Definition

A rapidly growing, asexual reproducing fungus. All molds are types of fungi. There are thousands of mold species.

LifeCycle

Molds may go through a series of different reproductive stages. Molds reproduce spores when moisture is introduced into a structure. Molds may become dormant when moisture is reduced, but the molds do not die. The molds begin reproducing spores as soon as moisture again becomes available.

Colors

Molds assume a variety of vivid colors due to the pigments in the spores they produce for reproductive purposes.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Mold Exposure

The most common symptoms of fungal exposure are runny nose, eye irritation, cough, congestion, and aggravation of asthma. Fungi in buildings may also cause or exacerbate symptoms of allergies (such as wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, nasal congestion, and eye irritation), especially in persons who have a history of allergic diseases (such as asthma and rhinitis).

There are numerous reports linking adverse health effects in office workers and residents of homes and apartments to fungal contamination of the structures. Symptoms, such as fatigue, respiratory ailments, and eye irritations were typically observed in these cases.

ToxicMold

Some species of fungi and mold are believed to be toxic to humans. So called "Toxic" molds produce metabolites known as mycotoxins. Mycotoxins may have a variety of toxic effects when inhaled, ingested, or when they come into contact with skin.

All mold, regardless of toxin producing capabilities can cause allergic respiratory disease in sensitive individuals. Adverse health effects include fever, pneumonitis, asthma, and rhinitis.

Materials"

A wide variety of materials support mold growth. Building Materials include drywall, paint, paper, jute mating, carpeting and padding.

Possessions such as leather, clothing, bedding, wicker plant containers and furniture also support mold growth.

All materials supporting fungal growth must be remediated as rapidly as possible in order to ensure a healthy environment.

Site Clean Up

Repair of the defects that led to water accumulation should be conducted in conjunction with, or prior to fungal remediation. If the sources of moisture entering a structure are not eliminated, mold growth will resume as soon water moisture again enters a structure.

Specific methods of assessing and remediating fungal contamination should be based on the extent of visible contamination and non-visible contamination. Non-visible contamination can be assessed through the use of a variety of mold sampling techniques and laboratory testing.

The simplest and most expedient remediation that is reasonable, and which properly and safely removes all fungal contamination, should be used (See the New York City Health Department Guidelines published in 1993).