When you think of Southern California, you tend to think of warm weather and sunny beaches. But the problem with living in a warmer climate is that it creates a more hospitable environment for mold growth. This presents potential issues when considering your work environment. If you have mold growing at the work place it could damage the building’s structural integrity as well as cause problems with your employees’ allergies and respiratory systems. Thankfully, the United States Department of Labor has issued some information about how to prevent mold so that your work environment can be up-to-date with the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
The key to preventing mold is to understand how it accumulates. Outdoors, mold can be found growing on dead trees, animals, and fallen leaves. Its purpose is to break down matter into basic nutrients that get transferred into the soil. The mold receives nourishment from the organic material and is reinforced by a source of moisture or water. Indoors, the mold typically grows on wood, carpet, dust, dirt, paper and food. Their source of water or moisture can originate from roof leaks, appliance leaks (such as washers, toilets and air conditioning units) and landscape or rain gutters that direct water into the building. Be sure to check any damp, dark and hidden spaces for signs of activity. If recognized and treated within 24-48 hours, an infestation could be prevented.
To further implement a mold-free work environment you must take action towards monitoring moisture levels in the building. Some easy steps to do so are as follows:
- Identify leaks, condensation, and wet spots. Find the source and have it repaired.
- Reduce your workplace’s humidity levels to below 70% (25 – 60% is best). This can be done by increasing ventilation, air circulation or by purchasing a dehumidifier.
- Follow local building codes. Make sure that moisture-producing appliances as well as bathrooms and kitchens are properly vented to the outside according to local codes.
- Maintain a regular inspection of the building and HVAC (heating/ventilating/air-conditioning). Make sure to keep the HVAC drip pans clean, flowing and available. Replace filters as needed.
Call us before there is a problem—we will work with you to create a strategic plan to minimize business interruption, no matter what the disaster. We have the big-business qualifications that allow us to handle large commercial projects, combined with the customer service and local knowledge that you expect with a small, family-owned business. We will do what it takes to make sure you are not out of business a day, an hour, a minute longer than you have to be.
If you find an infestation in your building that has been unattended for too long, please contact our professionals right away. Our mold remediation services are second to none, and we provide all of Riverside, Corona and the Inland Empire with thorough and comprehensive cleaning to get businesses back up and running again in no time. Call now: (951) 270-5304