Mold in schools

We only want our kids to be in the world’s safest places. Most of his time is spent in his school. What will you do if his school is infected by the toxic mold?

Over the past several decades, there has been an evolution in our construction standards that have made school structures tightly sealed to avoid water leaks. We all know that plumbing leaks could result to excessive moisture. And when there is moisture, molds can thrive very rapidly. Mold presence, as known to most, could cause several health problems such as pulmonary hemorrhage, head aches, asthma attacks, skin allergies, chronic fatigue, nose bleeding and many more. However, despite the tighter seals that the construction technology has developed for schools, several instances have proven to not keep moisture from escaping and developing in schools.

Schools are relatively vulnerable to mold infestations. Apart from the presence of moisture, postponed school maintenance due to financial problems and mold-prone set-ups such as portable classrooms help make mold infestation realized even faster than usual. So what are schools supposed to do to prevent mold?

Moisture control – Without moisture, mold growth is almost impossible. All areas with consistent steady water in the campus should be properly ventilated. Shower rooms should have exhaust fans or at least an open window to provide a way for moisture to escape. Drinking fountains should be located in areas which could be cleaned up easily through wiping. Water spills especially on carpets can result to rapid mold growth and development. Note that when absorbent areas are infected, clean up is even more difficult so the all the more that spills on carpets should be avoided.

Mold check – What are the signs of mold? Speckled dark patches on hard surfaces and watermarks on the ceiling are visual indication of mold infestation. Cleaning personnel in schools should be advised and instructed of proper mold monitoring. Immediate action should be done as soon as detection is confirmed.

Mold response – Initiate a regular cleaning check-up throughout the campus. In doing so, make sure to use natural cleaning products. Unlike commercial cleaners which contain hazardous chemicals further causing health problems as well, green mold killers are safe and harmless – not only to the environment but to the students more importantly.