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Safety and Health Topics |
Molds and Fungi |
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In Focus |
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Poor indoor air quality is one of the most important health
issues we face today. Molds and fungi are found in virtually every
environment and can be detected, both indoors and outdoors, year round. The
number of species of existing molds and fungi is estimated from tens of
thousands to three hundred thousand or more. Molds and fungi produce and release
millions of spores small enough to be air-, water-, or insect-borne. They can
also produce toxic agents known as mycotoxins. Spores and mycotoxins can
have negative effects on human health including allergic reactions, asthma and
other respiratory problems.
This page is maintained as a product of the
Alliance between
OSHA and the American Biological Safety Association (ABSA). The following
questions link to safety and health information relevant to molds and fungi.
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In Focus |
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News Releases
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OSHA Issues Safety and Health Information Bulletin on Mold. OSHA Trade
News Release (2003, October 14), 2 pages. This bulletin
offers workers some basic information on how to prevent, control and remove
mold in buildings leading to the reduction of health risks.
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A Brief Guide to Mold in the Workplace. OSHA,
SHIB 03-10-10 (2003, October 14), 13 pages. This Safety and Health Information Bulletin (SHIB)
provides recommendations for the prevention of
mold growth and describes measures designed to protect the health of building
occupants and workers involved in mold cleanup and prevention.
OSHA Alliances
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OSHA, American Biological Safety Association Form Alliance. OSHA Trade
News Release (2002, September 23), 2 pages. The Occupational Safety and Health
Administration and the American Biological Safety Association (ABSA) have
established an alliance to collaborate in their common mission of protecting
health and preventing illness and injury in the workplace from biological hazards.
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American Biological Safety Association (ABSA). This is ABSA's homepage which
includes information on the Biological Safety Conference and upcoming events.
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Revised: 24
September 2004 |
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