Indoor Air Quality: Mold

Molds belong to the kingdom fungi and are found virtually everywhere, including indoors. Molds require certain environmental conditions to proliferate indoors, primarily where sources of organic material and sufficient moisture are present. Excessive mold contamination can lead to the degredation and deterioration of building materials, such as ceiling tiles and drywall. Exposure to high levels of mold spores has also been shown to cause adverse health effects in some susceptible individuals.   

As of January 1, 2005, mold assessment and remediation activities are regulated within the state by the Texas Mold Assessment and Remediation Rules (25 TAC §295.301 – 295.338). There are currently no federal regulations governing mold.

These regulations contain requirements for the licensing and registration of persons performing mold assessments and mold remediation activities where areas of mold contamination are found in excess of 25 contiguous square feet. They also contain requirements for the accreditation of mold training providers, minimum work standards for the conduct of mold assessments and remediation by licensed and registered persons, a code of ethics, and penalties for non-compliance. Small areas of mold contamination (less than 25 contiguous square feet) are exempt from these regulations and may be remediated internally by building maintenance or remodeling staff.

EHS employs several licensed Mold Assessment Consultants and oversees all mold related projects. Please contact EHS if any mold is found within the UTHSC-H buildings. EHS will survey the area to determine the extent of contamination, the applicability of the Texas Mold Rules, and/or recommend the course of action for both exempt mold remediation projects and those that fall under the Rules.

Water Damaged Ceiling Tiles with Mold Growth

For further information call EH&S at 500-8100, or visit the following links:

CDC site concerning mold

US Environmental Protection Agency mold information

US EPA mold resources