Indoor Environmental Quality Education Service (IEQES)

Mold

What is mold?

Molds are types of fungi, and play an important role in the environment by breaking down organic matter-like leaves. Mildew is another word to describe mold. We all breathe in small amounts of mold daily and mold can grow both indoors and outdoors.  When mold spores are exposed to wet areas, mold can start to grow. You can find molds in places with water damage, high humidity and dampness. In most cases, mold will not grow if wet areas are dried within 24-48 hours of becoming wet.

What are “toxic molds” or “black molds”?

“Toxic molds” are molds that, under the right circumstances, have the potential to produce toxic compounds called mycotoxins.  Mycotoxins can cause a variety of negative health effects in both humans and livestock. Not all species of mold produce mycotoxins.

“Black toxic mold” can refer to a certain type of mold called Stachybotrys chartarum, also known as Stachybotrys atra. This type of mold usually grows on very wet materials due to long-term water problems (high humidity, water leaks, flooding etc.).  Constant exposure to moisture results in this type of mold to grow. 

Black is a color, not a type of mold. Therefore, not all molds that are black in color are Stachybotrys.  There is no medical test available to determine if you have been exposed to this type of mold.

Should I get my home tested for mold?

In most cases, we do not recommend testing for mold. Since no established federal limits have been set for mold or mold spores, sampling cannot determine a buildings compliance with federal standards.

If you see or smell mold in your home, the type or amount is not necessary to know, as it does not provide any useful information. Most importantly, testing for mold(s) does not indicate a health problem because there are no suggested “unhealthy levels” for mold spore concentrations.

Some professionals may recommend mold testing as part of their investigation, but it is not clear what useful information this is likely to give you.

If there is dampness/mold that you can see or smell, we recommend locating the moisture source(s) and fixing the underlying cause of the problem, rather than test for mold.

I have already tested my home for mold and have mold test results-what do they mean?

The inspector or laboratory that conducted testing should provide test results and interpretations. However, be cautious when considering these results, because it is not clear that mold testing determines anything about health risks, despite what the lab or inspector might say.

Are there any regulations for mold in Louisiana?

Currently, there are no federal regulations in place regarding Threshold Limit Values (TLVs) for airborne concentrations of mold or mold spores. For this reason, several states- including Louisiana have no set standards when it comes to mold.

How can I tell if I have a mold problem?

Mold and moisture problems may be visible or hidden. Visible areas could include surfaces or specific items in the building. Examples of places with hidden mold could be; beneath wallpaper, behind furniture, inside walls, behind baseboards, under carpet/flooring, inside cabinets etc.

Signs of mold or moisture in your home:       

• Water-stained, discolored, or moldy surfaces
• Water damage, such as warped floors, peeling or bubbled paint, or rotting wood or sheetrock
• Damp surfaces, including condensation on windows or walls
• An earthy, musty, or moldy smell

You may also have an issue if people who are sensitive or allergic to mold have symptoms when they are in your home.

Asthma

Asthma is a serious respiratory illness that affects the lives of over 25 million Americans. Keeping your environment free of asthma triggers is important for reducing serious attacks. Here are some tips on controlling common environmental triggers:

Secondhand smoke- secondhand smoke can trigger asthma attacks.

a. Keep children and people who suffer from asthma away from smokers
b. Encourage family members to quit and ask them to smoke outdoors away from anyone with asthma

Resources for quitting smoking: Louisiana Tobacco Quit line (1-800-QUIT-NOW): is available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. The Louisiana Quit line provides telephone and web-based tobacco cessation coaching to all Louisianans, including nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), web and text messaging support, printed materials, and referral to community resources. 

Quit with us, Louisiana

How to Quit Smoking & Tobacco Use| CDC

How to Quit Smoking | HelpGuide

10 ways to resist tobacco cravings| Mayo Clinic

Dust Mites- dust mites are tiny bugs that feed on human skin flakes. They are found on mattresses, pillows, carpets, upholstered furniture, bedcovers, clothes, stuffed toys, and fabric-covered items. To reduce exposure to dust mites:

a. Wash bedding in hot water once a week and dry completely
b. Use dust proof covers on pillow and mattresses
c. Vacuum carpets and furniture every week
d. Wash stuffed toys in hot water and dry completely
e. Dust often with a damp cloth
*Use a vacuum with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) on carpet and fabric-covered furniture to reduce the build-up of dust and other particles.

Mold-mold can be extremely problematic for people sensitive to mold or that have asthma. Molds create tiny spores that travel through the air, are invisible to the naked eye, and can be inhaled. When these spores land on wet surfaces, they begin to grow.

*See document for additional information about mold

Cockroaches and Pests-pest droppings or body parts can trigger asthma attacks. Proteins found in cockroach saliva and feces can cause allergic reactions or trigger asthma symptoms in some individuals. Pests are often found near places where there are food and water.

