Since 1998, the Minnesota Department of Health Indoor Air Unit has received more than 7,000 calls concerning mold. Local public health agencies are also being asked more frequently to help with the problems of mold in homes and schools. When excess moisture is present mold problems can spread and proliferate rapidly. When it multiplies and spreads indoors, high levels of mold can cause a spectrum of health effects. Under favorable conditions, spores germinate and mold colonies grow and multiply.
Excess moisture is the underlying cause of indoor mold problems.
The key to prevention and correction is moisture control. The best way to identify a mold problem is by visual inspection and following odors. Testing can be quite costly when done properly. Testing to determine the kinds and amounts of mold present is rarely helpful. Goggles Rubber gloves Washable or disposable clothing Ventilate area well when using bleach Establish containment around the work area for large or heavily contaminated areas to minimize the spread of spores Prevention Controlling moisture is the key to preventing indoor mold growth.