One resource that I feel is grossly under-utilized is the SHIB’s (Safety and Health Information Bulletins) that OSHA releases throughout the year. The content is jam packed with great warnings and tips for creating a safe work environment, and they are generally written in a format that is easier to read than the actual laws which correlate to them.

What I’m going to spotlight today is a bulletin that was released way back in 2003 regarding a workplace hazard that applies to just about EVERY office, period. “A Brief Guide to Mold in the Workplace” contains some great tips we’re going to outline here.

The first and biggest point is to recognize that the best way to get rid of mold, is to prevent it from happening in the first place. OSHA suggests some of the following :

1. Repair broken pipes and fixtures as soon as possible.

2. Address damp/wet areas immediately.

3. Keep HVAC drip pans open, clear and unobstructed.

4. Implementing proper draining in and around your building, following all building codes.

You can diagnose the seriousness of the situation by asking yourself basic questions like, “How long has the area been wet? More than 2 days? Are there people complaining of moldy odors or musty odors?”

In the case that you DO have a situation on your hands, OSHA recommends the following :

“ The remediation plan should include steps to permanently correct the water or moisture problem. The plan should cover the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). It also should include steps to carefully contain and remove moldy building materials in a manner that will prevent further contamination. Remediation plans may vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the job, and may require revision if circumstances change or new facts are discovered. “

Proper PPE (personal protective equipment) for mold situations would include Skin, Eye, Respiratory, and Clothing protection. Remember that according to 29 CFR 1910.134 everyone who uses a respirator must be properly trained, and have medical clearance before using a respirator. Proper fitting is also key.

The remediation process can be pretty complicated and involve a lot of equipment, if you do feel like doing it yourself I suggest you read the full article which contains steps for cleanup and testing, or you can outsource the job to one of the hundreds of companies who specialize in mold cleanup. The size and complexity of the mold problem will determine the cost.

Remember it is important that communication is key in a mold situation, written notices should be posted in and around the building, as mold can have very serious effects on people with allergies, and the Center for Disease Control is still researching the possible health effects for the rest of us.

As with any form of workplace safety, prevention is the key to low cost, and low injury / illness rates. I hope this information helps.

~Lincoln Peterson