Responding to Indoor Mold Concerns: A Resource for Environmental Public Health Professionals
2. Background 2.1 Public Health Significance
the International Building Code, that apply to conditions in residential housing and facilities with other occupancy types.
Addressing indoor moisture and mold remains a persistent challenge and is expected to worsen with increasing extreme weather and flooding. Mold can grow on most moist surfaces, and indoor problems commonly stem from structural housing deficiencies including roof or plumbing leaks, inadequate ventilation, or flooding (Felipo & Charpin, 2022; Park & Cox-Gasner, 2022). Low-income and minority communities may be disproportionately affected by indoor mold due to a greater likelihood of residing in older housing with conditions and deficiencies that can lead to mold growth (Pacheco et al., 2014; Reponen et al., 2013). Indoor mold is both a sanitation and health issue, commonly associated with allergic reactions and respiratory symptoms or disease (American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2003). 2.2 Regulatory and Legal Framework Regulations for addressing indoor mold vary by setting and jurisdiction, and no federal health-based exposure standards currently exist. Applicable requirements often depend on building type, use, and occupancy. Certain facilities such as schools, restaurants, hospitals, and tourist accommodations might be subject to health, safety, or sanitation codes that require corrective action when mold or unsanitary conditions are present, even if mold is not explicitly mentioned in regulations. For example, food service establishments must maintain sanitary conditions under food codes, and workplaces must remain free from unsafe conditions under occupational health and safety regulations. In residential housing, regulations do not typically apply to owner- occupied homes but might be more common for multi-unit or rental properties. State and local codes, including public health nuisance, sanitation, and housing quality provisions, are usually the most enforceable. For example, landlord–tenant statutes often require landlords to repair leaks and water damage that contribute to mold growth. The International Code Council publishes codes, including
EPH professionals should be familiar with applicable laws, codes, and regulations, and apply professional judgment when interpreting them. Relevant legislation and statutes can be accessed through state and local law databases, online platforms, or in coordination with supervisors, legal counsel, or agency partners. Responsibilities for addressing indoor mold might be shared with or fall under the purview of other government agencies or organizations, depending on facility type, applicable laws, and other circumstances. Collaboration with local code enforcement, building departments, and housing inspection programs is sometimes necessary. While federal agencies do not regulate indoor mold, their guidance might provide a scientific foundation for assessments, complaint responses, recommendations, and enforcement justification. EPH professionals involved in mold assessments might become involved in legal actions if their reports are used as evidence, if they are named as an expert witness, if their work is challenged, or in code enforcement. It is important to maintain thorough documentation, follow recognized guidance and codes, and define the scope and limitations of the assessment.
2
Powered by FlippingBook