What can you do if you have a mould outbreak?

There are a number of things you can do when faced with mould. Active mould can be colourful and damp, slimy and web-like and have a musty odour. Inactive, or dormant mould is dry and powdery.

You should isolate affected materials. If the infestation is large, quarantine the area.. This minimises the spread of mould, and it protects those persons who may have allergies or respiratory problems from harm.

Determine the source of the outbreak. Check the humidity and temperature. The chances are that, for a large infestation, the cause at least partially lies there. Also look for a source of water, such as an unnoticed leak, a broken window, moisture along outside walls. A third place to check is the heat-exchange coils in the heating/air conditioning system; they are a prime area for fungus growth and spore distribution.

Increase air circulation and lower humidity. Open windows, provided it is not raining outside and the relative humidity outside is lower than that inside.

Health Issues. Some moulds can cause serious health problems including respiratory infections, headaches, nausea, and eye and skin irritation. People predisposed to upper respiratory problems such as allergies and asthma should not be exposed to areas affected with mould, even if they wear a respirator. For health reasons, even a small mould outbreak should be taken seriously. You should wear disposable rubber or plastic gloves, coveralls and a respirator whenever handling mouldy materials. Ordinary dust masks are not sensitive enough to filter mould spores, use a respirator with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate arrestant) filter. Be aware that respirators are ineffective if used improperly, for example people with facial hair will not be protected because they can't get a tight fit. Training staff about proper fitting and use of respirators is essential. Wash protective clothing in hot water and bleach.

1. Determine the cause: check temperature and relative humidity levels; check to see if the material has been wet and, if so, why; check heat-exchange coils in air conditioning units.

2. Isolate materials: place individual items in sealed plastic bags; quarantine stacks; for large and heavy infestations, it may be necessary to restrict access to the building/room. Don't leave materials in plastic bags for extended periods of time, follow up with cleaning as soon as possible. .