Often several experts must be retained, including experts in toxicology and epidemiology. Responding to mold involves more than just determining and fixing the source of the water. A number of companies investigate mold and will come up with action plans to address it. Ask for the help of contractors, the building designer and environmental experts to assess, identify and repair the source.
To stop further mold growth, the landlord or you must investigate and fix the source of the water or moisture. Do the same if you are the building owner.Ĭall in professionals to make an assessment. If the landlord does not act, put it on notice that you intend to act and that you will hold it responsible for the costs. If your building is experiencing water penetration, consistent moisture or leaks, demand that the landlord investigate the cause and promptly provide you with an action plan. Address Moisture or Water Issues Promptly.Any other serious water related problem.Improper landscaping design or maintenance outside the building, causing water to flow toward the building.There are a number of potential causes of moisture or water entry: Although one-time leaks or burst water pipes may not be a problem if repaired, even a one-time leak, if not properly addressed, can cause unacceptable mold growth. Water does not have to flow into the building for there to be enough moisture to promote the growth of mold. Mold needs water or moisture and oxygen to grow. Although these symptoms could result from other factors, it is important to address them. If you own the building, consider hiring an air quality investigator. If numerous employees complain, or if employees complain of moldy smells, put the building owner on notice and request an investigation.
Alert your human resources department and/or office manager to be aware of any such symptoms.
#Sick building syndrome mold skin
Physical symptoms related to exposure to mold or sick building syndrome include eye, nose and throat irritation respiratory complaints skin irritation nausea dizziness and fatigue. People with immune-compromised systems may experience permanent health effects. Although the health problems of mold exposure are in debate, there is literature tying some health effects to mold exposure. However, certain species of mold spores, in large enough concentrations, can be toxic. Mold is present in all buildings in some form and quantity. With all of this attention, you may think that mold infestation is something new or uncommon. As an employer and/or a building owner, what can you do to try to limit your legal liability? Workers who believe they are being exposed to mold may not want to work, their productivity may decline and they may file worker's compensation and disability claims. Last year, Representative John Conyers of Detroit introduced a proposed bill, the "United States Toxic Mold Safety and Protection Act of 2002," intended to set standards for indoor mold levels and to provide for related research.ĭue to increased public awareness, almost mounting to hysteria, the number of legal claims is sure to mount. Mold has even reached the attention of the U.S. Even Hollywood is involved: Ed McMahon sued his insurer for $20 million, claiming that toxic mold in his Beverly Hills home killed his dog. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was sued by employees claiming they became ill because of mold exposure while working at EPA headquarters. Mold, in the words of some, is becoming "the next asbestos."Īn $8 billion class-action lawsuit was brought by 300 tenants in a large apartment building in New York. Multi-million dollar verdicts are not unheard of. Lawsuits arising out of mold and claiming "sick building syndrome" are common. Mold is a favored word among lawyers and a feared word among building owners, employers and landlords.
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