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Mould
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What are moulds? Moulds are members of the fungus family like mushrooms and yeast. There
are thousands of types of mould and they can be found almost anywhere,
indoors or out.
Many types of mould are beneficial such as penicillin and the yeasts
that are used in baking while others can be harmful to property or to
susceptible people.
How do they grow? Moulds require moisture, a food source such as cellulose and a suitable
temperature in order to grow. These conditions are often found in
bathrooms, kitchens, basements and other areas where moisture can
accumulate. Areas around such leaky windows and plumbing or around
condensation near water pipes and windows or cold walls are susceptible
to mould growth.
Are moulds hazardous to health?
There is little evidence that moulds are a health hazard to the general
public. However, some types of mould can affect human health in certain
conditions: Exposure to moulds can affect the health of susceptible persons at
specific exposure levels. People with mould allergies, asthma, immune
dysfunction and infants may be more susceptible to moulds.
Exposure to large numbers of mould spores over long periods of time is
more likely to have an adverse health effect in susceptible people.
How can the risk be reduced?
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Indoor moulds can be reduced by eliminating the conditions that allow
them to grow.
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Repair all moisture leaks
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Caulk around doors, windows, bathtubs and shower stalls.
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Properly ventilate high moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens
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Vent the clothes dryer outside
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Keep indoor humidity below 40% especially in winter.
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Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner in humid months
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Avoid carpeting in bathrooms and basements
How can mould be removed?
Clean small areas of mould with soapy water and then disinfect the area
with a solution of bleach and water( 1 cup(250 ml) of bleach in 1
gallon(4 litres) of water). Wait 15 minutes then dry the area
completely. Use a dust mask, rubber gloves and adequate ventilation when
removing mould. Areas larger than 10 square feet should be dealt with by a professional.
If an item cannot be cleaned, is too damaged or is disposable, remove it
from the building and discard it. Susceptible individuals should not attempt to remove mould as this may
trigger symptoms.
Links:
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
Tenant Protection Act
Maintenance & Standards, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety |
Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit
