Toxic Mould in UK Buildings
Overview of Mould
Mould is everywhere on the planet and was flourishing before life as we know it. It is seen as the planet's clean up system where it can digest almost every material. It combats with bacteria to defend its food source and we use it for antibiotics such as Penicillium or cyclosporine A, used to stop transplant rejection . While mould has many useful purposes in our lives, it is considered a health hazard by the WHO World Health Organisation. The Americans have developed WMDs from various “Toxic” moulds too. Mould has affected humans health for thousands of years and is referenced in the Old Testament (Leviticus 13-15) where the bible provides the 4000 year old decontamination principles that are used today.
If you found this web site you probably already know about mould health effects but if you’re not convinced go to the following respected web sites for health information:
Why would you need our investigative services?
If you have damp, condensation or past or present water damage you probably have mould. It may be hidden in wall, ceiling or floor cavities; behind furniture cupboards in fact mould can grow just about anywhere if conditions are right. You may not see or smell it but it can still affect your health. Typical mould exposure can lead to the following in those with immune deficiencies, this includes the very young, old and people on long term prescription drugs. In fact it can have effects on almost anyone exposed and symptoms include:
- Flu like symptoms
- Itchy eyes, nose and burning skin
- Sore throat, running nose, cough and sinus issues
- Depression, general malaise fatigue
- Lung and liver issues
- Coughing blood
- Candida and general infections such as ringworm
If you have mould indicators or health concerns whether or not you can see mould they might be linked and our services may help you and your doctor identify contributing factors and indeed the presence type and quantity of mould and likely allergens.
We charge for investigations because we investigate the cause of mould, (building defect) measure the provide information on possible solutions and if required, sample air or cavities for live or dead (non viable) spores to assess if mould is toxic or at levels likly to be hazardous. Please be aware that no real stsndards on mould exposure exits at present and our reports will be subjective and aimed at assisting you with information on best current practice.
Moisture detection
Our investigation follows international protocols which include:
Identify the cause of the mould.
- Mould will only grow if their growth requirements are met and this almost always revolves around adequate moisture presence and we investigate possible sources which invariably are:
- Rising or penetrating damp
- Flood or leak issues
- Condensation or poor ventilation
We survey the property with a multitude of equipment ranging from thermal imaging cameras, ultrasonic moisture detection and as expert witness in this field you can be confident we will find the cause, but see our typical report sample too.
The importance of this survey cannot be overemphasised. It will provide a basis for the mould inspection type and procedure, and most importantly help identify the cause of the moisture to enable repairs or new control factors.
Mould detection
Mould can be found in two basic forms live or dead. Most often the toxins present in live mould are dispersed when it dies on tiny spore fragments which are easily inhaled. Therefore it is most important to investigate both live (culturable) and dead (non viable ) spores or fragments. This means we need to match the sampling method to the clients requirement and we will discuss this with you.
See the following services we provide (more details and cost in (Services)
- Dry swab (you can send us a sample for analysis)
- Non viable air sampling
- Culturable samples by contact or air sampling
- VOCs Infra red gas analysis (Some live moulds off gas chemicals which can be detected)
- On site Air and surface sampling with analysis within 1 hour (Not species specific)
Mould removal and decontamination
Mould should really only be removed after you have stopped or repaired the moisture problem because once established mould will always reappear with just a little moisture presence.
Mould removal should be viewed with the same care as asbestos removal and this fact is substantiated by international protocols such as Environmental Protection Agency and standards such as IICRC S520
There are new technologies available which provide fast and economic solutions such as steam and foaming agents. Bleach and toxic chemicals should usually never be used, except to areas of less than a square meter.see (Services)
Whatever method of mould removal is promoted or specified you should ensure that it has been undertaken with competence and adequate controls. The mould spores or their fragments which may be contaminated with toxins are invisible to the eye and can only be detected by air or surface sampling. We can undertake mould removal management of contractors and provide clearance sampling to ensure they have complied to the necessary standards
Mould prevention
Mould prevention is dependent on moisture control and barriers such as toxic paint should be seen as a temporary measure only.
Condensation control measures can take many forms and following our moisture survey we can provide useful information on the most economic and practical solution.
Mould prevention is dependent on moisture control and barriers such as toxic paint should be seen as a temporary measure only.
Condensation control measures can take many forms and following our moisture survey we can provide useful information on the most economic and practical solution.
Mould has, in recent years, become a significant health issue as buildings have become tighter with less ventilation or natural air leakage through chimneys or windows. This means that the average 15 litres of water per day generated by a family of four cannot escape and is invariably absorbed by porous materials. Offices can be even worse due to ventilation issues.
Porous materials
The increasing use of timber and plasterboard to replace brick and conventional plaster systems has meant that the plasterboard absorbs the moisture into its chalk like substrate and its paper facing provides the food necessary for mould growth often in cavities where it cannot be seen.
Toxic Mould
Of over 100,000 genus of mould, only 16 have been identified as pathogenic and can cause serious health concerns. Unfortunately these 16 have been identified in the homes and offices because of related illness. Toxic mould species are suspected, (not confirmed) of causing the following: