WHO GUIDELINES FOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY WHO GUIDELINES FOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY: WHO GUIDELINES FOR INDOOR AIR QUALITY: When sufficient moisture is available, hundreds of species of bacteria and fungi – particularly mould – pollute indoor air. The most important effects of exposure to these pollutants are the increased prevalence of respiratory symptoms, allergies and asthma, as well as disturbance of the immune system. Prevent- ing (or minimizing) persistent dampness and microbial growth on interior surfaces and building structures is the most important means of avoiding harmful effects on health. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific evidence on the health problems associated with this ubiquitous DAMPNESS AND MOULD DAMPNESS DAMPNESS pollution and provides WHO guidelines to protect public health. It also describes the conditions that determine the presence of AND MOULD mould and provides measures to control its growth indoors. World Health Organization Regional Offi ce for Europe Scherfi gsvej 8, DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark Tel.: +45 39 17 17 17. Fax: +45 39 17 18 18 E-mail:
[email protected] Web site: www.euro.who.int WHO guidelines for indoor air quality : dampness and mould Keywords AIR POLLUTION, INDOOR - adverse effects - prevention and control FUNGI HUMIDITY - adverse effects - prevention and control ENVIRONMENTAL EXPOSURE RISK ASSESSMENT GUIDELINES ISBN 978 92 890 4168 3 Address requests for publications of the WHO Regional Office for Europe to: Publications WHO Regional Office for Europe Scherfigsvej 8 DK-2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark Alternatively, complete an online request form for documentation, health information, or for permission to quote or translate, on the Regional Office web site (http://www.euro.who.int/pubrequest).