Why do you need it?
Mould (also called fungi or mildew) is an organism that belongs to the fungi kingdom. To replicate, mould produces tiny particles called spores. These spores, similar to the seeds of a plant, only much smaller, are carried in the air until they settle on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. If the spores land on a moist surface under the right conditions, such as with suitable water, food, temperature and oxygen, the mould begins to grow.
Mould grows on various surfaces such as wood, paint, walls, wallpaper, fabric, ceilings, bathroom tiles, carpets, insulation material, around windows and pipes. Mould absorbs substances (organic material) from these surfaces, eventually destroying them in the process. Left unchecked mould erodes building materials, furnishings and can cause structural damage to buildings
Mould at the workplace can be a health and safety hazard that could be putting your workers at risk.
What are the hazards?
Mould is present in both indoor and outdoor environments as part of the natural environment. When allowed to grow uncontrolled the presence of mould can be a potentially serious health hazard at workplaces.
People will react to mould exposure differently, depending on factors such as the amount of mould an individual is exposed to, the species of mould present and a person’s own level of health and sensitivity.
Mould can cause:
- infections and disease
- poisoning – as some moulds are toxic to humans and
- allergic reactions (mild to severe).
If mould is present at the workplace, it requires immediate attention and action regardless of the severity of any reactions workers may be experiencing.
How does it work?
We recommend a review of mould contamination at the site of concern. Our team will:
- undertake a site visit
- review any documentation
- arrange mould sampling if required
- interview any staff complaining of health issues/concerns
- provide a risk assessment report including recommendation for remediation if required
- provide risk communication to effected workers
- optional consultation for those wishing to discuss personal health issues.
