Exposure Risks to Mold and Mycotoxins in Puerto Rico’s Homes and Buildings

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that as molds grow, some, but not all, may under various conditions produce toxic byproducts known as mycotoxins. The agency warns that some of these molds are also commonly found in moisture-damaged buildings.

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

Regarding potential health effects of exposure to mycotoxins, EPA states the following:
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.

“Numerous types of fungi with mycotoxin producing capabilities are found in homes and buildings that have suffered from water damage or humidity issues,” said Harry Pena, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “You can’t tell whether a mold is producing mycotoxins just by looking at it, but there are ways to test for them. It’s also important to note that exposure to high concentrations of mold, with or without mycotoxins, can act as an allergen, respiratory irritant and even an asthma trigger for some asthmatics. Some types can also cause opportunistic fungal infections in vulnerable populations.”

Facility managers, property owners and tenants concerned about potential exposure to mold, mycotoxins or other indoor environmental quality (IEQ) issues can turn to the experts at Zimmetry Environmental. Their professionals offer comprehensive testing, monitoring and consulting services to identify, mitigate and eliminate these types of hazards in all types of buildings. Zimmetry also recently sponsored an educational video about mycotoxins and mold that can be seen at: https://youtu.be/4i6cq2fsoYM

To learn more about Zimmetry Environmental and their IEQ, industrial hygiene, and compliance testing and consulting 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

Contact via E-mail