- Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures
include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints.
- There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the
indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control
moisture.
- If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold
and eliminate sources of moisture.
- Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
- Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60% ) to decrease mold growth by: venting
bathrooms, dryers, and other moisture-generating sources to the outside;
using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation; and
using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning.
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- Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings
within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
- Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry
completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are
moldy, may need to be replaced.
- Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on
cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or
floors) by adding insulation.
- In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not
install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom
sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
- Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually
any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that
can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.
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