).
• Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly and unobstructed.
• Vent moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible.
• Maintain low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity (RH), ideally 30-50%, if possible.
• Perform regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance as scheduled.
• Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
• Don't let foundations stay wet. Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation.

Potential health concerns are an important reason to prevent mold growth and to remediate/clean up any existing indoor mold growth.

According to the National Clearing House for Educational Services, the following symptoms may be caused by mold allergies:

• Nasal or sinus congestion
• Sensitivity to light
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Skin irritation (rash or itching)
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Watery, reddened, or burning eyes
• Fatigue

Damp buildings and mold growth are recognized triggers of asthma attacks. 

Obviously staying on top of moisture issues is the key to keeping mold under control.
Should your school or commercial building need mold remediation, remember that SERVPRO has specially trained technicians that can handle the job. No job is too large or small, and we are available 24/7.

For more information, check out these links:

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

http://www.ncef.org/pubs/mold.pdf