Reducing Exposure Risks to Microorganisms and Minerals from the Use of Humidifiers

During the cold winter months, the often dry, heated air inside offices, schools, and other indoor environments can cause physical discomfort to building occupants. These may include dry nose, throat, lips, and skin. Dry air brought on by winter heating can also cause conditions such as static electricity, peeling wallpaper, and cracks in paint and furniture.

To try and alleviate these conditions in commercial, institutional, and large residential buildings, HVAC engineers have a number of building humidifier options. In places where these system are not operating properly, or do not exist, building occupants may turn to portable humidifiers to create a more comfortable indoor environment.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does warn that excess moisture in the air can encourage the growth of biological organisms. These organisms include dust mites, which are microscopic animals that produce materials causing allergic reactions, and mold. The agency also states that microorganisms often grow in humidifiers which are equipped with tanks containing standing water. Breathing mist that contains these pollutants has been implicated as causing a certain type of inflammation of the lungs.

To address these concerns, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has released a Safety Alert about how dirty humidifiers may cause health problems. In it, CPSC reports that breathing dirty mist may cause lung problems ranging from flu-like symptoms to serious infections. Mineral exposure is also addressed in the Safety Alert. CPSC states that minerals can be released in the mist and settle as fine white dust, this dust may contain particles that are small enough to enter the lungs.

“At CTSI, our building science and indoor environmental quality professionals have decades of experience helping building owners and operators optimize indoor conditions for humidity, ventilation, and comfort,” said Frank Selamie, President of CTSI. “We also provide testing, training, and consulting services to mitigate exposure risks to microbial contaminants, particulate matter, chemicals, and other potential hazards.”

CTSI recently sponsored an educational video with tips to reduce the dispersal of microorganisms and minerals from humidifiers that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/yzJoi5XWZW8

To learn more about this or other building science, industrial hygiene, indoor air quality, environmental, health, and safety services, please visit www.ctsiweb.com, email contactus@ctsiweb.com , or call (212) 971-7016.

About CTSI
Established in 1992, Consulting & Testing Services, Inc. (CTSI) was founded on one strong commitment: to provide efficient and expert services to clients based on professionalism, innovation, and cost-effective expert solutions. This commitment has been furthered with CTSI’s reputation in fostering client relationships in all sectors of the Environmental, Health, Safety, and Construction industries. CTSI prides itself in utilizing a high quality service based on its diverse team of staff and professionals’ concise recommendations and solutions to the most pressing dilemmas. The company operates offices in New York and Florida that service clients across the United States.

Contact Information

Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

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