[Many moulds can begin growing at 4 °C (39 °F), the temperature within a typical refrigerator, or less. When conditions do not enable growth, moulds may remain alive in a dormant state depending on the species, within a large range of temperatures before they die. The many different meld species vary enormously in their tolerance to temperature and humidity extremes. Certain moulds can survive harsh conditions such as the snow-covered soils of Antarctica, refrigeration, highly acidic solvents, and even petroleum products such as jet fuel. Xerophilic moulds use the humidity in the air as their only water source; other moulds need more moisture. Mold has a musty odour.] [1]
Moulds are fungi that are found
everywhere – both indoors and outdoors all year round. The terms fungi and mould
are often used interchangeably, but mould is actually a type of fungi. Concern
about indoor exposure to mould has increased along with public awareness that
exposure to mould can cause a variety of adverse health effects. There are many
thousands of species of mould and most if not all of the mould found indoors
comes from outdoor sources. It seems likely to grow and become a problem only
when there is water damage, high humidity, or dampness.
Moulds produce and release millions of
spores small enough to be air-, water-, or insect-borne. They can also produce
toxic agents known as mycotoxins. Spores and mycotoxins can have negative
effects on human health. For those people who are affected by mould exposures
there can be a wide variation in how they react. People at greatest risk of
health effects are individuals with allergies, asthma, sinusitis, or other
respiratory conditions, as well as infants and children, elderly people, and
pregnant women. In addition, individuals with a weakened immune system are at
risk.
The presence of bacteria and mould in
vehicle interiors
Dr. Charles P. Gerba and
Sheri L. Maxwell set out to test the presence of bacteria and mould in vehicle
interiors. There were 100 vehicles involved in the test in the states of
Illinois, Arizona, Florida, California and Washington, D.C., to provide a good
cross-section of climatic conditions across the country. The following lists
some of the results of their testing’s.
Most germs present:
1.
Radio knob
1.
Seat belt
2.
Window opener
3.
Steering wheel
4.
Car seat
Places with most Staphylococcus aureus
(most common form of Staph infections:
1.
Steering wheel
2.
Seat belt
3.
Cup holder
4.
Dash board
5.
Window opener
Most mould spores:
1.
Cup holder
2.
Food spills
3.
Change holder
4.
Dash board
5.
Steering wheel
Cities with the most bacteria in vehicles
(from a select sample):
1.
Tucson, AZ
2.
Oakland/Pleasanton, CA
3.
Chicago
4.
Washington, D.C.
5.
Tampa, FL
Mould (Mold)
Bacteria, moulds, pollen, and viruses are types of biological contaminants. Moulds do not require liquid water to grow. They only require relative humidity levels from 65% to 99% at the surface on which they grow. If you keep the humidity low enough, you can prevent mould growth. Maintaining relative humidity below 50% inhibits mould and mildew growth and bacteria. These contaminants may also breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in a/c ducts, drain pans, or overflow pipe. Physical symptoms related to biological contamination include cough, chest tightness, fever, chills, muscle aches, and allergic responses such as mucous membrane irritation and upper respiratory congestion.
Bacteria, moulds, pollen, and viruses are types of biological contaminants. Moulds do not require liquid water to grow. They only require relative humidity levels from 65% to 99% at the surface on which they grow. If you keep the humidity low enough, you can prevent mould growth. Maintaining relative humidity below 50% inhibits mould and mildew growth and bacteria. These contaminants may also breed in stagnant water that has accumulated in a/c ducts, drain pans, or overflow pipe. Physical symptoms related to biological contamination include cough, chest tightness, fever, chills, muscle aches, and allergic responses such as mucous membrane irritation and upper respiratory congestion.
Without identifying and
eliminating the source of the mould you can't get rid of it, there are many
Counteractant type products that mask odours; what you need to do is remove and
clean and thoroughly dry the whole area; carpets, upholstery (inc foam and etc.)
that is affected, including the headliner and metal floor pan (don’t forget to
clean/replace the cabin air filter).