Tips to control pest in your environment:

a. Clean dishes, crumbs, and spills immediately
b. Store food in airtight containers
c. Reduce clutter in your home
d. Seal cracks or openings around or inside cabinets
e. Choose natural, non-toxic pesticides                                                                                    Diatomaceous Earth
      Baking Soda
f. Take caution when using pesticides as they can be toxic to pets and humans. Read all pesticide labels prior to use and follow manufacturer instructions.
* See document for additional information on pests

Allergens- Certain allergens can cause severe issues with people who have asthma. Pollen, spores, dust mites, and pet dander are examples of common allergens. People with asthma should closely monitor pollen counts, outdoor air pollution and other allergens that might induce an asthmatic reaction.

You can reduce your exposure to allergens by:

a. Limiting your time spent outdoors during seasons that produce high amounts of allergens
b. Talk to your doctor about allergy shots to build your immunity to common allergens

Resources for Louisiana Allergy season:

When does Louisiana allergy season start?

Due to the mild Louisiana winters, seasonal allergies will commonly begin in February. High pollen counts typically occur in the months of April, May, and September.

Louisiana Allergy Map

When Does Allergy Season Start?

Pets- Proteins in your pets skin flakes, urine, feces, saliva, and hair can produce asthma triggers. Warm-blooded animals like hamsters and guinea pigs can trigger asthma attacks in individuals who have an allergy to dander. There are ways you can control or reduce these triggers:

a. Keep pets outdoors (if possible)                                                                                      b. In some circumstances, you may have to find another home for your pet
c. Keep pets off furniture
d. Vacuum carpets and furniture when the person with asthma is not around
*Use a vacuum with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air filter) on carpet and fabric-covered furniture to reduce the build-up of dust and other particles.

Additional asthma resources:

Asthma| CDC

Asthma| EPA

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

American Lung Association

Asthma Resources for Patients & Caregivers

Do you or someone you know have asthma? Check out our BREATHE program for resources on managing asthma triggers: BREATHE | La Dept. of Health

Asbestos

Asbestos is the name used to describe a group of naturally occurring mineral fibers that have been widely used for industrial processes and products known to have negative effects on human health. Asbestos fibers may be released into the air by the disturbance of asbestos containing materials, and can be dangerous to human health if inhaled, increasing your risk of developing lung disease.

Resources on asbestos and asbestos testing in Louisiana:

Asbestos| Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality

Asbestos Contractors

About Asbestos| EPA

Asbestos Exposure and Cancer Risk

Asbestos| NIOSH | CDC

Bed bugs

The bed bug is a common pest that feeds on blood, causing itchy bites which can irritate their human hosts. Fortunately, they are not known to transmit or spread disease however, they can cause other public health issues. They are small and can be difficult to identify, often mistaken for other insects.

If you have a bed bug infestation it’s important to address it before it becomes established and spreads.

Signs of Bed bugs:

a.      Rusty or reddish stains on bed sheets or mattresses caused by bed bugs being crushed

b.      Dark spots (about this size: •) which could be bug droppings

c.       Eggs and eggshells, which are tiny (about 1mm) and pale yellow skins that nymphs shed as they grow

d.      Live bed bugs

Getting rid of Bed bugs:

Exterminating a bed bug infestation can take time and patience. There is no quick fix for bed bug removal. The best way to treat a bed bug infestation is by insecticide spraying. Be sure to contact your landlord or professional pest control companies with experience treating bed bugs.

Additional Resources:

Bed Bugs Brochure | Louisiana Department of Health

Bed Bugs: Get them out and keep them out | EPA

Bed Bugs | CDC

Diagnosis & Treatment | Mayo Clinic

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable, strong-smelling gas used in building materials and common household products. Sensitive populations may experience health effects such as watery eyes; burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat; coughing; wheezing; nausea; and skin irritations.

Formaldehyde is found in:

1. Building materials and insulation
2. Fertilizers and pesticides
3. Resins used in the manufacturing of wood products (i.e. hardwood plywood, particleboard & medium density fiberboard)
4. Products such as glues, permanent press fabrics, paints and coatings, lacquers and finishes, and paper products
5. Preservatives used in some medicines, cosmetics and other products like dishwashing liquids and fabric softeners

It is a byproduct of combustion, and can be found in:

1. Emissions from fuel burning appliances, like gas stoves or kerosene space heaters
2. Cigarette smoke

How can you be exposed to Formaldehyde?

Everyone is exposed to small amounts of formaldehyde in the air. The primary way of formaldehyde exposure is from breathing in air containing off-gassing formaldehyde. Off-gassing is the release of a gas into the air from a product or material.

