Mould is more than just an eyesore—in commercial buildings, it can be a serious health hazard and a costly liability. Whether it’s a musty smell in the office or visible mould on drywall, early detection and proper management are key to maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.
As a consultancy specializing in industrial hygiene and hazardous materials, we regularly help businesses across Canada assess, test, and manage mould issues in commercial settings. Here’s what you need to know about the risks and responsibilities involved.
Why Mould Is a Problem in Commercial Buildings
Mould thrives in moist, poorly ventilated areas — basements, HVAC systems, ceiling tiles, behind walls and inside wall cavities. In commercial buildings, leaks, flooding, and humidity issues often go unnoticed until mould becomes visible or starts affecting indoor air quality.
The presence of mould can:
- Trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks
- Cause headaches, fatigue, and respiratory irritation
- Leads to absenteeism and productivity losses
- Increase liability and insurance costs
- Compromise structural materials over time
Health Risks of Indoor Mould Exposure
Prolonged mould exposure can pose significant health risks, especially for individuals with:
- Asthma or other respiratory conditions
- Allergies or sensitivities
- Compromised immune systems
Common symptoms include:
- Coughing and sneezing
- Eye, nose, and throat irritation
- Skin rashes
- Worsening of pre-existing conditions
For employers, protecting workers from indoor air contaminants, including mould, is their responsibility under Canadian Occupational Health and Safety legislation.
When to Suspect Mould in Your Building
Signs that mould may be present include:
- Musty or earthy odours
- Water stains or discolouration on walls or ceilings
- Peeling paint or warped drywall
- High humidity or condensation issues
- Occupant complaints of allergy-like symptoms
If you notice any of these, it’s time to take action.
Mould Testing and Assessment
Professional testing is the only way to confirm and understand the extent of a mould problem. As industrial hygiene consultants, we provide:
- Visual inspections of affected areas
- Moisture mapping using thermal imaging
- Air and surface sampling for mould spores
- Lab analysis to identify mould types and concentrations
- Reporting and recommendations for next steps
Testing helps determine whether mould levels exceed acceptable thresholds and can help identify the source of moisture fueling the fungal growth.
Mould Remediation Strategies
Effective mould remediation depends on the extent of contamination. Our recommendations often include:
- Source control: Fixing leaks, improving ventilation, and addressing humidity issues
- Containment: Sealing off affected areas to prevent spore spread
- Safe removal: Using proper PPE and HEPA-filtered equipment
- Disposal: Following provincial regulations for waste handling
- Post-remediation verification: Ensuring mould levels are reduced to safe limits
We also work with qualified remediation contractors to ensure the cleanup is compliant, thorough, and minimizes risk to building occupants.
Staying Compliant and Proactive
Preventing mould growth is always better than dealing with remediation. A proactive mould management plan includes:
- Regular HVAC and plumbing maintenance
- Prompt leak repair
- Indoor air quality monitoring
- Employee awareness and reporting protocols
Employers and property managers must provide a safe indoor environment. Working with a qualified industrial hygiene consultant ensures compliance with Canadian OHS regulations and helps protect your business, your staff, and the public.
Reach out to our Team Today!
How Can We Help You?
Contact us at JADA Solutions (HSE) Inc. to speak with one of our professionals!
