Mold In The Workplace
Mold in the workplace is no laughing matter! After all, we spend a considerable amount of time at our jobs. If employees are being exposed to mold in the workplace, it can have a negative effect on their finances, health, and overall stress level. No one should have to put their health at risk at the benefit of their employer. It is smart to be vigilant if you believe there might be mold in the workplace, whether you are an employee or the employer.
signs of mold at work
Do you think there might be a risk of mold exposure in the workplace? Mold thrives in warm, damp spaces without proper air flow. If the business recently experienced water damage, does not have proper ventilation, has a high level of humidity or the building is in general disrepair, mold could be growing. There are some signs that you can look for to see if there is a clear mold issue. Keep in mind that only a professional mold remediation company can make an accurate assessment.
Do you notice a leak in the roof or a busted pipe? Is it very humid in the workplace, or have you noticed discoloration anywhere on the walls? Is there a musty smell, or have you noticed condensation forming in the building? These are all signs that the conditions are right for mold to be growing.
sick building syndrome
Are you only experiencing symptoms while you’re at work? Sick Building Syndrome is a phenomenon in which people experience health issues while inside of a building, but are relieved after leaving. Some common signs of mold exposure in a work place include respiratory irritation or allergy symptoms such as nasal and eye irritation, and asthma symptoms such as wheezing and shortness of breath. Repeated exposure to mold can also result in brain fog which has the ability to affect the employees performance at work.
action steps after finding mold
It’s important to take charge of your health if you think you are being exposed to mold in the workplace. See a doctor if you’re experiencing discomfort that can’t be traced back to another irritant in your daily life, especially if it gets noticeably worse when you’re on the clock. The only way to get an accurate diagnosis of the problem is to bring in a mold remediation company. This should be done at the very first sign of mold in the building. Otherwise, the problem will continue to get worse as time progresses, as well as the health symptoms.
how to prevent mold
The good news is that mold in the workplace is very preventable. When you prevent moisture intrusion, you also prevent mold. Make sure the building is in good condition with no leaks coming from the roof, walls, or pipes with regular inspections. Be sure that the humidity of the building is in check, as high humidity means more moisture is in the air. Remember, if there are signs of moisture, it’s vital to correct the problem as soon as possible.