On-Site Wastewater Treatment Systems

Mold

Johnson County Community Health Services does not have authority to enforce mold clean-up on personal property. We do, however, monitor the incidence of mold being reported by citizens or businesses and provide educational information within our county. An extensive listing of mold links and telephone numbers have been provided for your information.


Mold likes moist, damp areas to grow. Mold produces tiny spores (as seen in the picture above) that float through the indoor and outdoor air looking for a moist, damp spot to begin growing and digesting whatever they are growing on in order to survive. There are molds that can grow on wood, paper, carpet and foods. When excessive moisture or water accumulates indoors, mold growth will often occur, particularly if the moisture problem remains undiscovered or unaddressed. There is no practical way to eliminate all mold and mold spores indoors; the way to control indoor mold is to control moisture.

Basic Mold Clean-Up
The key to mold control is moisture control. It is important to dry water damaged areas and items within 24-48 hours to prevent mold growth. If mold is a problem in your home, clean up the mold and get rid of the excess water or moisture. Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water. Wash off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely. Absorbent materials (such as ceiling tiles & carpet) that become moldy may have to be replaced.

Links:
http://www.cdc.gov/mold/
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/molds/moldresources.html
http://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/conditions/asthma/mold.cfm
http://www.niaid.nih.gov/publications/allergies.htm
http://ago.mo.gov/publications/landlordtenant.htm

Telephone Numbers:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse at 800-438-4318
Missouri Attorney General at 1-800-392-8222

 

 
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