Indoor Air Quality

TOPICS ON THIS PAGE INCLUDE

MOLD

What is mold?
Molds are simple, microscopic organisms whose purpose in the ecosystem is to break down dead materials. Molds can be found on plants, wood, and on just about every other organic material. Molds are found in virtually every environment and can be detected, indoors and outdoors, year round. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions. Outdoors they can be found in shady, damp areas or places where leaves or other vegetation is decomposing. Indoors they can be found where humidity levels are high, such as basements or showers.

Some molds are useful, such as those used to make antibiotics and cheese. Some molds are known to be highly toxic when ingested, such as the types that invade grains and peanuts. Most of the mold found indoors comes from outdoors. Molds reproduce by very tiny particles called spores. The spores float in on the air currents and find a suitable spot to grow. Molds need three things to thrive- moisture, food and a surface to grow on. Molds can be seen throughout the house, and can be found in most bathrooms. Mold growth can often be seen in the form of discoloration or in many colors: white, orange, pink, blue, green, black or brown. When molds are present in large quantities (called colonies) they can cause health problems in some people.

Who does mold affect?
Mold spores can cause adverse reactions, much like pollen from plants. Mold spores cause health problems when they become airborne and are inhaled in large quantities. Everyone is exposed to mold in some concentration in the outdoor air. Indoor exposure to molds is not healthy for anyone. In particular, people with allergies, existing respiratory conditions or suppressed immune systems are especially susceptible to health problems from mold exposure. Additionally, infants and children, pregnant women and the elderly can be sensitive to the effects of mold exposure. Some molds are more hazardous than others. For some people, a small number of mold spores can cause health problems. For others, it may take many more.

Symptoms of mold exposure?
There are many symptoms of mold exposure. The extent of symptoms depends on the sensitivity of the exposed person. Allergic reactions are the most common and typically include: respiratory problems such as wheezing and difficulty breathing; nasal and sinus congestion; burning, watery, reddened eyes or blurry vision; sore throat; dry cough; nose and throat irritation; shortness of breath; and skin irritation. Other less common effects are: nervous system problems (headaches, memory loss, moodiness); aches and pains; and fever. If you have any of these symptoms, and they are reduced or completely gone when you leave the suspect area, chances are you are exposed to some sort of allergen, quite possibly mold.

How can I tell if I have mold in my home?
Some mold problems are obvious - you see it. Others are not as obvious. If you can see mold, or if there is a musty odor in your home, you probably have a mold problem. Areas that are wet, or have been wet due to flooding, leaky plumbing, a leaky roof, or areas that are humid (such as bathrooms and laundry rooms) are most likely to have mold growth. Look for previous water damage. Visible mold growth may be found underneath wallpaper and baseboards, behind walls, or may be evident by discolored plaster or drywall. If you don't have any observable mold, but smell a musty odor and/or experiencing symptoms likely to be mold-induced, the mold could be growing in areas you can't see, such as the interior of a wall.

If I have mold in my home, what should I do?
The first course of action is to determine why the mold is growing. Investigate any areas that are damp or wet and repair the source of the moisture. You could have a roof or plumbing leak. You could have groundwater leaking into your basement. Your air conditioning drip pan could have mold growing in it. Your air duct system could be contaminated with mold. If you see mold in your laundry room, chances are that your dryer is not properly vented to the outside. Clothes dryers generate humidity and should never be vented inside the house. Mold will grow on any surface that provides moisture and food. Substances that are porous, can trap molds, and cannot be properly cleaned such as paper, rags, wallboard and wood, should be thrown out.
After you have made all the repairs, it is time to clean.

• Use a non-ammonia household cleaner in hot water and scrub affected areas before sanitizing with the bleach solution.
• Wear gloves when handling moldy materials. Wear a facemask and protective clothing that is easily cleaned or may be discarded.
• Hard, non-porous materials can be cleaned with a solution of bleach and water, 10% bleach to 90% water. Use a sponge or cloth to wipe the area clean. Never mix bleach with other cleaning products; it can produce a toxic gas! It is important to clean thoroughly. If you leave some mold behind, the spores will be easily released back into the air when the material dries out
• Remove porous materials such as ceiling tiles, carpeting or sheetrock (drywall) and dispose of them. They are nearly impossible to clean and will surely produce more spores when dry.
• If mold is the result of flooding, remove all sheetrock to at least 12 inches above the high water mark. Visually inspect the interior of the walls to ensure that you removed all contaminated sheetrock.
• Allow the area to dry for 2-3 days after cleaning and sanitizing with bleach. Use fans and dehumidifiers to assist.
• Use a stiff brush to remove mold from block walls or uneven surfaces.
• Have family members or bystanders leave the area while cleaning or remediation is being done.

How can I keep mold from damaging my home?
Repair water damage as soon as it is noticed.

