Review : Occupational Exposure to Moulds in Buildings

Abstract

Airborne moulds are ubiquitous and have evolved to exploit the man-made spatial ecosystems of our built environment. In the enclosed environment, especially where there is dampness and condensation, they manip ulate the microclimates and ecological niches of our buildings and feed on a variety of substrates. Over the last century, the management of mould problems in buildings has largely relied on a misunderstanding and misdiagnosis of the biology, ecology and physiology of the causal organisms. Mould growth in buildings may affect the health of occupants in many ways and may contribute to the sick-building syndrome as well as aller gy and other environmental health problems. The conse quences of occupational exposure to moulds are gaining prominence because of demands for better working con ditions. There is a need to look after and hopefully improve the health, comfort and productivity of a build ing's occupants.