| Mold has been found in many cold rooms. Every surface in a cold room can become contaminated with mold quickly should an improper work practice occur. The result is potential health problems from inhalation of the mold spores as well as contamination of research materials .The storage of cellulose containing materials is a leading cause of mold growth. Mold growth can contribute to contamination of research materials. Preventing mold growth in cold rooms is achieved by controlling condensation / moisture and removing materials contributing to mold growth. The following actions need to be followed:• Promptly clean up spilled liquids (e.g., buffers, media). Mold can thrive on any organic medium.• Report water leaks to Facilities. • Keep door firmly shut to prevent condensation. Doors left open can increase the relative humidity in the rooms and promote mold growth. Placing a relative humidity (RH) gauge in the cold room and maintaining the RH at less than 60% helps to discourage mold growth. • Damaged door gaskets can provide a cold surface resulting in condensation problems. Watch for condensation on other surfaces as well. Condensation may be an indication of a loss of containment. Contact Facilities for an evaluation of the problem. • Remove all wood. Wood shelves can absorb moisture and, because it is composed of cellulose, is a perfect breeding ground for mold. Wood shelves need to be replaced with open stainless steel shelves that permit air flow throughout the storage area. • Remove all cardboard and paper products. These surfaces act just like wood and promote mold growth. If some paper products (e.g., Kimwipes) are required, place them in a closed plastic container between uses. Should visible mold be found on a paper product, discard the item immediately. • Keep surfaces clean. Never use bleach on metal surfaces (bleach on metal surfaces can result in pitting). Wet cleanup activities are recommended (sweeping, dusting, or brushing will release mold into the air and can cause inhalation exposures and spread potential contamination).
• Place a label on the cold room door to remind users not to store paper/wood materials in the cold room as well as clean up small spills of materials soon after they happen. • Users will be held responsible for cleaning mold growth if EH&S inspections note improper actions that could contribute to mold growth. December 2016 |