• Watch for signs of moisture, such as condensation on windows, cracking of walls, loosening of drywall tape or wallpaper, stained or warped wood, or musty odors.
• Install bathroom fans that vent humidity to the outside and run them for 30 minutes after a shower.
• Clean any moldy surfaces as soon as they are noticed.
• Keep the humidity level in the house below 40%.
• Use an air conditioner or a dehumidifier during humid months.
• Be sure the home has adequate ventilation, including exhaust fans in the kitchen, bathrooms, and for clothes dryers and make sure they are vented to outside, not an attic or basement!
• Do not carpet bathrooms and basements.
• Remove or replace previously soaked carpets, upholstery, furniture, and beds.
• Leave a nightlight on in mold prone areas (bathrooms, basements). Light inhibits mold growth.

More Ways to Prevent Mold Growth

BORAX POWDER can be used in mold-prone areas, like the bottom of the garbage can. Borax is a natural, effective anti-mold agent. Add to water (1 tbsp to 2 cups warm water) to clean moldy areas. Also add 1/2 cup to your wash load in addition to your laundry detergent.

WHITE VINEGAR can be used in shallow containers inside your cabinets to discourage musty odors. Apply to moldy areas with a sponge or sprayer. Let stand a few minutes then rinse off. Also add vinegar (1/2 cup) to your wash load.

ZEPHIRAN CONCENTRATE acts as a fungicide and germicide. Use 1 part Zephiran to 10 parts water.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE is a highly effective mold killer. Pour into a spray bottle and thoroughly spritz the affected areas. Avoid spraying on colored fabric.

ACTIVATED CHARCOAL can be used to absorb odors.

TURN ON THE LIGHTS. Light discourages mold growth. Use nightlights, even in the bathroom.

CIRCULATE THE AIR. Use small electric fans or ceiling fans to discourage mold growth.

GET RID OF DAMPNESS. Use dehumidifier in rooms, keeping drain pan meticulously clean. The ground under the house should be dry. Use fans or lights under the house to discourage mold, or have the ground under the house lined with plastic. Humidity in homes should be less than 40%.

KEEP THINGS CLEAN. Never hang clothes in the closet after they have been worn. Mold grows on them. Keep closets, dresser drawers, bathrooms, and refrigerator as clean and dry as possible.

CLEAN REFRIGERATOR DRIP TRAY and the rubber door gasket.

WET TOWELS AND WASHCLOTHS. Take wet items immediately to the laundry area. Hang them outside to dry if you have to postpone laundering. Do not dry clothes in the home.

PET LITTER. Change pet litter daily to reduce mold growth.

DISCARD DAMP PILES OF ODDS AND ENDS. Throw away old newspapers, magazines, old carpets, cast off furniture, dingy pillows, etc.

CARPETING. Remove heavy carpeting. Use light, washable throw rugs instead. Carpet is a lush haven for mold growth.

BATHROOM / SHOWER AREA
• Squeegee the shower walls after showering or wipe down the walls with a towel or sponge.
• Spread out the shower curtain. Use a small fan to quickly dry the shower or tub area.
• Leave a light on in the shower to discourage mold.
• Leave the fan on in the bathroom for a half hour after a shower to adequately vent the moisture out of the bathroom.

WALLPAPER. It is a haven for mold, especially in the bathroom. It also contains insecticides.

OLD MATTRESSES. should be replaced as they are a source of mold. Regularly air newer mattresses to discourage musty odors.

RAINSPOUTS. Extend the down spouts to carry the rainwater further away from the house.

HOUSEPLANTS. Do not over-water. Soil and plant may be sprayed with a solution of 3 teaspoons baking soda, mixed at the rate of 3 teaspoons per gallon of water, as an effective fungicide on flowers and shrubbery.

LINKS

A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture, and Your Home.
http://www.homeownersinsurance.org/identify-eliminate-mold/

Floods/Flooding
www.epa.gov/mold/flood/index.html

An Office Building Occupant's Guide to IAQ - epa.gov/iaq/pubs/occupgd.html

RADON

What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is a decay product of uranium. Though, we do not have high concentrations of uranium in the Leech Lake area, traces are common in ordinary rock and soil throughout much of the United States. This gas can then seep into our homes through cracks in home foundations and through your water.

Radon get in through:
1. Cracks in solid floors
2. Construction joints
3. Cracks in walls
4. Gaps in suspended floors
5. Gaps around service pipes
6. Cavities inside walls
7. The water supply

Why Should I care, its natural?
EPA estimates that radon causes between 15,000 and 22,000 lung cancer deaths every years in the United States. Radon is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Number 1 is smoking.

Any home can have a radon problem. Old, new, drafty, tight, with or without basements, crawlspaces, in all soil types, and after remodeling projects are all homes that have the potential to trap this deadly gas. One in 15 homes in the United States has radon levels above the 4 pCi/L threshold. In Minnesota 1 in 3 homes exceed this threshold.

