Here’s the reality: under normal conditions, E. coli and coliform bacteria are not airborne. They do not evaporate or become aerosolized unless subjected to significant force, such as high-pressure splashing or mechanical aerosolization. This means that bacterial air sampling and surface swabbing in areas not directly impacted by sewage contamination might lead to misleading results.

Effective sampling of E. coli involves targeted methodologies:
1️⃣ Focus on direct sources of contamination (e.g., sewage-impacted surfaces).
2️⃣ Use sterile swabs for surface testing in areas of concern.
3️⃣ Employ water sampling for suspect reservoirs, following EPA or CDC guidelines.

While air sampling has its place in identifying certain contaminants, using it to detect E. coli in unrelated areas often results in unnecessary effort and misallocated resources.

While certain molds produce mycotoxins, the molds themselves are not toxic or poisonous. However, both toxin and non-toxin producers are may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Are All Black Molds Toxigenic?

Not all black molds are toxic molds. The color and production of mycotoxins by molds are two different things. Black colored mold has a black pigment by nature which is not in any way associated with being a toxin producer.

The incorrect association of black color of mold with “toxicity” came about because of Stachybotrys chartarum, a dark black or sometimes dark green fungus. It can grow on material with a high cellulose content, such as fiberboard, gypsum board, and paper. Growth occurs when there is moisture from water damage, water leaks, condensation, water infiltration, or flooding. Constant moisture is required for its growth. In the 1990s, Stachybotrys chartarum was implicated in the death of children in Cleveland, Ohio. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a possible association between acute idiopathic pulmonary hemorrhage (sudden unexpected bleeding of lungs) among infants and Stachybotrys chartarum has not been proven . Although there isn’t clear evidence linking sudden unexplained bleeding in infants to Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold), the fact that it’s black has caused the general public to think that all black molds are harmful.

Studies have shown that Stachybotrys produces and releases mycotoxins on cellulose-containing water damaged building materials. These mycotoxins can also be present in the spores that get released into the air and, while not scientifically proven, could cause danger to human health when inhaled.

Other Examples of Black Molds Commonly Found in Water-damaged Buildings.

Aspergillus niger: This mold is black and is commonly found in soil, decaying vegetation, and food. It is commonly present in indoor environments but is not typically associated with contaminated building materials. However, Aspergillus niger can also grow on damp building materials such as drywall and wallpaper as well as leather products. While it is an infrequent cause of aspergillosis, it can cause infections in the ears, nose, and lungs, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems.

Cladosporium sp: This mold may appear black. It is very common in indoor environment. Cladosporium sphaerospermum for example is very common on wet building materials especially acrylic painted walls, wallpaper and insulation. Cladosporium species are well known causes of allergy.

Ulocladium sp: This mold is black and is commonly found in water-damaged buildings. It grows on cellulose-rich materials such as wood, paper, and cardboard. Little is know about the health effects of Ulocladium.

Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria are mycobacteria other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. leprae, and are also referred to as atypical mycobacteria, mycobacteria other than tuberculosis (MOTT), or environmental mycobacteria.

Where Are Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria Commonly Found?

Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria typically are free-living environmental saprophytes. Some free-living Mycobacteria are opportunistic human pathogens and there is evidence that they are usually transmitted by inhalation, inoculation and ingestion from environmental sources. Soil, surface water, ground water and sea water have been described as natural habitats of environmental Mycobacteria. In addition, artificial habitats such as tap water and sewage sludge are colonized by a considerable spectrum of mycobacterial species. Aquatic Mycobacteria tend to colonize biofilms at air-water and solid-water interfaces and the latter seem to be an important proliferation site in oligotrophic habitats.

Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) can form difficult-to-eliminate biofilms. Biofilms are collections of microorganisms that stick to each other, and adhere to surfaces in moist environments, such as the insides of plumbing in buildings. As opportunistic pathogens, NTMs can cause infections in a wide variety of body sites, most commonly the lungs and in the following areas: skin and soft tissue, device-associated infections, lymph nodes, blood or other usually sterile locations in the body.

Though opportunistic pathogens, NTMs can infect anyone, but certain groups face a higher risk, particularly individuals with underlying lung disease or weakened immune systems. While NTMs are generally not transmitted from person to person, there have been reported cases of person-to-person transmission of Mycobacterium abscessus in patients with cystic fibrosis.

