When someone mentions mold it brings to mind visions of green bread or cheese that has been left in the refrigerator too long - things you just throw into the trash without much thought. However, molds are an essential part of our environment. They break down trees, leaves and other types of organic matter; and mold is responsible for some of the foods and medicines that we have today. But inside buildings mold can be unsightly, smell, and cause health problems to the buildings occupants. Cleaning staff may be responsible to either remediate mold that already exists or to prevent mold from growing inside buildings. Knowing the basics about mold can help to put preventive measures into place.

Molds can grow almost anywhere as long as moisture (water), an organic food source and oxygen is present. There are roughly 1,000 species of mold spores in the United States and more than 100,000 species worldwide. Mold is generally not a problem unless the spores land on a damp spot and begin growing. There are varieties of mold that grow on wood, paper, carpet, insulation and even everyday dust and dirt.

There is no way to remove all the mold spores that are inside buildings. However, mold is usually not a problem unless the spores land on a damp spot and begin growing and multiplying. If left unchecked, mold can grow on furniture, carpet, building materials, and in extreme cases have even caused structural damage.

Mold thrives in buildings that have excessive moisture. The tightly sealed buildings of today have resulted in decreased ventilation, which can lead to increased moisture levels inside buildings. In addition, moisture problems can result from leaking roofs, over-watering plants, gutters that direct water inside a building and improperly maintained appliances.

Controlling moisture is the key to keeping mold from growing and thriving in buildings. Quickly clean up any water leaks and dry thoroughly. Following are additional mold prevent tips:

*Look for any condensation areas and wet spots in buildings. Pinpoint and fix the source of the moisture.

*Fix any plumbing leaks as soon as possible.

*Prevent moisture from condensing on to surfaces by increasing the air temperature, increasing air circulation and reducing the moisture level in the building. Reduce the moisture level by repairing any leaks and use a dehumidifier if necessary.

*Keep the HVAC system properly maintained. Change filters regularly and keep drip pans clean.

*Appliances that produce moisture (such as dryers) should be vented to the outside.

*Cooking and bathroom areas should be properly vented.

*Quickly pinpoint areas where any leaks have occurred. Then identify what has caused the leak and take the right preventive measures to prevent the leak from reoccurring.

If a building has a mold problem one of the following reasons may be noticeable:

*Furniture, carpeting or other building materials may have water damage

*Musty or moldy type odors

*Building occupants may be experiencing health problems that they feel are related to mold: sneezing, headaches, nausea

*Existing moisture problems or standing water in areas of the building

Buildings that have a mold problem will need a remediation plan to identify and correct the conditions that have allowed the mold growth. The plan will also include steps to remove or clean any mold damaged materials. However, the first step is to clean up the current mold problem and then work with a specialist to decide how to correct and prevent the problem from reoccurring.

When cleaning up the mold it is important to remember that killing the mold is not enough. The mold itself must be removed. There are chemicals that exist even in dead mold spores that can cause a reaction in humans. There are several cleanup methods available. The specific method or combination of methods to use depends on the material that has the mold damage:

Wet Vacuum or ShopVac. These are vacuum cleaners that collect water. These vacuums work on floors, carpets, and other hard surfaces where water has collected. Do not use a wet vac to remove water from porous materials, such as insulation or gypsum board. Only use wet vacuums on wet materials. Mold spores may be released into the building if there is not enough liquid present. Thoroughly clean and the equipment, tanks, hoses, and attachments after use to prevent the mold from growing in the vacuum.

Damp Wipe. Clean nonporous surfaces by damp wiping or scrubbing with water and detergent. Dry the surfaces quickly and thoroughly to discourage further mold growth. Remember to read and follow any specific instructions for special surfaces.

HEPA Vacuum. A high-efficiency particulate air vacuum is recommended for the final cleanup in any mold infested areas. Make sure that all materials are thoroughly dried and remove any contaminated items. You should also use a HEPA vacuum to cleanup any nearby areas where dust may have settled. When it is time to change the filter, employees should wear a respirator and suitable personal protective equipment to prevent exposure to any of the captured mold. Place the filter and any collected material in impermeable bags and then dispose of the bags appropriately.

Disposing of Mold Damaged Materials. Dispose of damaged materials like construction waste. Place the materials in impermeable bags or closed containers or cover large materials with polyethylene sheeting and seal them with duct tape.

Use of Biocides. Using biocides like bleach, is not a recommended practice for removing mold. If a remediation expert does recommend using a biocide, only use the chemical in a well ventilated area. Bleaches and other biocides are toxic to people and animals and should only be used according to the label's directions.

Clean the affected area when the room or building is not occupied. Any contaminated materials that cannot be cleaned should be removed first. Workers should wear the proper personal protective equipment -- respirators, gloves and goggles. Once cleaned, dry the areas quickly and thoroughly.

After cleanup, make sure the underlying cause of the mold has been addressed or mold growth will reoccur. Building owners must place emphasis on preventing contamination by making sure that any water leaks or excessive moisture problems are fixed. Keeping mold at bay is essential for a healthy indoor environment. Remember, mold spores will always be present, but removing the standing or excessive water that molds need to grow, will prevent the spores from becoming an unsightly and unhealthy problem.