Zimmetry Environmental Shares the EPA’s 10 Things to Know about Mold with Residents of Puerto Rico

There can be mold contamination issues almost anywhere that people live and work, but this is especially true in places with tropical climates that are subject to elevated humidity levels, hurricanes and tropical storms. Fortunately, today most people recognize that living, working or going to school in an environment with elevated mold levels can impact their health. The presence of mold can also negatively affect property values and result in expensive repairs and remediation.
 
A number of government agencies have published information and tips to help educate the public about indoor mold issues. This includes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Ten Things You Should Know about Mold. The EPA list includes:
 

1. Potential health effects and symptoms associated with mold exposures include allergic reactions, asthma and other respiratory complaints.
2. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores in the indoor environment; the way to control indoor mold growth is to control moisture.
3. If mold is a problem in your home or school, you must clean up the mold and eliminate sources of moisture.
4. Fix the source of the water problem or leak to prevent mold growth.
5. Reduce indoor humidity (to 30-60%) to decrease mold growth by venting bathrooms, dryers and other moisture-generating sources to the outside; using air conditioners and de-humidifiers; increasing ventilation, and using exhaust fans whenever cooking, dishwashing and cleaning.
6. Clean and dry any damp or wet building materials and furnishings within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth.
7. Clean mold off hard surfaces with water and detergent, and dry completely. Absorbent materials such as ceiling tiles, that are moldy, may need to be replaced.
8. Prevent condensation: Reduce the potential for condensation on cold surfaces (i.e., windows, piping, exterior walls, roof, or floors) by adding insulation.
9. In areas where there is a perpetual moisture problem, do not install carpeting (i.e., by drinking fountains, by classroom sinks, or on concrete floors with leaks or frequent condensation).
10. Molds can be found almost anywhere; they can grow on virtually any substance, providing moisture is present. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet, and foods.  

 
“Although there is much more to know about indoor mold issues and how to prevent them, this list is a good start,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “For those who suspect they may have mold or other indoor air quality issues, Zimmetry is here to help. We offer comprehensive building assessments, air quality testing services and provide the expertise to ensure any problems that are discovered are resolved. The end result is a healthy indoor environment and happy building occupants.”
 
Zimmetry recently sponsored an educational video that discusses the EPA’s Ten Things You Should Know about Mold that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/jGTK9T27ThU
 
To learn more about Zimmetry’s building science and indoor environmental quality testing or other consulting and compliance services, please visit www.zimmetry.com, call (787) 995.0005 or email info@zimmetry.com .
 
About Zimmetry Environmental
Since 2002, Zimmetry Environmental has been providing environmental consulting services to building owners and managers, architects, engineers, EHS professionals and Fortune 500 companies.  The company is based in Puerto Rico and provides services across the Caribbean and Central America.  The professionals at Zimmetry offer environmental compliance, indoor air quality, asbestos, lead-based paint, Phase I ESAs and general environmental consulting services.

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

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