Aspergillus is a micro-organism that can be found during demolition and construction works and is a health risk to humans. Aspergillus is a fungus that can cause significant health problems when breathed in during certain construction work.
It is typically 2 – 3.5 μm in size, small enough to enter the airways.
Aspergillus is a mould commonly found in many indoor environments such as old & dilapidated building. Construction/demolition activities on sites such as these can release the fungal spores into the air increasing the exposure. It is possible that Aspergillus can also be found outdoors in damp and garden environments.
It is critical on construction and demolition projects that we control the risks and exposure to workers on site while they work. There are prevent measures which can be carried out to control the exposure to Aspegillus.
First, carry out risk assessments and controls to ensure workers & visitors are protected and a plan is in place.
Secondly, we must ensure the particle doesn’t become airborne by using dust control along with real-time dust monitors to monitor the levels of air particles and sizes throughout the project.
Thirdly, install proper ventilation systems which are maintained, and contamination free.
Workers with damaged lungs or a weakened immune system can get several diseases (called Aspergillosis or farmer's lung) if they inhale these spores. The symptoms of ASPGILLOSIS are a cough, shortness of breath and wheezing. More symptoms can be found on the NHS website.
Dust particles of 2 – 10 μm can be measured using dust detection analysers. Campbell Associates offer several solutions for this.
Such as our Aeroqual Ranger using a PMX dust monitor module which will measure TSP, PM10, PM4, PM2.5 & PM1. This handheld device allows the operator to walk around the site and establish the level of dust particles in each cubic metre of air as the unit μg/m3.
If continuous monitoring should be carried out then we would deploy our MCERTS Certified (by the Environment Agency) PM10 & PM2.5 dust monitor.
The DustSens DM30 monitor provides real-time data alerts and mean average readings into a cloud platform. SMS & Email alerts are setup when exceedances have been hit, alerting workers on site to take action.
What can I do to stop mould growth in the first place?
The EniSens DL40 is a low power, automated data logger for measuring temperature and relative humidity.
Mold thrives in humid, warm environments, typically when relative humidity is over 60% and temperatures are between 20-30°C (68-86°F). By using a logger, you can monitor the conditions and take steps to keep the humidity and temperature within ranges less favourable for mold.
Using a logger enables us to monitor patterns and detect spikes in humidity and temperature, especially in mold-prone areas. By setting threshold limits, such as 60% relative humidity, we can send email or SMS alerts to workers or environmental managers when levels exceed safe limits.
This allows site supervisors to take corrective actions, like increasing dehumidification or improving ventilation, to prevent mold growth. When water suppression is used to control dust levels, it may raise relative humidity and lead to damp areas where mold could develop later.
