Mitigating Exposure Risks to Mold and Mycotoxins in the Built Environment

As mold grows, some, but not all types, may produce toxic byproducts known as mycotoxins under various conditions, warns the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Some of these molds are also commonly found in moisture-damaged buildings.

There are more than 200 mycotoxins from common molds that have been identified, and many more likely remain to be discovered. The amount and types of mycotoxins produced by a particular mold depends on many environmental and genetic factors.

EPA shares the following regarding potential health effects of exposure to mycotoxins:
Some mycotoxins are known to affect people, but for many mycotoxins little health information is available. Research on mycotoxins is ongoing. Exposure to mycotoxins can occur from inhalation, ingestion and skin contact. It is prudent to avoid unnecessary inhalation exposure to mold.

“There are numerous types of mold that have mycotoxin producing capabilities that are regularly found in indoors in places with water damage, humidity, or other moisture issues,” said Frank Selamie, President of CTSI. “More research examining exposure to mycotoxins thru inhalation is needed to fully understand the potential health effects for building occupants. It’s also important to note that exposure to elevated levels of mold, with or without mycotoxins, can act as an allergen, respiratory irritant, and even an asthma trigger for some asthmatics. Some types of mold can also cause fungal infections in people with a weakened or suppressed immune system.”

To help identify and mitigate exposure risks to mold and mycotoxins, the indoor environmental quality, infection control, and industrial hygiene professionals at CTSI offer building assessments, testing, monitoring, consulting, and training services. CTSI also recently sponsored an educational video about mycotoxins and mold that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/4i6cq2fsoYM

To learn more about this or other building science, infection control, 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

Contact via E-mail