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. If mold is a problem in your school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
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.
The American Medical Association reports that poor indoor air quality (IAQ), also known as "Sick Building Syndrome," costs the American employers over $60 billion annually. This exorbitants cost is reflected by employee sickness, as a direct result of breathing airborne contaminants.
In the 1970's most buildings were constructed as air-tight structures to reduce energy costs. This virtually eliminated the circulation of outdoor air. Thus, now more than ever, airborne particles of dust and organisms such as FUNGI, YEAST, BACTERIA, MOLD AND MILDEW are trapped in our heating and air conditioning ducts. This also effects carpeting, walls and cieling tiles. These can cause both economic and aestetic problems such as spoilage, fouling, or offensive odors.
Eventually these irritants end up on the visible and unseen surfaces in our homes, businesses, schools, and hospitals. Small wonder that problems caused by poor indoor air quality plgue our society today.