Workers who may be at a higher risk of exposure:

1. Agricultural workers who work is small spaces with livestock
2. Construction workers working with resin manufactured products
3. Manufactures of plastics, resins and foam insulation
4. Morticians working with embalming process
5. Beauticians working with dyes and smoothing hair products

Resources:

1. Facts About Formaldehyde | US EPA
2. Workplace Formaldehyde Standards | OSHA
3. Formaldehyde and Your Health | ATSDR (cdc.gov)

Pests & Pesticide Use

Indoor household pests can spread diseases, microbes, and trigger asthma and allergy symptoms in sensitive populations. Below are tips for pest prevention and information on safe practices for in-home pesticide use.

Pest Prevention:

1. Remove sources of food, water and shelter.
2. Store food in a sealed container.
3. Frequently remove trash bags containing food scraps, and place trash bags in a tightly covered trash can.
4. Fix leaky plumbing and don’t let water accumulate anywhere in the home.
5. Remove pet food and water at night.
6. Reduce clutter like stacks of newspaper, magazines or cardboard where pests breed or hide.
7. Seal holes or cracks around home where pests can enter.

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Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is associated with lung cancer. Radon is odorless, invisible, and released naturally from rocks, soil and water. It can enter homes and buildings through small cracks or holes, and other structural gaps. Over time, breathing in high levels of radon can result in lung cancer.

Testing for Radon:

Testing is the only way to know if radon levels are high. Contact Louisiana Department for Environmental Quality for more information on testing: Radon FAQs | Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality

It is recommended to test your home for Radon when:

a.      Levels have never been tested, or are unknown

b.      Preparing to buy or sell

c.       Before or after home renovations; especially if making repairs to reduce radon levels

d.      Prior to making changes that would cause an individual to spend more consistent time in the basement or lower level; i.e. converting a basement to bedroom or child’s playroom

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Reducing high radon levels in your home:

a.      Increase your home’s air flow by opening windows and using fans and vents to circulate air

b.      Seal gaps and cracks in floors and walls with materials designed to prevent radon exposure

c.       Ask about radon-resistant construction techniques if you are buying a new home

d.      Find free support and resources to quit smoking- smoking significantly increases the risk of lung cancer from radon.

Resources:

1.      Radon FAQs | Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality

2.      Radon | US EPA

3.      Radon and Your Health | CDC

4.      Radon Toxicity: What is Radon? | ATSDR

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Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Volatile Organic Compounds are chemical gases that vaporize into the air and dissolve in water under normal atmospheric conditions of temperature and pressure. They are commonly used in industry, agriculture, transportation, and everyday activities around the home.  They contribute to both indoor & outdoor pollutants. However, with indoor exposure, the main concern is the potential for VOCs to impact the health of people exposed, and the outdoor emphasis is their ability to create photochemical smog, under certain conditions.

Indoor Sources:

Building Materials	Home & Personal Care Products	Activities
Paint, Paint Strippers	Cleaners and Disinfectants	Tobacco Smoke
Varnishes, Finishes	Furniture	Dry-cleaned Clothing
Caulks, Sealants	Pesticides	Gas and Wood Burning Stoves
Adhesives	Air Fresheners	Office Printers and Copiers
Flooring, Carpet, Pressed Wood Products	Cosmetics, Deoderants, Fragrance	Arts and Crafts products; Glues, Paints, Markers, etc.
	Fuel oil, Gasoline

Outdoor Sources:

·         Gasoline

·         Diesel emissions

·         Wood burning combustion

·         Oil and gas extraction and processing

·         Industrial emissions

Health Effects:

The level and length of exposure to organic chemical VOCs can cause negative health effects and varies greatly from those that are highly toxic, to those with no known health effect. Common signs and symptoms associated with VOC exposure include:

•  Eye, nose and throat irritations
•  Headache
•  Allergic skin reaction
•  Shortness of breath
•  Nausea
•  Loss of coordination
•  Fatigue
•  Dizziness

Protecting yourself from VOCs:

• Look for labels on products that contain “Low VOCs”
• Research alternative approaches to eliminate the need for products containing VOCs
• Purchase only what you need, and dispose any leftover or unused product safely
• Always follow manufacturers’ directions when using products
• Don’t smoke or be around smokers; tobacco smoke contains VOCs along with other carcinogens
• Ventilate with fans and windows when you are using products containing VOCs
• Let new building products, like carpet and furniture ventilate- it is best to ventilate outside when possible. If you are able to, open windows and run fans to circulate air while products release VOCs.   *Be sure to read manufacturers’ labels for more information on specific product.
• Ventilate spaces with printers or copiers to reduce exposure to their VOCs

Resources:

1.      What are volatile organic compounds (VOCs)? | US EPA

2.      Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) | U.S. Geological Survey

3.      Volatile Organic Compounds | American Lung Association

Smoke & Wildfires

Wildfire smoke is produced form the burning of grasses, trees, branches and other organic matter. It is composed primarily of particulate matter, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, water vapor, hydrocarbons and other organics, nitrogen oxides and trace minerals. Both the particulates and the gases in smoke contribute to environmental pollution, and exposure to this smoke can make anyone sick.

