ARCHIVED - Recognize - Recognizing mould

Transcript - Recognize - Recognizing mould

Musical introduction
Title on screen

Dr. Thomas Dignan: "Mould naturally grows both inside and outside. It can cause health problems, especially if it is found in sufficient quantities inside your home.

This is because mould releases spores which are small enough that people can breathe them in. It is these spores, and the bi-products they produce inside homes, that can cause health problems and make existing health conditions worse.

Recognizing when you have mould in your home is an important step in protecting your health and your family's health. (doorbell) Here's more from an Environmental Health Officer about what mould is and where to look in your home."

Environmental Health Officer speaking to a mother and father: "Mould can be black, white or almost any colour. It often looks like a stain or a smudge and there is usually a musty smell associated with them.

There are many types of mould, all of them need moisture to grow and a material to grow on. Here on this window sill you can see that mould has started to grow. This is more than likely due to the condensation build up and wet wood and it is really more common during the winter months.

Here you can see that you have mould growth on this wall. This is probably due to a moisture build up or water damage in the drywall which as another mould friendly material.

The most common causes of mould growth are:

Condensation on surfaces due to high humidity, lack of ventilation, or low temperature. Steam or excess moisture in the air from baths, showers and cooking, if the area is not well ventilated.

Water leakage, such as from a roof or plumbing leak, a cracked basement or flooding.

The availability of mould friendly materials, such as wood, drywall, paper products or other damp materials."

Environmental Health Officer: "Understanding what causes mould to grow, can help you know where to look for it. Check the most common places for mould growth. These are:

The basement walls and floors. Under or behind stored items - especially those next to exterior walls or in the basement. Under the kitchen sink or bathroom sink.

On the wall or floor next to the bathtub or shower. At the bottom edge of windows. In a closet."

Environmental Health Officer: "Not all mould is obvious. It can grow where it can't be seen like inside walls or above ceiling tiles. So, check for mould anywhere that is damp or where water damage has happened."

Female Narrator: Recognizing a mould problem is an important step to protecting yourself and your family.

Now take the next step. Learn how to prevent it from growing and how to get rid of it by watching the next short video segment in this four-part information series on mould.