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By Mould is a fungus that can grow indoors or outdoors in warm and cold climates. Mould spores are found everywhere. Unfortunately, these conditions are also ideal for mould to grow in offices.
Mould can be a severe problem in any office environment. Left unchecked, it can spread quickly through the office interior, causing damage to documents and computer equipment. Mould spores can also pose a health risk to employees, causing respiratory problems and allergic reactions. As these microorganisms thrive in damp, dark conditions, it is essential to keep the office well-ventilated and free of clutter.
When they find their favourite breeding ground, they begin to multiply. If you suspect that there may be mould growing in your office, these are five unexpected places to check:
HVAC systems
Mould grows best in warm, damp environments. The HVAC systems are often prime breeding grounds for mold spores. That’s because HVAC systems circulate warm air and moisture, providing the perfect conditions for mold growth.
Keep the storage space dry to prevent mold from growing in the system. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help to remove mold spores before they have a chance to take hold. In addition, you should make sure that the system is adequately ventilated to allow moisture to escape.
Office pantry and kitchen
Mould, bacteria, and other common office pests may flourish in unused food and containers that are not washed or discarded thoroughly. Leftover food creates the ideal breeding ground for these organisms. Even paper items that are allowed to become wet for an extended period and then stored in a dark environment can foster mold growth.
Check under the refrigerator in the pantry of your office as well. Molds may be able to thrive under your refrigerator because there is not a lot of air circulation there. This makes it an ideal place for them to hide.
Carpets and rugs
Carpets and rugs are particularly susceptible to the growth of mold because they provide an environment that is warm, dark, and moist. Here are some carpet and rug maintenance suggestions to prevent mould growth.
Vacuum carpets in an office regularly to reduce organic particles in the carpet. Engage professional carpet cleaning service at least once a year to help thoroughly clean the carpet fibers.
When rugs are not being used, they should either be hung up or rolled out to get some fresh air. If you have recently had a water leak or flooding in your office, be sure to check for mold growth in any carpeted areas.
Bookshelves
Because books are frequently kept in damp or dark environments, mold spores find them to be an ideal breeding ground. You must take prompt action if you detect any signs of mold growing on your bookshelves or any musty odors coming from your bookshelves.
To begin, remove all the books from the shelves, and then use a damp cloth to clean the surfaces of the frames. If the mold has spread throughout a large area, you will require a more powerful cleaning solution. After you have removed the papers and books with visible mould, thoroughly dry the shelves. Then place the books back in their original positions.
Restrooms
Mould can flourish in humid environments such as restrooms with insufficient air circulation and little sunlight exposure. This confluence of conditions produces an environment where mould spores can flourish to their full potential.
To reduce mould growth, ensure the toilet’s ventilation system functions efficiently. Maintain a clean and dry environment and paint the walls and ceilings with paint resistant to mildew.
Regular cleaning and maintenance will help to prevent mold growth. Still, if you suspect that there is a problem, you should call in a professional like De Hygienique to assess the situation.
De Hygienique offers mould removal treatment for home and commercial spaces. Taking prompt action will help to limit the damage and keep your workplace safe for everyone. Contact us now for a no-obligation consultation.
