Mold, Fungi, Virus, Bacteria Issues?

5/13/2016 (Permalink)

Mold from a leaking pipe in German Village

Nature, the cycle of life, the natural order, and other expressions you have heard through the years, all refer to how things survive, thrive and die in the natural environment. Humans encounter mold, fungi, bacteria, and viruses in German Village every day.  However, when high concentrations of such microbes are present within buildings, it can cause health effects. Not all molds, fungi, viruses, and bacteria are harmful to us, but we often don't know what type of microbial to which we have been exposed, or to what degree (how much, or how long).  

So what should we do?  We use our noses!  If you can smell that familiar musty odor that mold can cause, it usually means it is off-gassing and is a good indication that mold is active and growing in a fairly high concentration.  Proper mold remediation in German Village requires the use of PPE (personal protective equipment), like respirators, goggles, gloves, etc. to protect against exposure to microorganisms.  There can be unknown strains in areas of increased growth, like a sewage backup, a flood, long-standing water in a basement, dead and rotten animals, and so on.  We also know that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be airborne, water borne, or surface borne; therefore we take all precautions to avoid exposure, and especially over exposure. 

The next time you think about jumping right in to start cleaning mold or sewage, before you stir things up too much I hope you will pause and reflect on safety for yourself and others; OR better yet, call the professionals at SERVPRO of South Columbus.  614-863-1392 www.SERVPROsouthcolumbus.com