The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #55451

Laura Kolb, MPH, Indoor Environments Division, US Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Mailcode 6609J, Washington, DC 20460, 202-564-9438, kolb.laura@epa.gov

This presentation will focus on mold issues, and questions and answers for health professionals who respond to mold questions. It is important to the public to have their health related questions on mold answered as well as to get practical information on how to resolve their mold issues. The focus will be on how to respond to calls from homeowners and renters in a residential situation.

This presentation will include a discussion of common mold problems and prevention tips that can useful when discussing mold questions with the public. Many indoor mold problems can be prevented if a building is properly maintained. In order to prevent or control mold, it is essential to control indoor water or moisture. When unexpected water leaks or floods occur it is important to resolve the water problem quickly. Prevention is key in the case of mold, if there isn't a water problem, then there isn't a mold problem.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidance on mold will be discussed briefly as one tool that may be used to respond to mold questions from the public.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn what causes and how to prevent common mold problems,
• Briefly review health effects and other background information on mold
• Learn how to answer some common mold-related questions from homeowners and renters with a focus on mold prevention 4 Briefly review & become familiar with EPA residential mold guidance as a resource for health professionals

Keywords: Air Quality, Prevention

Related Web page: www.epa.gov/iaq/molds

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employee of the U.S. EPA