Dormitory at Public University Closed for Academic Year Due to Mold and Moisture Concerns

A public research university in Virginia recently declared the closure of a freshman dormitory for the remainder of the academic year. The announcement followed a statement by officials the previous month to students that reported the university was assessing and responding to reported concerns related to humidity, moisture, and mold in the dorm.

In the closure notice, university officials stated:

Out of an abundance of caution and in an effort to address the elevated mold levels with appropriate remediation and cleaning, we have determined that it will be necessary to close Johnson Hall for the remainder of the academic year.

Cases like this can occur quickly since mold can begin to grow in as short as 48 hours due to the presence of water, moisture, and/or elevated humidity levels. Students or anyone exposed to elevated levels of mold may experience a multitude of health concerns. This is due to the fact that molds produce allergens, irritants and in some cases, toxic substances known as mycotoxins. Inhaling or touching mold or mold spores may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Exposure to mold can even trigger an asthma attack in some people with the condition.

“To prevent mold growth it is essential to control indoor moisture and humidity levels,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “To help in these efforts, EMSL offers a myriad of inspection tools, such as moisture meters, infrared cameras, and humidity sensors. Our laboratories, located across the United States and Canada, also provide comprehensive testing for mold and other potential contaminants associated with water issues. In addition, EMSL offers all of the sampling supplies needed and even carries a line of easy-to-use test kits to identify a number of common indoor environmental quality issues.”

To learn more about mold or other indoor environmental quality (IEQ) testing services and inspection tools, please visit www.EMSL.com, email  info@EMSL.com  or call (800) 220-3675. To access IEQ test kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com. 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA-LAP, LLC (AIHA-LAP, LLC EMLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC IHLAP, AIHA-LAP, LLC ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP, and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail