Controversial evidence to link moulds producing mycotoxin — a toxic chemical — with cancer and heart disease has been unearthed by a team of 20 scientists at the World Health Organisation's Collaborating Centre for Mycotoxins.
For some people, inhaling spores from the stachybotrys species of mycotoxic mould can be fatal. For others it can cause cancer of the liver, lung and kidney, heart disease, brain haemorrhages and asthma — yet it is still widely accepted merely as a nuisance in the UK.
Mould proliferates in damp, humid conditions where temperatures average about 20°C. Buildings most at risk are those that have been damaged by floods or plumbing leaks, particularly when affected material is not cleaned properly or the leak goes undetected. Prolific breeding grounds for mould include cavity walls, under floorboards and behind wallpaper. But even when the mould can't be seen, the musty stench is difficult to mistake.
In the US deaths of seceral infants in flood-damaged housing have been linked to mould growths.
Remediation of toxic mould is a complex process. 'In some cases full protective suits and breathing apparatus must be worn while removing the offending organism', said Jeff Charlton, technical director at risk management specialist Phoenix Consultancy, which carries out mould and asbestos surveys. Once removed, toxic mould becomes 'controlled waste and has to be buried in special landfill sites'.
The mould should be removed under controlled conditions to avoid releasing the spores into the air. Trying to remove mould using bleach products is the worst action to take said Charlton. 'Dead mould is more toxic than flourishing or dormant mould,' he added.
In the US court settlements for victims of US$20-$30m are indicative of the concern shared by lawyers, contractors and insurers according to Charlton.
In the UK 'no win, no fee' solicitors have yet to issue civil proceedings against insurers or contractors. However, victims of mould exposure only need to prove on a balance of probability that they have been exposed.
Toxic mould is covered by the Health and Safety at work act, which states that as an employer you must provide a safe and healthy environment for your employees to work in.
Phoenix Consultancy 08700 789 999 or at www.phoenixconsultancy.com
Source
The Facilities Business