Friday, October 31, 2008
Why New Homes Are "Moldier"
New homes are said to be "moldier" than homes constructed 20 to 30 years ago. This is because new home construction design and the building materials used can be more conducive to toxic mold growth and infestation. For example, so-called "fake stucco" constitutes an excellent source of nourishment for toxic mold, particularly when wet. Current insulation techniques can trap moisture behind walls. In addition, today's homes (and office buildings) are more airtight, with the result that air-conditioning and heating systems often re-circulate air that has been contaminated with toxic mold spores.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
How Much Is Too Much?
A lot of our clients call after obtaining a mold report and what those test results interpreted. Do I have a mold problem?
Mold cases prove difficult due to some very practical limitations. Generally, there have been limited studies on the inhalation, rather than ingestion, of mold. Further, there have been limited studies on the effects of low level, habitual exposure to mold spores. Finally, indoor air sampling can be somewhat erratic given molds volatile nature.
Generally, when evaluating a mold case, we tell our clients to look for the following basic guidelines:
1. Indoor air count of a particular type of mold exceeds 100 CFUs/m2
2. The indoor air count is greater than the outdoor air count
3. There are molds present indoors that are not present outdoors
4. There type of mold found indoors is generally considered allergic
If you believe you are having health problems due to exposure to mold, we highly recommend you contact a certified industrial hygienist. We have a list of contacts at our office if you are unsure who to call.
Mold cases prove difficult due to some very practical limitations. Generally, there have been limited studies on the inhalation, rather than ingestion, of mold. Further, there have been limited studies on the effects of low level, habitual exposure to mold spores. Finally, indoor air sampling can be somewhat erratic given molds volatile nature.
Generally, when evaluating a mold case, we tell our clients to look for the following basic guidelines:
1. Indoor air count of a particular type of mold exceeds 100 CFUs/m2
2. The indoor air count is greater than the outdoor air count
3. There are molds present indoors that are not present outdoors
4. There type of mold found indoors is generally considered allergic
If you believe you are having health problems due to exposure to mold, we highly recommend you contact a certified industrial hygienist. We have a list of contacts at our office if you are unsure who to call.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Welcome!!
This is attorney Anthony Thompson from the Law Office of Harold D. Thompson. A majoirty of our practice is devoted to representing tenants, property owners and employees in the prosecution of mold cases involving injury to persons or property.
Mold is becoming a big problem, especially in San Diego County. The purpose of this blog is to keep you informed on the latest news and trends related to the profiliferation of our little (but potentially dangerous) fungal friend.
Of course, if have questions about anything you read here I would encourage you to call me or visit our website at www.thompsonlawsd.com
Mold is becoming a big problem, especially in San Diego County. The purpose of this blog is to keep you informed on the latest news and trends related to the profiliferation of our little (but potentially dangerous) fungal friend.
Of course, if have questions about anything you read here I would encourage you to call me or visit our website at www.thompsonlawsd.com
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