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Building-related symptoms and molds: a two-step intervention study
N E Ebbehøj1, M Ø Hansen, T Sigsgaard
1Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. ne01@bbh.hosp.dk
Indoor Air
|January 21, 2003
Summary
Mold growth in buildings is linked to employee symptoms. Thorough cleaning after renovation significantly reduced mold and related health issues, improving workplace well-being.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Medicine
- Microbiology
Background:
- Poorly maintained buildings with moisture issues can harbor significant mold growth.
- Mold contamination is associated with various health complaints in building occupants.
- Understanding the relationship between mold and symptoms is crucial for workplace safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between mold contamination and building-related symptoms.
- To assess the effectiveness of renovation and cleaning interventions in reducing mold and symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Intervention study involving building walk-throughs and microbiological testing (surfaces, ventilation).
- Employee health assessments included questionnaires, clinical exams, peak-flow monitoring, and blood samples.
- Bronchial challenges were performed on a subset of participants.
Main Results:
- Initial assessment revealed severe moisture problems and high levels of Trichoderma and Phoma.
- Pre-intervention: 66% symptom score, 20% peak-flow variability.
- Post-renovation and cleaning: Symptoms reduced to 4%, peak-flow variability to 15%, with decreased mold levels.
Conclusions:
- Mold growth in buildings contributes to irritative and general symptoms among staff.
- Renovation and subsequent thorough cleaning effectively reduced mold contamination and associated symptoms.
- Adequate post-renovation cleaning is essential for symptom eradication and improved occupant health.