Just like mould and mildew contamination in other areas, you cannot wash or shampoo it away. This only exasperates the problem. Mould is a form of fungus which forms anywhere there’s moisture trapped in the air, and is spread by releasing millions of tiny spores into the air. You cannot see the spores but you may be able to see moulds, grey, green or black in colour, growing on damp surfaces.
Dirt and moisture are essential to mildew propagation, which is very difficult to eradicate as mould uses enzymes to digest nutrients from organic materials, the mould forms on top of the material and also down into its fibres leaving circular or black spots in an irregular pattern. Mould / mildew needs to be neutralized as it will not dissipate without treatment as the spores are still present and moisture will regenerate them. When mould spores are present in large quantities, they can present a health hazard to humans, potentially causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Some moulds also produce Mycotoxin’s that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals.
There are many Counteractants products that only mask odours; what you need to do is remove and clean and disinfect the whole area; carpets, upholstery (including the upholstery foam and etc.) that is affected, including the headliner and metal floor pan. Don’t forget to clean/replace the cabin air filter.
Remove the seats and thoroughly clean the carpet with a carpet cleaner and a disinfectant. Then let it air dry, or use a heater to ensure that they are completely dry. To neutralize mould use 10:1 Distiller water / (non-chlorine) bleach solution, use a syringe to inject solution into seating foam, you may need to remove and replace the carpet padding. Steam clean HVAC vents and replace cabin air filter (See also “Allergen and Germ Removal Systems”)
Just like mould and mildew contamination in other areas, you cannot wash or shampoo it away. This only exasperates the problem. Mould is a form of fungus which forms anywhere there’s moisture trapped in the air, and is spread by releasing millions of tiny spores into the air. You cannot see the spores but you may be able to see moulds, grey, green or black in colour, growing on damp surfaces.
Dirt and moisture are essential to mildew propagation, which is very difficult to eradicate as mould uses enzymes to digest nutrients from organic materials, the mould forms on top of the material and also down into its fibres leaving circular or black spots in an irregular pattern. Mould / mildew needs to be neutralized as it will not dissipate without treatment as the spores are still present and moisture will regenerate them. When mould spores are present in large quantities, they can present a health hazard to humans, potentially causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Some moulds also produce Mycotoxin’s that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals.
There are many Counteractants products that only mask odours; what you need to do is remove and clean and disinfect the whole area; carpets, upholstery (including the upholstery foam and etc.) that is affected, including the headliner and metal floor pan. Don’t forget to clean/replace the cabin air filter.
Remove the seats and thoroughly clean the carpet with a carpet cleaner and a disinfectant. Then let it air dry, or use a heater to ensure that they are completely dry. To neutralize mould use 10:1 Distiller water / (non-chlorine) bleach solution, use a syringe to inject solution into seating foam, you may need to remove and replace the carpet padding. Steam clean HVAC vents and replace cabin air filter (See also “Allergen and Germ Removal Systems”)
Sunroof / Moon
roof – check for a blocked sunroof drain tubes
(these usually run down the A-pillars, inside the trim, and the tube drain out
the bottom of the vehicle). When they get blocked water can permeate the
interior, hence the musty/mouldy smell. Make sure you don't have water getting
into the interior, and soaking the underlay of the carpet.
Toxic Reactions
Some fungi are known to
produce toxic substances as a by-product of their metabolism, which can cause a
variety of adverse health effects. Short-term symptoms can include dermatitis,
respiratory irritation, headaches and fatigue. Long-term health effects can
include cancer, damage to the central nervous system, and suppression of the
immune system.
In addition, it can cause
headaches, dry eyes, nasal congestion, nausea and fatigue or contribute to the
development of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and hypersensitivity
pneumonitis. People who already have
respiratory diseases are at greater risk.
