Mold

U.S. Department of Labor
Occupational Safety & Health Administration
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Mold

Molds are microscopic organisms found everywhere in the environment, indoors and outdoors. When present in large quantities, molds have the potential to cause adverse health effects.

Health Effects of Mold Exposure

Sneezing
Cough and congestion
Runny nose
Aggravation of asthma
Eye irritation
Dermatitis (skin rash)

People at Greatest Risk of Health Effects

Individuals with allergies, asthma, sinusitis, or other lung diseases.
Individuals with a weakened immune system (e.g., HIV patients).

How to Recognize Mold

Sight – Usually appear as colored woolly mats.
Smell – Often produce a foul, musty, earthy smell.

Preventing Mold Growth

Remove excess moisture with a wet-dry vacuum and dry out the building as quickly as possible.
Use fans to assist in the drying process.
Clean wet materials and surfaces with detergent and water.
Discard all water damaged materials.
Discard all porous materials that have been wet for more than 48 hours.

General Mold Cleanup Tips

Identify and correct moisture problem.
Make sure working area is well ventilated.
Discard mold damaged materials in plastic bags.
Clean wet items and surfaces with detergent and water.
Disinfect cleaned surfaces with ¼ to 1½ cup household bleach in 1 gallon of water. CAUTION: Do not mix bleach with other cleaning products that contain ammonia.
Use respiratory protection. A N-95 respirator is recommended.
Use hand and eye protection.

For more complete information:

Occupational
Safety and Health
Administration

U.S. Department of Labor
www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA

OSHA 3267-09N-05

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