Three South Jersey Elementary Schools Closed Due to Mold

Waterford Township’s school district closed all of its elementary schools after mold was detected by inspectors from Camden County Health and Human Services. The inspectors found visible mold on the chalk boards, water damaged tiles, and other problems, according the Courier Post.
 
The cleanup efforts will keep the schools closed until at least Wednesday. A school official explained that they are waiting to see how the cleanup progresses before determining when the buildings will re-open.
 
The news of the schools’ mold problems do not come as a surprise, notes the Courier Post—especially considering the recent wet weather and failing infrastructure of the schools. The heavy rains and flooding after Hurricane Irene only compounded the problems caused by a roof that had leaked for years in one school.
 
Other schools in the district, Atco and Thomas Richards, are now closed as they are undergoing inspection and remediation too.
 
Mold exposure can lead to a wide array of symptoms, depending on each individual’s sensitivity. Some people experience nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation, while others may have more severe reactions. Those who are immunocompromised or with chronic lung illnesses, such as obstructive lung disease, may develop mold infections in their lungs, according the Centers to Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A Waterford school official told the Courier Post that it was too early to know if students and staff have suffered any health effects from the mold.
 
“After the recent floods and rain, our laboratories are seeing an increased demand for mold testing,” states Joseph Frasca, Senior VP of Marketing at EMSL. “Founded in 1981, EMSL Analytical, Inc. has years of experience testing mold samples, so clients can be assured of our expertise.”
 
For more information on EMSL’s testing services, please contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com or email info@EMSL.com.
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental, food, and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.
 

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior VP of Marketing

EMSL Analytical Inc.

(1) 1-800-220-3675

jfrasca@emsl.com