Hypodermic Injector
Mildew spores will permeate
seating foam and carpet padding; a way
to destroy those lingering odours and fungus that are impossible to reach, this
device will inject any liquid odour counteracting agent or disinfectant deep
into upholstery foam or carpet padding. TOTL
Mould Remover for Leather upholstery
Leather Master
Mold Remover (N-Nubuck
/ Alcantara®) (A-Aniline / Non-Coated) (P-Protected / Coated) - you don't have
to live near the coast to experience mould or mildew fungus spores on your
leather. It can also occur during hot, humid weather in non-coastal areas.
Fungus growth is also a concern for garaged vehicles; you may notice dark or
white blotches where two areas of the leather touch or areas not used. If the
contamination is not removed, the fungus will dissolve the leather, forming
small pits.
Just like mould and mildew contamination in other areas, you cannot wash or shampoo it away. This only exasperates the problem. The fungus is caused by living organisms that must be killed before the leather is cleaned. This product is effective on most forms of bacterial or fungus growth.
Just like mould and mildew contamination in other areas, you cannot wash or shampoo it away. This only exasperates the problem. The fungus is caused by living organisms that must be killed before the leather is cleaned. This product is effective on most forms of bacterial or fungus growth.
If the fungus has caused any
damage to the pigmentation layer of the finished leather you need to take care
of this as a separate issue (See
Automotive Leather Upholstery Repair and Renovation)
.Application
Instructions:
• Pre-test on an inconspicuous
area to insure colour fastness
• Wear latex gloves.
• Clean the surface of the leather with Soft or Strong Cleaner to remove any visible mould excrement.
• Gently rub a very small amount of product on the contamination.
• Allow the product to dry and wipe off with a soft cloth.
• Repeat these steps as necessary.
• After removal of the mould, re-clean the area with Leather Soft Cleaner.
• Allow to dry and apply Leather Protection Cream.
• Wear latex gloves.
• Clean the surface of the leather with Soft or Strong Cleaner to remove any visible mould excrement.
• Gently rub a very small amount of product on the contamination.
• Allow the product to dry and wipe off with a soft cloth.
• Repeat these steps as necessary.
• After removal of the mould, re-clean the area with Leather Soft Cleaner.
• Allow to dry and apply Leather Protection Cream.
Carpets, Mats, Fabric and Vinyl Upholstery
Microban
Mildew & Mold Remover is an environmentally-safe, anti-microbial formula that
destroys mould, mildew, and other bacterial odours on contact. When you cannot
use chlorine, Microban is a very effective solution. The formula is a
water-based, non-flammable bactericide, fungicide, deodorant and
anti-microbial, all in one formulation
Application - do not dilute, use full strength, apply via sprayer to porous surfaces until moist, no not over wet, brush into carpeting, allow to dry 10-20 minutes.
Application - do not dilute, use full strength, apply via sprayer to porous surfaces until moist, no not over wet, brush into carpeting, allow to dry 10-20 minutes.
Due to VOC Regulations Microban cannot
ship to California
Microban® Disinfectant Spray - environmental protection against: germs, odours, mould and mildew-http://www.baneclene.com/catalog/microban.html The first thing to do is to raise as much dirt / dust from the carpet with a brush by using a circular motion over the whole carpeted area; this will loosen the debris and bring it to the top of the carpets pile, enabling a vacuum to remove it
Sporicidin® Mold & Mildew Stain Remover - concentrate is a blend of enzymes in a low foaming solution formulated to loosen and remove dried debris, protein, blood and mucin deposits. It effectively cleans both natural and synthetic fibres that have been soiled with organic and inorganic debris. Ideal for use as a pre-cleaner for mould remediation, and restoration applications
Microban® Disinfectant Spray - environmental protection against: germs, odours, mould and mildew-http://www.baneclene.com/catalog/microban.html The first thing to do is to raise as much dirt / dust from the carpet with a brush by using a circular motion over the whole carpeted area; this will loosen the debris and bring it to the top of the carpets pile, enabling a vacuum to remove it
Sporicidin® Mold & Mildew Stain Remover - concentrate is a blend of enzymes in a low foaming solution formulated to loosen and remove dried debris, protein, blood and mucin deposits. It effectively cleans both natural and synthetic fibres that have been soiled with organic and inorganic debris. Ideal for use as a pre-cleaner for mould remediation, and restoration applications
It is an excellent product for removing
unsightly stains left by microbiological life, such as mould, mildew, moss,
bacteria, and algae stains. MRC-101 series is a biodegradable, environmentally
friendly and water-based stain remover that has been developed for mould
remediation and flood damage restoration projects. MRC-101 is easy to use -
spray it onto the stained area, let penetrate and dry, then remove any
remaining excess by rinsing, brushing or wiping away - it’s that simple!
