Mold and Fungi

Although the term “mold” (or “mould”) is commonly used to describe fungi associated with food spoilage, plant pathogens or fungal material on wet and damp surfaces, it is not a scientific term of the fungal taxonomy. Dampness and mold in homes have been associated with increase of childhood wheeze and cough and other adverse health effects ⁽¹⁾. Adverse health effects to indoor mold exposure include but are not limited to respiratory infections, asthma, allergic bronchopumonary mycosis (ABPM), allergic fungal sinusitis (AFS), and hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP). Visible mold, moldy or musty odor, water damage as well general dampness and moisture are all good indicators for moldy conditions of an indoor environment. A mold inspection will typically take the combination of those factors into account and support the evidence through mold testing.

Non-Viable Mold

Non-viable analysis by direct microscopy is the most widely used method to identify mold spores because it is convenient and cost effective. The disadvantage of non-viable testing is that mold spores can be more difficult to identify to the genus level.

Viable Mold

Viable analysis using standard mycology practices provides a more accurate identification of mold spores because the cultured samples are more easily identifiable to the genus level. The disadvantage of viable testing is that it takes 7 to 14 days to culture samples and often not all the mold spore types proliferate.

Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

IAQ analysis can be performed for dust characterization, allergens, and a number of other IAQ contaminants. Microscopy techniques vary depending on the sample type.

Eurofins Built Environment Testing

Eurofins Built Environment Testing is the industry leader for mold testing and other indoor air quality (IAQ) services. Our laboratories are AIHA LAP, LLC accredited for microbiology including a wide range of mold tests. Built Environment does not only offer comprehensive services with exceptional quality and customer service but also offers a number of innovative tools for mold data interpretations to support our clients.

_References

_{¹ Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Damp Indoor Spaces and Health. Damp Indoor Spaces and Health. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004.}