It is crucial for health and safety and infection control officials in hospitals to understand the risks associated with NTM infections and the importance of testing for NTM in hospital environments. By testing for NTM, hospitals can identify potential sources of infection and take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of NTM infections. This can help reduce the risk of NTM infections in patients, especially those weak immune system.

Why Test for Non-tuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM)?

NTM, often underestimated, can lurk in hospital water systems, equipment, and even in the air. It is important for hospitals and homecare facilities to test for non-tuberculous mycobacteria because these bacteria can cause serious infections in patients, especially those who are immunocompromised. By testing for NTM, hospitals and homecare facilities can identify potential sources of infection and take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of NTM infections. This can help reduce the risk of NTM infections in patients, and improve patient outcomes.

At Mold & Bacteria Consulting Laboratories we have the expertise to test and identify non-tuberculous mycobacteria from hospital water and other environments.

Often, we hear of tenants suing their landlords, or in some cases, homeowners taking legal action against the sellers they bought their homes from, after discovering mold growth on walls, ceilings, or in the bathrooms of their rental properties. Typically, the tenants allege that they were exposed to mold and that their health has suffered as a result. They attribute this to negligence on the part of the landlord and may seek a specific amount in compensatory and general damages, along with associated costs.

Before considering legal action, it’s crucial to understand a few key points about mold growth. First, although indoor mold growth is generally considered as a potential health hazard, there is currently little available scientific data to substantiate this claim. Therefore, there is no established health-based exposure limit for indoor mold exposure. This means it would be a challenge to prove that mold is the cause of the illness. Secondly, mold develops from spores, and there is no home entirely free of them. These spores need moisture to germinate and grow into visible mold. Apart from leaks or floods, any activity that generates high humidity in a home can contribute to mold growth. This means that a tenant’s actions or inactions could potentially be a factor in mold growth. In such cases, it may not be reasonable for them to pursue legal action.

When Does Mold Litigation by a Tenant Not Make Sense?

Mold litigation may not make sense if a tenant, or the person filing the lawsuit, is directly or indirectly responsible for the mold growth. There are circumstances where a tenant could potentially be held responsible for the mold they are suing for. These include:

1. Failure to Report Leaks or Water Intrusion: This encompasses issues like roof leaks, pipe leaks, sewer line problems, flooding, and moisture entering through the building structure. If a tenant neglects to promptly report these issues to the landlord, and this negligence leads to mold growth, they may bear partial or full responsibility.
2. Improper Ventilation: Inadequate ventilation creates a damp environment, which is ideal for mold growth. Proper ventilation removes excess moisture, while poor ventilation allows it to accumulate. Therefore, if a tenant doesn’t maintain proper ventilation in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry rooms, it can create conditions conducive to mold growth, potentially constituting neglect on the tenant’s part.
3. Blocking Ventilation or Heating Sources: Blocking ventilation systems or heating sources with furniture, clothing, or other items can lead to moisture buildup and mold growth.
4. Improper Cleaning and Maintenance: Neglecting to clean and maintain the rental unit, allowing dust, dirt, and debris to accumulate, can contribute to mold growth. Regular cleaning reduces the availability of spores for mold to grow.
5. Introducing Excessive Moisture: Any activity that generates moisture can contribute to mold growth. This includes activities like indoor clothes drying without proper ventilation, leaving windows open during rain, or neglecting to use exhaust fans in high-moisture areas.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided above is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional or legal advice. Any reliance on the information contained on this website is at your own risk. You should consult with a qualified professional or legal advisor for advice specific to your situation. The author and Mold & Bacteria Consulting Laboratories do not accept any responsibility for any loss which may arise from reliance on information contained in this article.

Fungal spores are small particles that are produced and released by fungi. They can be found in the air both indoors and outdoors environments. While spores of some types of fungi are harmless, others can cause health problems when they are inhaled. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at fungal spores and their impact on indoor air quality.

What are fungal spores?

Fungal spores are reproductive structures that are produced by fungi. They are like “seeds” of the fungi and hence, under the right conditions, they germinate to form new fungal growth. The spores are typically very small and lightweight, which allows them to be easily carried by air current or wind from one location to another. Fungal spores can be found in many different environments, including soil, water, and air.