MRC-101 is suitable for use on commercial and residential stain cleaning and
removal projects and recommended for most construction materials.
Application
Mix thoroughly prior to use to ensure
ingredients are dispersed evenly throughout solution. May be applied with a
brush, roller, bug, Hudson or airless sprayer at a rate of up to 1000 sq. ft. /gallon,
depending upon amount of staining to be removed and the age of the stain.
Multiple applications may be necessary. When applying with airless sprayer, use
medium pressure setting and a .018 spray tip. Apply when surface or air
temperatures are 50ºF (10ºC) or higher. Do not dilute.
Drying Time
Dries to the touch in ~ 30 minutes and
fully dry in 1 hour at normal temperature, cooler temperatures or high humidity
may lengthen drying time.
Sterilization
Follow-up
remediation with a vapour steam cleaner to ensure all mould spores and fungi
are neutralized paying particular attention to HVAC vents and ducting,
upholstery seams and stitching.
Resources
The
following organizations and their publications
or their websites can provide useful additional unbiased and relevant
information
1.
Standard
and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation, published by the
Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) also
contains valuable information
2.
Mold
Remediation in Schools and Commercial Buildings, Investigating, Evaluating, and
Remediating Moisture and Mold Problems (Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
3.
The
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides free brochures to anyone who
asks.
4.
The Center
for Disease Control (CDC) is considered unbiased and reliable sources.
5.
The
National Institute of Safety & Health (NIOSH) is also an excellent source
of unbiased information.
Personal
Protection Equipment
(PPE)
When mould spores are
present in large quantities, they can present a health hazard to humans,
potentially causing allergic reactions and respiratory problems. Some moulds
also produce Mycotoxins, a toxic secondary metabolite produced by organisms of
the fungus that can pose serious health risks to humans and animals.
There are hundreds of
thousands of types of mould, but only about ten types cause health problems,
commonly sinusitis, bronchitis and other respiratory conditions, as well as
allergies. I would strongly recommend you wear appropriate personal protection
equipment
1. Eye Protection: I would strongly advise the wearing of safety glasses,
goggles or a visor when dealing with mould.
2. Hand Protection; with the verity of chemicals a detailer uses on a daily
basis wearing chemical-resistant gloves resist penetration and permeation, and
will provide protection against dermatitis and chemical burns. Gloves can
provide protection, but they must be chosen with care, the proper selection
matched to the hazard is critical. Chemical-resistant gloves resist penetration
and permeation, and cam protect against dermatitis, chemical burns and
corrosion.
3. Respiratory
Protection: When cleaning up a small
area affected by mould, you should use an N-95 respirator. This device covers the nose and mouth, will
filter out 95% of the particulates in the air, and is available in most
hardware stores. In situations where a
full-face respirator is in use, additional eye protection is not required. Mould
can cause respiratory problems and the spores could be harmful to your lungs
4. Disposal: properly dispose of any / all towels/or clothes (including
the cabin air filter) that have been used for mould removal and any other
materials that are contaminated with mould should be placed into impervious
bags or closed containers while in the remediation area. Rinse your gloved
hands with clean water, once you remove the gloves; wash your hands thoroughly
using a disinfectant. Any mould contaminated materials, once in a sealed bags or
container can usually be discarded as regular waste
Professional detailers –
as your you’re dealing with health-related issues, bear in mind that we are
living in a litigious society, so document the process / procedures used on
this type of remediation.
