How to Prevent the Growth of Stachybotrys Fungus

Sick building syndrome and other conditions related to occupied structures are frequently attributed to the existence of Stachybotrys fungus, which is not considered a deadly toxin, but which can create adverse symptoms. Those who have been exposed to Stachybotrys fungus on a regular basis report symptoms like headache, nausea, sore throat, diarrhea, fatigue and muscle cramps. It is also widely thought that those who live or work around Stachybotrys can be immunosuppressed.

The prevalence of Stachybotrys fungus in office buildings, apartment buildings and other large structures makes it a serious issue for building managers, who must be willing to test the premises for potential mold growth. In general, Stachybotrys grows in areas where water damage has occurred to wood, vinyl tiles, cardboard boxes and even stacks of wet or damp newspapers. It can also be found where water tends to accumulate, such as near drain spouts.

Although Stachybotrys fungus can be identified by sight, characterized by a gray or green coloring with smooth margins and rippled surfaces, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that building managers have a hygienist examine spores under a microscope for positive identification. This is to ensure that you know exactly what the building's occupants have been exposed to, which can save lives and reduce the potential for another outbreak.

If Stachybotrys fungus is detected in a structure, the building manager should make sure that the entire building is cleaned thoroughly in accordance with CDC guidelines. This may require an evacuation of the cleanup will take several days or weeks, but for most buildings, this can be done in a day or two with several workers. Surfaces should be scrubbed in a bleach-water solution, and the entire building should be well-ventilated to ensure drying of surfaces.