Particulate Matter:

The major pollutant of concern from wildfire smoke is particulate matter. Particulate matter is a general term for any mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air, and wildfire smoke includes both large, visible particles and very small, invisible particles (2.5 micrometers or less in diameter). The small particles pose the greatest health concerns because they can reach the lower areas of the lungs, and some may even get into the bloodstream. Larger particles (10 microns and greater) will irritate the eyes, nose and throat, but they are filtered by tiny hairs in the nose and upper respiratory system and so cannot reach the areas deep in the lungs.

Gases:

The burning of organic materials in wildfires also produces gases as breakdown products. While these gases can be harmful, they are usually rapidly diluted in the outdoors and do not normally have direct human health effects.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a colorless, odorless and non-flammable gas produced both by the burning of fossil fuels (coal, natural gas and oil) and by wildfires. CO2 is considered an environmental greenhouse gas, and wildfires can produce large amounts of CO2 and raise the levels of this gas in the atmosphere.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced during incomplete combustion, meaning it is generated when there is insufficient oxygen for carbon fuel to completely burn. Most carbon monoxide produced during a wildfire comes from the fire’s smoldering stages. Very small amounts the gas can cause health effects, but the gas generally dilutes too rapidly for such effects to manifest during outdoor fires.

Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a large family of multi-ringed chemicals formed during the burning of          coal, oil, gas, garbage or other organic substances. PAHs are found in the burnt residues after a fire and in soot, usually as a mixture containing several compounds in this category. Some PAHs are carcinogens.

Nitrogen oxides (N2O) include various gaseous compounds of nitrogen and oxygen. Many of the organic materials that burn in wildfires contain nitrogen, so several nitrogen oxides may be formed during wildfires. They are also contained in motor vehicle exhaust; produced by the burning of coal, oil, or natural gas; and created during industrial processes like welding, electroplating, engraving, and dynamic blasting. Low levels of nitrous oxides in the air can irritate your eyes, nose, throat and lungs and may cause coughing, shortness of breath, tiredness and nausea. Nitrogen oxides also contribute to environmental pollution.

I am pretty healthy, can wildfire smoke make me sick?

High levels of wildfire smoke can make anyone sick. Even someone who is healthy may experience symptoms of smoke irritations, though many are reversible and will disappear after a few days. The immediate health effects of breathing in wildfire smoke may include:

·         coughing,

·         trouble breathing normally,

·         stinging eyes,

·         a scratchy throat,

·         a runny nose,

·         irritated sinuses,

·         wheezing and shortness of breath,

·         chest pain,

·         headaches,

·         an asthma attack in those with asthma,

·         tiredness and

·         an increased heart rate

 

Who is most at risk of having a health impact from exposure to wildfire smoke?

·         Those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases are at a high risk for health effects from smoke.

·         People with heart diseases, such as congestive heart failure, angina or other cardiac problems, are more susceptible to the effects of smoke.

·         People with lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema or asthma, are at higher risk of breathing problems when they inhale smoke.

·         Both older adults with chronic health problems and younger children are more likely to experience health problems as a result of being exposed to wildfire smoke.

·         Children also are more likely to be active, which increases the inhalation of smoke particles and the associated risks.

·         Smokers already have compromised lung function and exposure to high levels of particulates can exacerbate their condition, leading to chest pain, trouble breathing and other respiratory symptoms more quickly than non-smokers.

How can I protect myself and my family from wildfires and smoke?

1.      Evacuate from the area is you are threatened by fire, and stay indoors if there is a large amount of smoke outdoors.

2.      Pay attention to local air quality reports and stay alert to any news coverage or health warnings.

3.      If there is an air quality advisory, stay indoors and try to minimize the intrusion of smoke. Keep the windows and doors closed.

4.      Avoid using wood burning stoves or fireplaces indoors. (These will generate smoke particles)

If there is an air quality advisory:

·         Stay indoors-try to minimize the intrusion of smoke.

·         Keep the windows and doors closed.

·         Use air conditioning if it is hot outside; if possible, keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter cleaned.

·         If it is hot and you don’t have air conditioning, seek other shelter.

Air Purifiers:

Air filters and purifiers can help reduce particle levels indoors. The type and size of the air purifiers should fit the size of the room or house. These should be in place before the fire. Do not use air purifiers that generate ozone.

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