Biological pollutants, including mould (fungi), amplify in the built environment where there is poor ventilation or water ingress.
Mould growth in indoor environments poses a complex challenge. It affects both the structural integrity of buildings and the health of their occupants. Once sufficiently established, mould begins the rapid production of spores as part of its lifecycle, contaminating air and surfaces. These spores can also cause the growth of allergen causing dust mites, further compounding indoor air quality.
The health implications of mould exposure to both spores and mould fragments (hyphae, detritus) can range from mild allergic reactions to severe respiratory and immunological responses. Common symptoms include allergy-like symptoms such as sneezing and itchy eyes, inflammation of airways, asthma exacerbation, and sensitisation of the immune system. Some moulds produce mycotoxins that can lead to more serious health problems, particularly in immunocompromised persons, such as children, the elderly, and those in palliative care.
Therefore, it’s particularly important that employers and building owners of child-care and other special-care environments are aware of the negative health effects that mould and other microbial pollutants can have on vulnerable population groups.
So if you smell mould, we recommend getting your air quality tested.
Large infestations of mould can often be seen or smelled. Some people find the smell extremely unpleasant. As mould grows, it can emit gases known as microbial volatile organic compounds or MVOC’s. Technically, it’s not just mould you are smelling but the chemical compounds that are released at different stages of the mould’s growth.
Our Vertex Analytics’ occupational hygiene specialists are skilled in conducting mould identification, including mould testing, mould inspections and analysis, and risk assessment. We will design a tailored management plan to remove the mould safely and effectively and provide a permanent solution to correct the source of the problem.
It’s not always possible to remove the musty mould smell through domestic cleaning methods. If you think you have mould, we recommend having your mould or microbial issue tested and inspected by an expert.
If you suspect mould in the home, either in air or on surfaces, contact Vertex Analytics to arrange a professional sampling strategy. We also welcome and encourage clients to submit their own samples, either as pieces of building material (such as a piece of mouldy plaster or wood chip) or as a clear cello-tape lift. Such samples may be zip locked bagged and submitted by use of the following Chain of Custody Document for analysis of mould present and spore count:
So for more information on collecting your own samples, contact the mould assessments at the Vertex laboratory.
Case Study
Vertex Analytics' mould assessment, microbial testing and inspection services include
- Humidity level correction
- Maintenance issue repair
- Installation of new ventilation systems,
- Industrial cleaning and drying after flooding
- Physical removal of mould infested materials
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