Preventing Mold-Related Problems in the Indoor Workplace - Seton ...
Preventing Mold-Related Problems in the Indoor Workplace - Seton ...
Preventing Mold-Related Problems in the Indoor Workplace - Seton ...
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Build<strong>in</strong>g Evaluation<br />
What to do if you suspect that your build<strong>in</strong>g has mold<br />
You should look for and elim<strong>in</strong>ate <strong>the</strong> source of moisture problems<br />
<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> build<strong>in</strong>g. As stated earlier <strong>in</strong> this document, moisture<br />
problems can have many sources, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g uncontrolled humidity,<br />
roof leaks, and landscap<strong>in</strong>g or gutters that direct water <strong>in</strong>to or<br />
under <strong>the</strong> build<strong>in</strong>g. Unvented combustion appliances and stand<strong>in</strong>g<br />
water follow<strong>in</strong>g a flood are o<strong>the</strong>r sources. Also, you should remove<br />
all visible mold. Visible mold on external surfaces, especially on<br />
<strong>the</strong> walls of a build<strong>in</strong>g, may be an <strong>in</strong>dicator of more severe contam<strong>in</strong>ation<br />
beneath <strong>the</strong> surface. However, mold removal without also<br />
<strong>the</strong> correction of <strong>the</strong> underly<strong>in</strong>g water/moisture problem would not<br />
be effective s<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> mold would just grow back. If a greater<br />
problem is suspected, or a moisture problem has resulted <strong>in</strong><br />
extensive fungal growth, an environmental <strong>in</strong>vestigation with<br />
emphasis on physical <strong>in</strong>spection is recommended (14). An<br />
experienced professional should be consulted to evaluate <strong>the</strong><br />
situation and recommend or supervise <strong>the</strong> proper corrective<br />
action.<br />
Select<strong>in</strong>g a qualified professional who can assist <strong>in</strong><br />
provid<strong>in</strong>g a safe and healthful work environment<br />
Occupational safety and health professionals are typically able to<br />
evaluate a build<strong>in</strong>g for mold, whereas occupational health care professionals<br />
are qualified to assess and treat illnesses and <strong>in</strong>juries.<br />
OSHA Publication 3160, The Occupational Health Professional’s<br />
Services and Qualifications: Questions and Answers, provides a<br />
thorough discussion of <strong>the</strong> roles of occupational health physicians,<br />
occupational health nurses, <strong>in</strong>dustrial hygienists, <strong>in</strong>dustrial eng<strong>in</strong>eers,<br />
safety professionals and o<strong>the</strong>r occupational health professionals<br />
(15). This document is available at: http://www.osha.gov/<br />
Publications/osha3160.pdf<br />
Occupational physicians must have completed additional<br />
tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> occupational medic<strong>in</strong>e beyond <strong>the</strong> qualifications<br />
necessary for medical doctor or doctor of osteopathy licensure.<br />
12
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