Tag Archives: Mold and Workers

Could Mold be One Cause of Sick Building Syndrome?

Could Mold be One Cause of Sick Building Syndrome?

Could Mold be One Cause of Sick Building Syndrome?

NYC mold remediation specialists get a lot of questions about mold and sick building syndrome (SBS). Is there a link?

A Controversial Diagnosis
SBS goes by many other names, including building-related illness and multiple chemical sensitivity. A controversial diagnosis, the role mold plays in the picture blossoms from two schools of thought:

– SBS doesn’t exist…
Symptoms are nonspecific with no proven cause or specific test for diagnosis, but believed to result from an unknown source inside a building (gases, bacteria, mold), leading to OSHA, EPA, and CDC intervention in which indoor air quality and work environment as related to the cause of workers’ illness must be investigated.

– SBS is a true disease…
Practitioners believing in the existence of this condition speculate causes could result from compounds within a building, including smoke, VOCs, radon, bacteria, and fungi, such as black mold, with reactions varying based on patient health/allergies/sensitivity.

Well-Known Health Consequences
Though SBS remains controversial, the deleterious health consequences of mold are not. Mold exposure is known to cause health issues, with the Institute of Medicine recognizing the link between indoor mold exposure and upper respiratory issues in otherwise healthy people.

Furthermore, the EPA recognizes building-related illnesses, using this terminology to identify health problems found in buildings where complaints of the negative health impact of buildings have been reported. They also recognize the need to identify the compounds in buildings that are at the root of the cause of complaints, including toxic gases, bacteria, mildew and mold.

Concerned that mold in your home or work environment is causing health issues? Contact the NYC mold remediation at Stern Mold for a free inspection today.

Employers – What You Need to Know About Mold in Your Building

Employers - What You Need to Know About Mold in Your Building

Employers – What You Need to Know About Mold in Your Building

When you’re an employer, you’re expected to provide your employees with safe working conditions. Mold growth can become a potentially serious health issue for workers, especially if you have a severe toxic mold problem. Find out more about what you know about mold and when to look into mold removal in New Jersey.

Mold Lawsuits

Mold-related lawsuits are a concern for any employer. Workers can become ill due to the presence of a serious mold problem, resulting in respiratory problems, skin problems and other health issues. Watching for signs of mold helps ensure that you have a mold issue dealt with promptly before it can cause these problems.

Signs of Mold Growth

One of the most noticeable signs of mold growth inside buildings is a moldy or mildewy odor. If this odor persists or when several employees complain about it, then it’s time to have your building inspected to determine if you have a mold problem and how serious it is. Other signs that can indicate a mold problem include health issues that occur among employees, such as nausea, lightheadedness, throat irritation, eye irritation or respiratory problems.

What to Do About a Mold Problem

If you suspect a mold problem, it’s important to locate it and identify how extensive it is. Mold experts should handle this to ensure that any mold problems are effectively dealt with. Keep in mind that mold grows in moist areas, which can include places that have leaks, moisture or humidity problems.

If you need mold removal in New Jersey, contact Stern Mold. We provide effective mold remediation services to lower the risk of health problems related to mold growth.

OSHA Guidelines on Mold in the Workplace

OSHA Guidelines on Mold in the Workplace

OSHA Guidelines on Mold in the Workplace

Residential mold problems often make the news headlines, but the stories don’t end there. Mold removal in New Jersey is equally important in office buildings, restaurants and other workplaces. While there are currently no federal regulations in place, OSHA offers helpful guidelines for dealing with workplace mold.

When Does Mold Become a Problem?

Mold spores are constantly present in the air, both indoors and outdoors. They generally have no effect unless they begin to colonize on an interior surface. If left untreated, mold can eventually cause serious health and structural issues.

What Causes Mold to Grow?

Water is the lifeblood of mold. Growth occurs in areas with excessive moisture, where a mold spore is more likely to come into contact with dampness. Risky workplace conditions include leaky pipes or roofs, and malfunctioning HVAC systems.

How Does Mold Impact Health?

Mold produces allergens that can trigger a number of upper respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes and scratchy throat. While people who suffer from allergies are most susceptible, those without allergies can still develop symptoms after prolonged exposure.

How Can Mold Be Prevented?

– Clean up water spills, leaks and floods immediately and repair any corresponding damage.

– Make sure that kitchens, bathrooms and moisture-generating appliances are properly vented according to code.

– Have HVAC systems inspected and maintained regularly.

– Schedule a professional mold assessment to identify risk factors and confirm the presence of mold.

Safe and Effective Mold Removal in New Jersey

Our proprietary MoldExterm program offers eco-friendly mold remediation and prevention with minimal disruption to your workplace. Contact Stern Mold to schedule a free mold inspection by one of our experienced technicians.