Fungi can grow on a variety of surfaces including wood, paper, and fabric. They play an important role in the environment by aiding in the recycling of nutrients.

How do fungal spores affect indoor air quality?

Fungal spores can be found in many different indoor environments including homes, schools, hospitals and other workplaces. They can contribute significantly to poor indoor air quality, depending on the specific type of fungus present and the concentration of spores in the air. 

Health effects of exposure to fungal spores

As mentioned earlier, if fungal spores are present in indoor air, they can cause a number of health problems when we breathe them. For example, they can trigger allergic reactions in some people, which can lead to symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes. Fungal spores can also cause respiratory problems in some people, particularly those with asthma or other lung conditions.

How can I test the air quality in my home for fungal spores?

There are several ways to test the air quality in your home for fungal spores. One way is to use a rental DIY air quality mold test kit which comes with an air rental sampling pump and air sample cassettes. After collecting the samples, you then send them to a reputable accredited laboratory.

How to reduce fungal spores concentrations in the indoor environment

There are several steps you can take to reduce fungal spores concentrations in the indoor environment. First, it’s important to keep your home clean and dry. This means cleaning up any spills or leaks as soon as possible and using a dehumidifier if necessary to reduce moisture levels. You should also make sure that your home is well-ventilated to help prevent the buildup of moisture. Since moisture is the primary cause of fungal growth, eliminating moisture prevents fungal growth and hence the number of spores produced and released into the air.

Reducing fungal spore concentrations in the indoor environment is crucial for improving air quality and minimizing health risks. Here are some steps you can take to achieve this:

1. Identify moisture sources and address them: Fungi thrive in a humid environment, so it’s important to identify and eliminate all sources of moisture. Check your home for water leaks, condensation, or areas of high humidity. Promptly repair any leaky plumbing, roof leaks, or other sources of water intrusion. Improves ventilation in moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and basements.
2. Ensure proper ventilation: Good air circulation helps prevent moisture build-up and reduces the risk of fungal growth. Make sure your home is adequately ventilated by using exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, opening windows for fresh air, and ensuring proper airflow in your HVAC system.
3. Keep indoor humidity levels low: Fungi grow faster and vigorously in damp and humid environments. Maintain indoor humidity between 30% and 60% to prevent fungal growth. Use dehumidifiers in areas with excessive or high humidity, especially in basements or areas where water is leaking. Monitor humidity with a hygrometer and take appropriate measures to control it.
4. Immediately clean and dry affected areas: If you notice any signs of fungal growth, clean and dry the affected areas immediately. Use appropriate cleaning techniques, e.g. scrubbing with detergent and water. Wear appropriate protective equipment when cleaning up fungal growth. Make sure the area is completely dry to prevent further growth.
5. Identify and remove moldy materials: Mold-infested porous materials such as carpets, ceiling tiles, or wallpaper may need to be removed and replaced. Non-porous materials such as metal or glass can be thoroughly cleaned. Contact a professional mold remediation service if you have a severe fungal infestation or are unsure of the proper cleaning and removal methods.
6. Regular cleaning and maintenance: Clean and maintain the indoor environment regularly to reduce the accumulation of dust and spores. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and curtains with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter to catch small particles. Dust surfaces with a damp cloth to prevent the spread of airborne spores.
7. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters: Air purifiers equipped with high-efficiency particulate filters (HEPA) can effectively capture fungal spores and improve indoor air quality. Place them in the rooms where you spend most of your time, especially the bedroom and living room.

Conclusion

Fungal spores are a common problem in indoor environments and can have a number of negative health effects. However, by taking steps to prevent their growth and keeping your home clean and dry, you can help reduce your risk of exposure. If you suspect extensive fungal growth, have persistent indoor air quality issues, or experience health problems related to fungal exposure, it’s advisable to consult a qualified professional, such as a microbiologist, an industrial hygienist or a certified indoor environmental consultant, for a thorough assessment and appropriate guidance.

Mold can potentially reappear after mold remediation if the underlying conditions that originally caused the mold to grow are not properly addressed. Mold spores are always present in the environment and under favorable conditions especially the presence of moisture, these spores germinate within 24-48 hours and form new mold growth. Remediation does not eliminate spores in the remediated areas and even if it did, new spores would infiltrate indoors from the outside.

