Mould in the workplace can have serious health implications for employees and should be addressed promptly. In this blog post, we discuss mould, the dangers it poses to people and how to prevent it.
What is mould?
Mould is a type of fungus that grows in the form of multicellular filaments known as hyphae. It is a common type of fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors, and it thrives in warm, damp, and humid conditions.
There are many different types of mould, each with its own unique characteristics and health effects. The most common types of mould include:
- Aspergillus
- Penicillium
- Cladosporium
- Alternaria
- Fusarium
- Chaetomium
What are the dangers of mould?
Mould in the workplace can have serious health implications for employees. When mould grows indoors, it can cause various health problems, such as:
Respiratory Issues: Mould spores can irritate the lungs and cause respiratory problems, such as coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. This can be particularly problematic for employees with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Allergic Reactions: Mould spores can also trigger allergic reactions, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. Some employees may be more susceptible to allergic reactions than others.
Headaches and Fatigue: Exposure to mould can cause headaches and fatigue, which can impact an employee’s ability to concentrate and perform their job duties effectively.
Infections: In some cases, exposure to certain types of mould can lead to infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
It is important to note that mould can have a variety of colours and appearances, and it can be difficult to identify the specific type of mould without proper testing. If you suspect that mould is present in your workplace, it is important to contact a professional for an assessment and remediation plan.
How to prevent mould
Mould growth in homes and buildings is usually caused by water damage, excessive moisture, or humidity. To completely eliminate mould and prevent it from returning, you must first identify the source of the mould and act accordingly. For example, if your mould is a result of water entering the building through a damaged roof, you must first repair the roof and then deal with the mould.
To prevent mould growth, it is important to maintain proper ventilation, reduce humidity levels, fix any water leaks or damage promptly, and regularly clean and dry areas that are prone to dampness.
Need our help?
Are you looking for a professional cleaning contractor? We are experienced in cleaning water-damaged buildings and removing all types of mould in the workplace. Get in touch with our team to discuss how we can help you.
