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Molds and Fungi Safety and Health Topics
Molds and Fungi

In Focus
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.


Standards What standards apply?
OSHA | ANSI | IICRC
Hazard Recognition What are molds and fungi and what are their associated health effects?
Hazard Recognition | Health Effects
Detection Methods How do I detect molds and fungi in my workplace?
Detection Methods | Sampling and Analysis
Control and Clean-up How do I control and clean-up mold and fungal contamination?
Control | Clean-up Procedures | Mold Remediation
Additional Information Where can I find additional information?
Websites

In Focus
News Releases
  • 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.
    • 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
  • 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.
  • American Biological Safety Association (ABSA). This is ABSA's homepage which includes information on the Biological Safety Conference and upcoming events.

 
Revised: 24 September 2004
 
 
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