If the underlying causes of mold growth are effectively addressed during the remediation process and all the moldy materials are removed (if they can’t be cleaned), the likelihood of mold recurrence is significantly reduced.

Factors to consider when assessing whether mold will return after remediation

If you are assigned the responsibility of assessing whether mold will return after remediation, here are some factors to consider:

1. Moisture Control: Mold is unlikely to grow if there is no moisture. It is very important to identify and address any sources of moisture that contributed to the initial mold growth. This may include fixing leaks in pipes, roof or windows, improving ventilation and reducing humidity. By removing excess moisture, the risk of mold growing again is significantly reduced.
2. Deep Cleaning: Effective mold remediation involves removing visible mold, finding and eliminating hidden mold and preventing the spread of spores. Mold remediation typically include proper containment, removal and disposal of moldy materials that cannot be effectively cleaned and removing dust on surfaces. In some cases, applying approved antimicrobials is recommended. A thorough cleaning process including dust removal will help reduce the mold spores and hence the risk of mold developing again.
3. Adequate ventilation: Good air circulation and ventilation are important to prevent mold growth. Proper ventilation prevents humidity build-up, which can contribute to mold growth. Adequate ventilation in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and basements can be critical to long-term mold prevention and control.

Proper Maintenance Can Help Prevent Mold Growth

Even if the remediation was successful, as the property owner, you should consider the following:

1. Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Even after a successful remediation, it is important to regularly inspect the treated areas and other sensitive areas of the property for signs of moisture infiltration or mold growth. Promptly addressing any issues found during inspection can help prevent mold problems from reoccurring.
2. Humidity Monitoring: Monitoring and maintaining proper humidity levels in the home or building can be an effective way to prevent mold growth. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends keeping indoor humidity levels between 30% and 60% to help prevent mold growth.
3. Education and Awareness: By understanding the conditions that support mold growth and being aware of potential problems in the property, one can take proactive steps to prevent mold from reoccurring. Knowledge of mold prevention techniques, potential signs of mold growth, and effective repair practices is useful.

Conclusion

While proper mold removal can significantly reduce the risk of post-remediation mold growth, keep in mind that mold spores are found everywhere and can re-enter the environment from a variety of sources. However, by addressing the root causes and taking preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of mold growth after mold remediation. If you are concerned about mold in your property, we recommend that you consult a mold professional for an in-depth assessment of mold infestation and appropriate remediation strategies.

Check out our DIY Mold Test Kit if you would like to test the air quality in your home or office. 

Why ERMI should not be solely relied upon for mold assessment

Though the ERMI may seem like a convenient, objective, and advanced technology for assessing mold contamination in buildings, its critics point out several reasons why it should not be solely relied upon for mold assessment.

Some of the the reasons include:
1. Limited scope: ERMI does not cover the full spectrum of potentially harmful mold species. There are many types of molds that can cause health problems and structural damage to the building that ERMI does not consider.
2. No consensus: There is no consensus among experts and scientific community on the validity and reliability of ERMI as a mold assessment tool. While some studies suggest a correlation between ERMI scores and mold-related health problems, others question their accuracy and usefulness.
3. Inadequate sampling methodology: ERMI relies on house dust samples to assess mold contamination. This method, however, has limitations. Mold contamination can be localized and may not be evenly distributed throughout the dust in the home. This means that results from a single dust sample may not be a good representative of mold contamination levels throughout the building.
4. Difficulties in Interpretation: the ERMI results are often presented as a single numerical value, which can be misleading. Various factors must be considered when interpreting this value, such as the specific type of mold detected, the location and extent of mold growth, and the individual’s susceptibility to mold-related health problems. Without appropriate expertise, it can be difficult to draw accurate conclusions from ERMI results.
5. Lack of standardization: The ERMI calculation formula and the interpretation guidelines have not been generally standardized. Different laboratories may use different reference methods and databases, leading to inconsistent results. This lack of standardization affects the comparability and reliability of ERMI results from different laboratories.

In summary, while the ERMI may be useful as a complementary tool in mold investigations, it should not be used alone for mold assessments.

