Mold and Moisture in Schools
- This information is available in PDF in English.
Mold is one of the most commonly reported environmental health issues in New York State schools. Mold issues arise when buildings or materials in buildings have excess moisture. This can cause adverse health effects that negatively impact learning and working, such as sinus congestion, fatigue, headaches, and sore throat. The key to preventing mold is moisture control. Taking swift action to control mold and moisture will significantly improve overall environmental health.
Get Ahead of the Problem
Perform Visual Assessments
- Conduct routine building walk-throughs to look for issues that can lead to mold problems.
- Look for water damage or stains, wetness, dampness, or visible mold.
- Pay attention to leaks, drainage, and condensation where water could enter the building.
Perform Preventative Maintenance
- Fix leaks and sources of moisture as soon as possible.
- Clean and dry wet or damp spots within 24 - 48 hours.
- Use fans and a wet-dry vacuum to facilitate drying.
- Use cross ventilation to dry out the building.
- Clean carpets regularly and monitor them for mold growth.
- Discard damaged materials that cannot be cleaned such as carpeting, upholstery, drywall, tiles, or insulation.
- Clean hard surfaces with soap and rinse with clean water.
- Maintain ideal indoor humidity of 30% - 60% with the use of air conditioning or portable dehumidifiers.
- Cycle air conditioning when the building is vacant to mitigate high humidity year-round.
Remediate
Recognize Mold
- Air sampling is not necessary to detect mold in buildings.
- Mold can be identified through visual inspection.
- Molds have various colors depending on their life cycle and species and often appear fuzzy or slimy.
- Mold growth usually produces a distinct musty, earthy odor.
Prepare for Remediation
- Correct the water and moisture problems causing mold growth to prevent regrowth.
- Ensure the affected area is dry before proceeding with remediation. Visit Mold Remediation Guide.
- Isolate the moldy area by creating a containment area to avoid releasing mold outside the work area. Use exhaust fans to remove mold and dust from the contained area to the outdoors.
- Stage debris inside the work area and avoid tracking through other areas.
- Avoid unnecessary exposure by wearing personal protective equipment.
- Use an N95 respirator, disposable coveralls, gloves, and goggles.
Clean the Moldy Area
- Use a dry-wet vacuum or HEPA vacuum.
- Remove damaged materials carefully.
- Clean hard surfaces with soap and rinse with clean water.
- Ensure affected areas are completely clean and dry before rebuilding or repairing damage.
Health Effects of Mold
- Sneezing, eye irritation, congestion, runny nose, cough, and dermatitis.
- People with mold allergies or other underlying health conditions may have more severe symptoms.