How do you know if you have radon?
A simple test (usually costing $10) set up in the home for 3-7 days is all it takes. Results are then returned from the laboratory in two weeks.

You tested positive radon in your home. What should you do?
• First, Don't Panic!
• Second, if you have performed only a single test, EPA recommends a follow up test before fixing your home. Radon levels fluctuate naturally and it is important to know if the initial test was an accurate assessment of your home's average radon level, whether the high levels could have been caused by unusual weather, or there was a false reading with the test. Also if you had a high radon reading you should also test your water, it could be contributing to the problem.
• Third, fixing a radon problem in your home is straight-forward and relatively low cost. Most repairs cost $1,200 but can range from $500 to $2,000. Link: Consumers Guide to Radon Reduction http://www.epa.gov/iaq/radon/pubs/consguid.html

What are other risks compound radon exposure?
Smoking combined with radon is an especially serious health risk. Stopping smoking and lowering a high radon level are the best ways to help minimize your future risk of lung cancer.

Your chances of getting lung cancer from radon depend mostly on the following factors:

• How much radon is in your home
• The amount of time you spend in your home
• Whether you are a smoker or former smoker

High radon and smoking dramatically increases your chance of lung cancer. It's never too late to reduce your risk of lung cancer. Don't wait to test and fix a radon problem. If you are a smoker, stop smoking.

Link for Radon

For more detailed information on Radon please visit A Citizen’s Guide to Radon.
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/radon/pubs/citguide.html

FAQS

Q: I don’t need to test for radon; I have one of those detectors plugged into my wall.
A: What you are most likely referring to is Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector. These monitor the amounts of CO produced by incomplete combustion by gas furnaces, gas stoves, or other combustion sources in the home. Testing for radon does not require electricity and are for short time periods, usually one week to 3 months. Testing for radon is a passive air sample and consists of an activated charcoal packet or canister.

Q: How do you test for radon? Can I do it myself?
A. You can hire a professional to test your home, though it can be costly. On the other hand you can do a self test. You can find do-it-yourself test kits at your local hardware store or home center. However be warned that these tests have a shelf life and cost $20 to $30. We suggest ordering a test from a laboratory directly. Their price is usually less than $10. Most do-it-yourself test kits are very easy to use and get.

Q. What does a person do when they find high radon levels in their home?
A. We'll answer this by first asking: Have you retested to confirm that the radon levels are actually too high? (Do you have an average of over 4 pCi/l from the results of two or more short-term tests or from one long-term test of 90 days or more.)

More detailed information can be reviewed by clicking on the US EPA slide show .

Protecting Your Home From Radon. is a book by Doug Kladder. This book is the most complete source of information on radon mitigation techniques currently available.

If you want to hire a contractor (the cost will most likely run from $700 to $2500, according to the size of the building, etc.) then you will want to call your state radon officer and ask for a list of approved "Radon Mitigation Contractors." All of the state phone numbers are listed at the US EPA site under State Radon Contacts. If you want to locate an NEHA-certified mitigation contractor yourself, you will find a list of Residential Radon Mitigation Service Providers here.

For some official information on how to deal with a radon problem in your home check out the EPA's Consumer's Guide to Radon Reduction.

Or you may want to call the Radon Fix-it Line operated by the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) at 1-800-644-6999. They provide guidance and encouragement to consumers with elevated radon levels and will try to answer some of your most pressing questions. The Fix-it Line is only answered between noon and 8pm, Monday through Friday EST.

Q. Where can I get some information on radon in water?
A. The following is from the US EPA's Citizen's Guide to Radon:

If you've tested the air in your home and found a radon problem, and your water comes from a well, you should have your water tested for radon.

Compared with radon entering the home through soil, radon entering the home through water will in most cases be a small source of risk. Radon gas can enter the home through well water. It can be released into the air you breathe when water is used for showering and other household uses. Research suggests that swallowing water with high radon levels may pose risks, too, although risks from swallowing water containing radon are believed to be much lower than those from breathing air containing radon.

While radon in water is not a problem in homes served by most public water supplies, it has been found in well water. If you've tested the air in your home and found a radon problem, and your water comes from a well, contact a lab certified to measure radiation in water to have your water tested. Do-it-yourself radon-in-water test kit cost approximately for $19.95.

If you're on a public water supply that is pumped from wells and are concerned that radon may be entering your home through the water, call your public water supplier.

Radon problems in water can be readily fixed. The most effective treatment is to remove radon from the water before it enters the home. This is called point-of-entry treatment. Treatment at your water tap is called point-of-use treatment. Unfortunately, point-of-use treatment will not reduce most of the inhalation risk from radon.

