Mould Terms That Everyone Must Know

Mould is a seemingly innocuous fungus that grows in damp conditions and thrives in many common building materials. The problem is that prolonged exposure to mold growth actually has detrimental effects on human health. Another issue that we frequently encounter is that our clients are rarely aware of just exactly what the issues are or what to be on the lookout for. These are some mold terms that everyone must know so that they can understand how and why it is a threat to their health.

Allergen

First on the list is allergen. This is something that causes a defensive response from the body and irritates the immune system. Mould poses a danger because it acts as an allergen, irritating airways and the lungs.

Bioaerosols

A bioaerosol is an airborne agent of biological origin. In simpler terms it’s an organism that flies through the air. Bacteria, pollen, and mold spores all fall under this term. When airborne they are easily breathed in, and this causes both immediate allergy responses in sensitive individuals as well as long-term breathing issues.

Black mold

Many of our clients in Calgary don’t realise that there are many different kinds of mold. Black mold is one that you must be aware of. This mold, also known as toxic mold, is a sure sign of poor indoor air quality and is a step up in danger from its milder cousin. If you spot it, then call professionals immediately.

HEPA

High-efficiency particulate air filters are your ally in the fight against airborne particles. When breathed in, they can cause long-term health issues. A HEPA will remove 99.97% of airborne particles down to .3 micrometers in diameter.

Relative humidity

When we speak about relative humidity, we are talking about how humid the air is compared to the temperature. That is, how much water vapor is in the air compared to the temperature that you feel. This is important because mold thrives in humid environments.

Occupational exposure limit

There’s only so much mold that a worker can be exposed to, and the occupational exposure limit is that amount quantified in a number as per safety regulations. If you are a business owner, you should be aware of this regulation.

Mould is a dangerous but treatable fungus that occurs in many homes, and knowing the terms will help you better understand the dangers and the treatments we recommend. These are a few mold terms that everyone should know. Being prepared is the best way to fight back against mold in Calgary!