Mold & Bacteria Consulting Laboratories received a sample of what the homeowner thought was a mold for testing. It turned out to be slime mold. The slime mold was growing on the windowsill and the homeowner initially thought it was a mushroom. When she tried to take a sample of the slime mold using clear scotch tape, the mold disintegrated into a cloud of dust. The lab identified the slime mold as Stemonitis sp. Stemonitis is a type of slime mold that usually grows outdoors in moist environments such as woods or grassy areas.

While Stemonitis is rare in buildings, it can grow on organic materials such as wood, paper or cardboard, especially when they are damp or wet. It can also grow on walls, especially in the case of water damage or leaks.

Health Effects Associated with the Slime Mold, Stemonitis

Although the slime mold, Stemonitis, is not considered a serious health problem, its growth is an indication of moisture problems and hence possible presence of other types of mold.

Mold can release spores into the air that can cause health problems such as coughing, wheezing and other respiratory problems, especially in people with a history of allergies or asthma. If you suffer from unexplained allergies, you may want to test the air quality in your home or office.

Mold could also cause skin irritation and other health effects in sensitive individuals. We therefore recommend that consulting a professional to assess the extent of mold growth and recommend appropriate level of remediation.

While slime molds are considered harmless to humans, the health effects associated with inhaling their spores is not known.

What are Slime Molds?

Slime molds are not true fungi but they often form spore-bearing structures similar to those formed by true fungi. While many species of slime mold produce fruiting bodies on wood, they do not form the mycelium (root-like structure of branching tubular filaments) on woody substrate.

Slime molds are fascinating organisms that have attracted the attention of biologists, ecologists, and even architects in recent years. They are known for their unique ability to move and grow in response to environmental stimuli. They have been observed in a variety of habitats including forests, fields, and even indoors.   

One of the most intriguing aspects of slime molds is their ability to form networks that resemble the structures of cities and transportation systems. These networks have proven to be very efficient in terms of energy and resource use, with some researchers suggesting they could serve as models for sustainable infrastructure.   

Slime Molds in Buildings

As mentioned before, the presence of slime mold in a built environment indicates water intrusion. In buildings, slime molds have been found to grow in damp or wet places such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. They crawl across the surface of materials, feeding on bacteria, plant and fungal spores, protozoa, and particles of dead organic matter.

Peziza domiciliana, variously referred to as domicile cup fungus, peziza mushroom and Peziza fungus among other names, is a common household fungus that grows in indoor environment. It is usually associated with water-damaged buildings. “Domiciliana” means “around the house”. It is found in a wide range of habitats including carpets in living rooms, shower stalls, damp closets, behind refrigerators, around leaky water beds, in cellars, greenhouses, under porches, damp walls, and even in cars. Peziza is the sexual state (or what mycologists call teleomorph) of this fungus. The asexual state (i.e., the anamorph) is called Chromelosporium. Just like Peziza, Chromelosporium can be found colonizing indoor surfaces of damp buildings.

Appearance of Peziza domiciliana

Peziza domiciliana appears as yellowish to brownish cup shaped, mushroom-like structures with a central depression, a short stalk and a rubbery texture. The older the specimen the flatter they get and are normally 2-10 cm in diameter. The yellowish to brownish mushroom-like structures produce spores in microscopic sac-like structures called ascii. The spores are forcibly released and may be seen as a thin powdery cloud when the cup shaped structures (fruiting bodies) are disturbed.

Health Effects of Peziza domiciliana

Peziza domiciliana is currently not known to be poisonous, but it is considered inedible due to its rubbery texture. No information is available regarding health effects, toxicity, or allergenicity to humans. Whether the spores (ascospores) causes allergic reactions in humans is not known either. However, the spores of many fungi potentially can cause respiratory problems in susceptible individuals.

How to get rid of Peziza domiciliana in a house

Luckily, Peziza does not destroy wood although often incorrectly identified as dry rot fungus, Serpula lacrymans. While it is not difficult to remove, merely plucking off the cups (fruiting bodies) or applying bleach may not get rid of it since the bulk of the growth is likely embedded in the material it is growing on. Peziza thrives in damp conditions and hence a useful indicator of moisture problems. To get rid of Peziza domiciliana, eliminate the source of water and it will rapidly die.

The most common indoor molds include Cladosporium, Penicillium, and Aspergillus.