Health
When combating mold, Brigette Michel-Finlay, dealer/owner of A&J Home Hardware, recommends natural products when appropriate.
BOLD MOLD
JUDI KOSKI
Fall 2009 |
The extent of symptoms depends on the sensitivity of the exposed person. Infants and children, pregnant women, people with compromised immune systems, those with existing respiratory conditions, individuals with allergies, and the elderly are the most susceptible for health problems due to inhaling mold spores.
“There are many types of mold, which are ubiquitous in the environment both inside and outside. For many people, mold is not a problem; however, mold can be a possible health hazard. It is dependent on the person’s susceptibility. Some people have a reaction to mold, some do not,” says Burgess Hawkins, manager of the Sudbury and District Health Unit’s environmental health division.
“Besides the person’s reaction to mold, variables that affect the mold’s effects include the amount, accessibility, concentration and type of mold.”
If there is visible mold in a home or camp, the Sudbury & District Health Unit suggests it be removed.
People with concerns about possible associated health risks and symptoms should consult their doctor.
Stachybotrys is the scientific name for black mold. It is a greenish-black fungal growth that puts down roots in damp and water - damaged walls, floors and furniture. This is just one of the types of mold that can grow in the home, but it is the most toxic.
How does mold get into the home? Mold loves dampness and humidity and it takes up residency in basements and bathrooms. It also likes to grow pretty much anywhere: in walls, cement, drywall, carpets, grout, wallpaper, within air conditioners, ductwork, a decorative pile of wood beside the fireplace, and even on clothes.
To reproduce, colonized mold releases tiny mold spores that float through the air until they attach to a moist indoor surface, grow roots and multiply. The spores are also easily transported to different areas in the home by attaching themselves to various hosts such as people, animals and shoes. Spores can even enter through open windows and doors.
Traditionally, homeowners have tackled mold with bleach solutions. While still used, this approach can leave users exposed to chemicals.
“With all the environmental issues and concerns today, I feel this may not be the best product. There are environmentally preferable solutions,” says Brigitte Michel-Finlay, dealer/owner of A & J Home Hardware.
“I always recommend natural products. After all, it is the future of our children that we are protecting,” she adds.
Once the mold has been removed, there is still work to do. It is important to find the cause of the problem and to fix it to prevent future spread of mold.
Local home improvement retailers and contractors can provide information about do-it-yourself products or it may be necessary to hire a professional mold detection and clean-up service. People can also get information from the Sudbury Health Unit at 522-9200 or access information from a variety of websites including Health Canada, CMHC (Canadian Mortgage & Housing Corporation) and EPA (Environment Protection Agency).
