"Managing Asthma in the School Environment"

Environmental Asthma Triggers

Clean Up Mold and Control Moisture

Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. Outdoors, many molds live in the soil and play a key role in the breakdown of leaves, wood, and other plant debris. Without molds we would be struggling with large amounts of dead plant matter.   See also www.epa.gov/mold

Molds produce tiny spores to reproduce. Mold spores travel through the indoor and outdoor air continually. When mold spores land on a damp spot indoors, they may begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods. If excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, extensive mold growth may occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or un-addressed. 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 school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.

When mold growth occurs in buildings, it may be followed by reports of health symptoms from some building occupants, particularly those with allergies or respiratory problems. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma, and other respiratory complaints. 

Common Moisture Sources Found in Schools

Moisture problems in school buildings can be caused by a variety of conditions, including roof and plumbing leaks, condensation, and excess humidity. Some moisture problems in schools have been linked to changes in building construction practices during the past twenty to thirty years. These changes have resulted in more tightly sealed buildings that may not allow moisture to escape easily. Moisture problems in schools are also associated with delayed maintenance or insufficient maintenance, due to budget and other constraints. Temporary structures in schools, such as trailers and portable classrooms, have frequently been associated with moisture and mold problems.

Suggestions for Reducing Mold Growth in Schools

Reduce Indoor Humidity:

• Vent showers and other moisture- generating sources to the outside.
• Control humidity levels and dampness by using air conditioners and de-humidifiers.
• Provide adequate ventilation to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-60%.
• Use exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing, and cleaning in food service areas.

Inspect the building for signs of mold, moisture, leaks, or spills:

• Check for moldy odors.
• Look for water stains or discoloration on the ceiling, walls, floors, and window sills.
• Look around and under sinks for standing water, water stains, or mold.
• Inspect bathrooms for standing water, water stains, or mold.
• Do not let water stand in air conditioning or refrigerator drip pans.

Respond promptly when you see signs of moisture and/or mold, or when leaks or spills occur:

• Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours of occurrence to prevent mold growth.
• Fix the source of the water problem or leak 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.
• Check the mechanical room and roof for unsanitary conditions, leaks, or spills.

Prevent moisture condensation:

• Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation. 
• Floor and carpet cleaning:

Remove spots and stains immediately, using the flooring manufacturer’s recommended techniques. Use care to prevent excess moisture or cleaning residue accumulation and ensure that cleaned areas are dried quickly. 

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).

These action items are included on the following checklists found in the IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit:

• Ventilation Checklist, 
• Building Maintenance Checklist, 
• Administrative Staff Checklist, 
• Teachers Checklist, 
• Food Service Checklist, 
• Renovation and Repair Checklist

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