Although mould is a ‘natural’ phenomenon, it is no longer treated casually. The Ontario Ministry of Labour decrees “mould growth on the interior surfaces of buildings is a risk factor for health problems.” Under the confines of the OHSA (Occupational Health and Safety Act), it is legally required of industrial building owners and managers to “take every reasonable precaution to protect workers from mould” as “mould growth on the interior surfaces of buildings is a risk factor for health problems.” The Ministry, upon receipt of a complaint, has the right to issue a building assessment, and has in the past upheld refusals to work where mould contamination was suspected or confirmed.

Many people think mould is an unavoidable problem. Not so. Mould growth cannot occur if interior finishes are kept dry and inside acceptable humidity levels. Proper roof and eaves trough maintenance, along with regular upkeep to window caulking, building foundations and landscaping all prevent mould growth. Even a flood, if dried inside a 24-to-48-hour timeframe will not cause the growth of mould. The magic humidity level to maintain—via a combination of ventilation, heating and dehumidification equipment is 60%. Humidity levels below 60% do not grow mould.

A Kleinfeldt mould investigations at an industrial site involves the inclusion of all parties required, or as permitted, by law. Before performing an industrial site investigation, Kleinfeldt notifies the Joint Health and Safety Committee, as they have the right to observe testing, and receive reports. Kleinfeldt’s investigations consider the history of the building (for example: roof leaks, leaky pipes, wet basements, floods, etc.) and involve the collection of data from occupants or employees. We remove all contaminated material, design and present a report detailing the measures required to prevent re-growth, and perform microscopic examinations on samples to determine the type of mould, hence gauging the severity of the potential health impact. Air sampling is performed to check for hidden mould growth, such as within wall cavities or inside ventilation equipment and ductwork. We also ensure that all regulatory agencies are informed throughout the process, and are in receipt, at the all-clear, of the results of clearance testing.

Kleinfeldt’s remediation/restoration designs can resolve your concerns with mould health problems.