Call your State Radon Contact or the EPA Drinking Water Hot line (800-426-4791) for more information on radon in water. Most areas of the US do NOT have a radon-in-water problem, therefore you should contact your state radon office before concerning yourself with this hazard.

Q. Are there other symptoms or health problems, other than lung cancer that are associated with radon gas exposure?
A. We receive this question from a lot of folks who have been suffering from various health problems and the basic answer is THERE ARE NO SHORT-TERM RADON EXPOSURE SYMPTOMS that have ever been documented. At least not at the levels you are likely to see in a home, school, or office. Also, YOU WILL NOT HAVE ANY OTHER bodily symptoms such as joint pain, stomach or intestinal problems, headaches, or rashes from short-term radon exposure at natural environmental levels.
It will take years of exposure at relatively high levels before you are likely to have ANY symptoms and then the only known (documented) symptoms are the same as those listed here for smoking induced Lung Cancer Symptoms.

Q. I heard the Leech Lake Air Quality Program has free kits to Leech Lake Community Members. How do I get one?
A. We did have kits available for community members free of charge in a one time offer from 2005-2007. We are still available to refer you to the laboratory we used and assist with testing.
We can be contacted at 218-335-7429.

ENVIRONMENTAL TOBACCO SMOKE

Environmental tobacco smoke, ETS, is smoke containing 4,000 different dangerous chemicals emitted from a burning cigarette, pipe or cigar. ETS is commonly known as secondhand smoke that affects non-smokers and the smoke that cigarette smokers breathe themselves.

Facts about Environmental Tobacco Smoke

•Smoking still remains the leading preventable cause of death, responsible for nearly one in five deaths and contributes to 30% of all cancer related deaths in the US.
•Causes premature death and disease in children and adults who do not smoke.
•Exposure of adults to ETS has adverse effects on the cardiovascular system and causes coronary artery disease and lung cancer.
•Scientific evidence indicates that there is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke (U.S. Surgeon General 2006)
•An estimated 126 million Americans, both adults and children, are still exposed to secondhand smoke in their homes and workplaces.
•In Minnesota, healthcare costs associated with smoking and secondhand exposure add up to nearly 400 dollars per person every year.
•Eliminating smoking in indoor spaces is the only way to fully protect nonsmokers from secondhand smoke exposure.
• Separating smokers from nonsmokers, cleaning the air, and ventilating buildings cannot eliminate secondhand smoke exposure.

Environmental Tobacco Smoke: Dangers for Children

Children who breathe in environmental tobacco smoke are at risk for many serious health problems and are affected by numerous ear infections, hearing problems, upper respiratory infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, coughing and wheezing. More immediate problems include stuffy nose, headaches, sore throat, eye irritation, nausea, loss of appetite, lack of energy and fussiness. Asthma is one of the most common health problems associated with ETS. Exposure to just 10 cigarettes per day will raise the child's chances of getting asthma even if that child has never had any symptoms.

Prevent children from being exposed to ETS by not smoking in your home or vehicle. Smoking in your vehicle with children and the windows rolled up is twice as bad as a smoke-filled bar because of the microenvironment in your vehicle. Opening your windows is still not enough to clear the air. In addition, almost 50% of the homes in the U.S. have at least one smoker living there. This means that millions of children are exposed to ETS in their homes and may expose children to higher chances of developing unwanted health problems.

Smoking during pregnancy

When a mother smokes during pregnancy, the unborn baby will have a higher chance of becoming premature, having a low birth weight, developing childhood cancer and an increase risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). In addition, tobacco smoke may be contributed to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Unborn babies are also exposed to the same chemicals in cigarette smoke and are deprived of oxygen essential for the developing young one to grow to be a healthy baby. Inhaling smoke from cigarettes of others is just as dangerous for women for do not smoke. Smoking by a pregnant woman may contribute to respiratory symptoms and slows lung growth in their children.

Tobacco smoke hazards indoors

P.M. 2.5 is air pollutant particulates that have a diameter smaller than 2.5 microns that are easily inhaled deeply into the lungs. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has found that fine particulate air pollutants can cause serious health effects, including respiratory symptoms and disease, decreased lung function and alterations in lung tissue and structure.

LINKS

www.smokefreebeltrami.org
www.jointogether.org
www.clearwaymn.org
www.cdc.gov/tobacco/quit_smoking/index.htm

Exposure to Secondhand Smoke Among Students Aged 13--15 Years Worldwide, 2000--2007
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/

State-Specific Prevalence of Smoke-Free Home Rules United States,
1992--2003
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/

Contact Us

(218) 335-7400 DRM

Name	Title	Phone
Brown, Levi	Environmental Director	335-7417
Toft, Brandy	Air Quality Specialist	335-7429
Benoit, Ben	Air Quality Technician / UST	(218) 335-7441

Current Air Quality