PPE is specialized clothing
or equipment worn by an employee for protection against a hazard. General work
clothes (e.g., uniforms, pants, shirts or blouses) not intended to function as
protection against a hazard is not considered to be personal protective
equipment.
For your safety and the legally required
protection of employees, you will need to have personal protective equipment
available that will include a respirator fitting for you and your employees. At
no time should you endanger yourself or others, take any unnecessary risks or
infringe any laws.
OSHA standards require that employers maintain or
improve workplace conditions to protect employees.
Protection
from Potential Health Hazards
Wear appropriate personal
protective clothing to include: Boots, Chemical resistant gloves, Aprons, No
loose fitting clothing or articles that may be caught in moving parts, Avoid
belts with buckles that may damage painted surfaces, Avoid sharp objects that
may damage leather or fabric upholstery
1.
Warning: Always use a ground circuit fault indicator)
(GFPI) when using any electrical device around water
2.
Eye
Protection: I would strongly advise the wearing of safety glasses or visor
(prescription eyeglasses are not a substitute) when operating any machine
polisher.
OSHA requires employers to ensure the safety of all
employees in the work environment. Eye and face protection must be provided
whenever necessary to protect against chemical, environmental, radiological or
mechanical irritants and hazards.
3.
Hearing
Protection; the constant pitch of a polishing machine could affect your
hearing so wearing ear plugs would be wise to protect you from hearing loss.
4.
Hand
Protection; Gloves- with the
verity of chemicals a detailer uses on a daily basis wearing chemical-resistant
gloves resist penetration and permeation, and will provide protection against
dermatitis and chemical burns. Gloves can provide protection, but they must be
chosen with care, the proper selection matched to the hazard is critical as
they offer a much needed protective barrier when handling cleaning chemicals
such as wheel cleaners and multipurpose cleaners.
Nitrile
gloves are made of synthetic latex. They contain no latex proteins and offer
excellent resistance to punctures and tears. Nitrile gloves are three times
more puncture resistant than rubber and can be used to offer superior
resistance too many types of chemicals.
Chemical-resistant
gloves resist penetration and permeation, and cam protect against dermatitis,
chemical burns and corrosion. Nitrile gloves are three times more puncture
resistant than latex rubber and can be used to offer superior resistance too
many types of chemicals. Unlike other latex gloves, Nitrile gloves have low
resistance to friction and are very easy to slide on –
Clove Chemical Resistance Chart - http://www.adenna.com/pdf/ChemicalsResistance.pdf
5.
Respiratory
Protection (N95): Materials such as aluminium oxide (Aluminium oxide is on
EPA's TRI list if it is a fibrous form) or silicon carbide (Nuisance
particulate-Accumulation in lungs) used in polishes and compounds, and powdered
fillers
6.
Crystalline silica (polishes and compounds) poses a serious
inhalation hazard because it can cause silicosis and Isocyanate clear coat
residue represent a hazard to your lungs and may cause respiratory distress.
Use a NIOSH-approved half face
respirator equipped with a combination filter cartridge should be worn while using
them
7.
Consult the current 3M Respiratory Selection Guide for
additional information or call 1-800-243-4630 for 3M technical assistance.
8.
Material
Safety Data Sheets: Use a ring binder or
other filing system to ensure the appropriate MSDS is always available to
identify hazardous substances
9.
Work
Hygienic Practices: Rinse cloves under running water before removing them
10.
Chemical clean-up: small spillage: absorb spill with an
inert absorbent material (e.g. dry sand or kitty litter), then place in a
chemical waste container. If liquid has been spilt in large quantities clean up
promptly by scoop or vacuum.
11. Protect yourself, work
safe. As in all things, allow common sense to prevail and proceed with due
caution
Health and Safety Executive
(HSE) Control of substances hazardous to health (COSHH) is the UK law that
requires employers to control substances that are hazardous to health - http://www.hse.gov.uk/coshh/basics.htm
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© 2002-2011, TOGWT® (Established 1980) all rights reserved
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