EHS and Rensselaer's Administration Portfolio strives to manage campus properties in a proactive manner to prevent conditions that support mold growth. The resources provided below offer measures that can be taken to prevent mold growth from occurring on a daily basis and after water damage.
Mold Prevention Guidance
Mold Prevention Tips:
- Fix leaky plumbing and leaks in the building envelope as soon as possible.
- Watch for condensation and wet spots. Fix source(s) of moisture problem(s) as soon as possible.
- Prevent moisture due to condensation by increasing surface temperature or reducing the moisture level in air (humidity). To increase surface temperature, insulate or increase air circulation. To reduce the moisture level in air, repair leaks, increase ventilation (if outside air is cold and dry), or dehumidify (if outdoor air is warm and humid).
- Keep heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) drip pans clean, flowing properly and unobstructed.
- Vent moisture-generating appliances, such as dryers, to the outside where possible.
- Maintain low indoor humidity, below 60% relative humidity (RH), ideally 30-50%, if possible.
- Perform regular building/HVAC inspections and maintenance as scheduled.
- Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 48 hours.
- Mold growth can occur within 24-48 hours after clean water damage.
- Don't let foundations stay wet. Provide drainage and slope the ground away from the foundation.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The EPA provides excellent guidance on mold. Table 1 of the EPA's Mold Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings guidance document provides an overview of the cleanup actions to follow after experiencing clean water damage. This document serves as a basis for the institutes water damage and remediation internal response protocols.
The recommendations in this table will greatly reduce the chance of mold growth, which can occur within 24-48 hours following water damage.
