SG5200 measuring devices to precisely measure mold
The measuring device SG5200 can be used to measure various hazardous substances, including mold. The SG5200 can be used both for personal sampling, such as in the breathing zone, as well as stationary for up to two hours at up to 5000 ml/min for mold measurement. The SG5200 measuring devices are easy to operate and can generate a large volume flow range for measurement.
Mold measurements may be necessary, for example, if there are structural defects. The reason for the measurement is often the question of who has to bear the costs of removal.
How is mold defined and what factors promote its growth?
The common term mold is used to describe mold spores.
In common parlance, mold mainly refers to the visible spread of spores.
In living spaces, the damage is usually characterized by brownish to black spots. Mold spores are naturally present in the ambient air.
Mold growth occurs as soon as various conditions are met:
- Humidity (min. 60%)
- Culture medium (organic material: wood, lime, etc.)
- Temperature (15-25°C)
While the amount of water vapor released into the air in the home does not play a major role in the summer months, it can quickly become a problem in winter.
If heating is used accordingly, less ventilation is provided (often out of a desire to save money). This can lead to humidity not being able to escape.
If ventilation is inadequate, the air cannot be fully exchanged and a relatively high level of humidity remains indoors.
Structural defects (e.g. faulty insulation) or water damage can also cause moisture ingress. It is important to find and eliminate the cause in order to prevent renewed mold infestation.
Health hazards due to mold
It is common knowledge that mold infestation in the home is bad. But why is it so dangerous?
Depending on the type of mold, the spores are between 2 and 20 µm in size and spread over a large area in the environment.
In this way, the spores can enter the lungs via the respiratory tract and cause irritation. Contact with the mucous membranes can also trigger symptoms. Non-specific symptoms such as headaches, breathing difficulties or tiredness often occur.
As a rule, the symptoms disappear as soon as the mold infestation has been removed. Prolonged exposure, for example if the causes of the mold have not been fully remedied, can lead to chronic symptoms.
That is why swift action and combating the causes are fundamental in the fight against mold, especially in living spaces.
Preventing the formation of mold
A few tips for preventing mold:
- Regular airing (even in winter!): at least 3 times a day for approx. 10 minutes
- Quick action in the event of acute water damage
- Special anti-mold wallpaper (cold-heat bridge)
By the way: The frequently shared household tip that vinegar helps against mold is unfortunately a fallacy. The acid concentration of vinegar is far too low to effectively eliminate the spores. Furthermore, a neutralization reaction can take place with calcareous walls/ceilings, which in turn is an ideal breeding ground for mould spores.
If you have any questions about an acute mold infestation or about the possibilities of a mold measurement, please contact us.
Sources:
[1]: https://www.gesundheit.de/familie/freizeit-und-zuhause/hygiene-und-hausputz/schimmelpilze-gefahr-fuer-die-gesundheit
[2]: https://www.saarbruecker-zeitung.de/saarland/saar-pfalz-kreis/homburg/verbraucherzentrale-geben-tipps-wie-man-schimmel-vermeiden-kann_aid-48149729
[3]: https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/themen/gesundheit/umwelteinfluesse-auf-den-menschen/schimmel#textpart-2
[4]: https://www.umweltbundesamt.de/sites/default/files/medien/378/publikationen/ratgeber_schimmel_im_haus_0.pdf