NIOSH Posts New Indoor Environmental Quality Topic Pages
If you suspect you have mold problem in your building or are planning to tune up your HVAC system or renovate your whole facility, then NIOSH could be a helpful first stop for information. The agency has posted three new indoor environmental quality "topic pages" that discuss these issues and provide answers to frequently asked questions, along with suggestions for things you can do, resource links to follow, and other references on each of the following:
- Dampness and Mold in Buildings Topic Page--Dampness results from water incursion either from internal sources (e.g. leaking pipes) or external sources (e.g. rainwater). Dampness is a problem in buildings because it provides the moisture that supports the growth of bacteria, fungi (i.e., mold), and insects. Dampness problems are not always obvious when the affected materials and water source are hidden from view (e.g., wet insulation within a ceiling/wall or excessive moisture in the building foundation due to the slope of the surrounding land).
- Building Ventilation Topic Page--Building ventilation is the circulation of air throughout a building. The ventilation or the heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system of a building supplies and removes air either naturally (windows) and/or mechanically to and from a space. Building ventilation may be an important factor determining the relationship between airborne transmission of respiratory infections and the health and productivity of workers.
- Maintaining Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ) during Construction and Renovation Topic Page--Construction and renovation projects in office settings can adversely affect building occupants by the release of airborne particulates, biological contaminants, and gases. Careful planning for IEQ and the prevention of exposure during these activities is essential.
You can find the new topic page links at www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/default.html.