Indoor Air Quality, Mold, and Your Facility: What You Need to Know
It is no secret that mold is bad. However, mold is prevalent in buildings and facilities across the globe—and since a mold problem can be overwhelming and costly, many choose to ignore the problem rather than facing it head on.
So, let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions and learn why indoor air quality readings for mold are imperative for human safety in schools, offices, hospitals, hotels, and more.
What are the symptoms of mold exposure?
Symptoms and allergic responses to mold include hay fever-type symptoms, such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose and congestion, red eyes, dry skin, and skin rash—among others. In addition, mold may also induce asthma to allergic and non-allergic people as a result of inhalation.
What are the common sources of mold?
Poor ventilation, increased moisture, persistent humidity, and leaking pipes or roof as well as a buildup of condensation are common reasons why mold develops.
Facilities where IAQ & mold monitoring is most important
Facilities where these mold sources apply and would require IAQ and mold monitoring include schools, offices, hospitals, hotels, homes, etc.
Professional mold testing equipment & detectors
Here are a few instruments used for mold testing and detection:
- BioPump with Air-O-Cell or Via-Cell cassettes
- Flir – IR Camera
- Teslong - Inspection Camera
- Extech - Psychrometer Moisture Meter
Limitations to mold detection
There are technical limitations of air quality monitors when it comes to mold. In other words, air quality monitors measure the number of particles in the air, not what kind they are. Detection and identification of mold requires samples to be sent to a laboratory to identify the different types of mold present in a sample.
How to check and prevent mold growth
There are a few simple ways to check for and prevent mold growth, including:
- Ensure that facilities are cool and dry
- Keep areas well ventilated and dehumidified during high humidity events
- IAQ monitoring
Get Started with RAECO’s IAQ & Mold Testing Equipment Rentals Today
RAECO Rents supplies instruments from leading manufacturers for the collection of mold samples. At RAECO Rents, we have training materials on the site to get you up to speed and our support staff is available for any question you might have. RAECO Rents only charges you for the days that you have the equipment in your hands and not when it is in transit to or from. Get in touch today!