Mold in the workplace

Employees usually try to watch out for dangerous risks in their workplace. The risks from chemicals improperly or poorly maintained equipment marked are quite obvious, but what about the problems that may be difficult or impossible to detect under normal circumstances? Mold can grow on the ceiling or interior walls, causing health problems for workers, but that remains completely invisible.

Mold spores are constantly present in the environment - there are over 1,000 species in the U.S. alone. When mold spores take hold and begin to grow inside, however, some problems can develop. The mold uses organic materials and can cause unpleasant odors, colors and wood-frame buildings, possible due to structural integrity problems. Mold does not need sunlight to grow. All it requires is moisture and a source of material for food, which means colonies can easily take hold in the dark, hard to find areas of buildings.

Most of the health effects of mold are fairly typical allergic reactions. Persistent runny nose, red eyes, sore throat and other symptoms similar to hay fever may indicate that a person has been working around toxic molds. Mold can also cause infections of the skin or mucous membranes. Systemic infections may be a risk for individuals with problems of existing immunity. People who are severely allergic to mold can suffer from respiratory problems, including asthma attacks.

Even if the public of the potential for mold cause health problems is greatly increased, there are no federal regulations regarding air concentrations of mold in the workplace. This does not mean that the mold can not hurt you. The employer must keep the workplace without loss, ponds, areas of condensation or high humidity, dirty HVAC systems to prevent mold growth. If you notice water damage, mold or moldy, or losses, or if your colleagues have complained of symptoms discussed above, you should tell your employer that you are concerned there may be a mold problem.

Remedy a serious mold infestation is not an easy task. Due to the cost of locating and completely clean the mold, your employer may be reluctant to investigate the situation. If they refuse, you may need to consider pursuing legal action to ensure that your workplace is safe and that you receive any compensation you may deserve.

For more information on cases involving mold in the workplace, visit the Web site of Philadelphia workers compensation attorneys' Lowenthal and Abrams, PC ......