Employees generally try to be on the lookout for dangerous hazards in their workplace. The risks posed by poorly labeled chemicals or poorly maintained equipment are obvious enough, but what about problems that may be difficult or impossible to detect under normal circumstances? Mold can grow on the ceiling or inside walls, causing health problems for workers but remaining completely hidden.
Mold spores are constantly present in the environment – there are over 1,000 species in the US alone. However, when mold spores take hold and start to grow indoors, some problems can develop. Mold consumes organic materials and can create unpleasant odors and colors and, in wood-frame buildings, can cause structural integrity problems. Mold does not need sunlight to grow. All it requires is moisture and a source of feeding material, which means colonies, can easily establish themselves in dark, hard-to-find areas of buildings.
Most of the health effects of mold in the workplace are fairly typical of allergic reactions. Persistent runny nose, red eyes, scratchy throat, and other hay fever-like symptoms may indicate that a person has been working with toxic mold. Mold can also cause skin or mucosal infections. Systemic infections can be a risk for people with existing immune problems. People who are seriously allergic to mold can experience respiratory problems, including asthma attacks.
Although public awareness of mold's potential to cause health problems has increased considerably, there are no federal regulations regarding airborne concentrations of mold in the workplace. That doesn't mean mold can't make you sick. Your employer must keep the workplace free of leaks, standing water, areas of high condensation or humidity, and dirty HVAC systems to prevent mold growth. If you notice water damage, musty or moldy odors, or leaks, or if your co-workers have complained of the symptoms listed above, you should tell your employer that you are concerned there may be a mold problem.
Mold remediation is not done until you have taken steps to prevent mold from coming back. That means dealing with any remaining moisture issues in the basement and keeping the space as ventilated as possible. And now that you know what to watch out for, you can contact a professional at the first sign of mold growth. A mold-free workplace is safe and healthy for everyone.
Remediating a serious mold infestation is no easy task. Due to the costs of locating and completely cleaning up the mold, your employer may be reluctant to investigate the situation. If they refuse, you may need to consider taking legal action to ensure your workplace is safe and that you receive the compensation you may deserve.
