FW: Digest Number 2662

[Guest guest]

It is common to find some fungi in any HVAC system, generally at a level

significantly lower than outdoors. The problem comes when at least one of

those species is significantly higher than levels found outdoors, indicating

system amplification. But that is not the whole story. Looking at the web

site of New York City department of health, you will see that testing has

flaws, particularly viability of lesser species on the test plates commonly

used. Lesser species, often highly allergenic, often go undetected, having

been killed by the major species during lab cultivation.

Therefore, the best indication of a problem is when those most exposed to

a particular situation start developing problems which subside when away

from the site, and return when affected individuals come back. Generally,

when 20-25% of workers are affected, the building is thought to have a

problem. That doesn't necessarily mean 20-25% of the workers in the entire

facility, but those working in a problem location, since many larger

buildings have multiple HVAC systems, and only 1 or 2 may be bad. Generally,

those with the longest exposure are most seriously affected. If you are a

senior worker, and everyone else is relatively new, it is quite possible you

may be the only one yet affected. But your problem is no less real. This

does however make it difficult to convince management you have a building

related condition.

There are a several good references available. One is on the NIOSH web

site, an on-line book titled " Indoor Air Quality: a Guide for Building

Owners and Facility Managers " Insist your maintenance staff read this.

Another is www.dehs.umn.edu mold guide from the University of Minnesota

department of environmental health and safety. Look for the section on HVAC

remediation and maintenance. Here in Ohio, one Workers Comp indoor air

quality authority told me he recommends all HVAC equipment be thoroughly

cleaned at least twice yearly and disinfected with a chlorine disinfectant.

Also, all in-duct insulation should be removed. Air channels should be

smooth surface only, and all insulation outside the ducts. Another good

practice is to place slow release chlorine disinfectant tablets in the HVAC

drain pans.

Good luck getting anyone to listen.

Gil

Date: Fri, 28 Oct 2005 20:42:52 -0000

From: " ag90469 " <ag9046@...>

Subject: toxic mold

I have been sick for about 6-7 months. It all started with hives -- and

after much testing, biopsies, etc. the dermatologist called the chronic

uticaria - idioparthic (cause unknown). I then developed a

severe sinus infection - which was treated by my PCP by 30 days of Tequin

--- and I am still sick as ever. It's now developed into a cough, sneezing,

watery eyes, severe headaches - and overwhelming exhaustion. I am a nurse

in a pshcy hospital (very old.) I am to see the ENT man next week.

I personally cultured 2 air vents in the nursing station - and demanded the

infection control nurse send them for ID. The report came back yesterday --

5 different fungi were found!!!!!

Does anyone get better -- ever?