Glossary of Mold Terms

Sick Building Syndrome
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a combination of ailments associated with either a person’s place of employment or home. There are many possible causes including mold. Common symptoms include irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, skin irritation, and other health related problems.

Spore
A spore is a reproductive structure that is adapted for dispersal and survival for long periods of time in unfavorable conditions. Once conditions become favorable, a spore can develop into a new organism. Mold reproduces by means of spores which are easily carried by air currents.

Stachybotrys Mold
There are more than twenty species of Stachybotrys Mold. The species known as Stachybotrys Chartarum is the most dangerous to animals and humans because the mycotoxins produced can result in one or more of the following depending upon the length of exposure and volume of spores ingested or inhaled: chronic coughing; chronic fatigue; fever; headaches; irritation to the eyes; nose and throat; rashes; sneezing; nausea; vomiting and even bleeding in the lungs and nose.

Thermographic Camera
This is an infrared thermal camera used to locate areas of excessive moisture inside walls and ceilings. They generally cover larger areas than moisture meters.

Toxic
Causing damage or death to plants, animals, and / or humans. A substance that is poisonous.

Toxicity
Refers to the degree to which a chemical, including those produced by molds, can harm humans and animals.

Toxicology
Toxicology is the branch of medicine involved in the study of the adverse effects of chemicals, including those produced by mold, on humans and animals.

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