Dampness and Mold in Buildings

[Comment:  The following article on mold appears on the website of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control under Workplace Savety and Health Topcis.  It brielfy discusses the health effects of mold and acknowledges that some molds are toxic.]

 

Dampness and Mold in Buildings
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/mold.html

"Dampness results from water incursion either from internal sources (e.g. leaking pipes) or external sources (e.g. rainwater). Dampness becomes a problem when various materials in buildings (e.g., rugs, walls, ceiling tiles) become wet for extended periods of time. Excessive moisture in the air (i.e., high relative humidity) that is not properly controlled with air conditioning can also lead to excessive dampness. Flooding causes dampness. Dampness is a problem in buildings because it provides the moisture that supports the growth of bacteria, fungi (i.e., mold), and insects."