Buildings that are poorly ventilated or damp are perfect environments for mould to thrive. This can pose a number of health risks to building inhabitants. This makes it imperative for administrators to measure humidity, temperature and other elements that may lead to fungi propagation.
Taking advantage of technology
Hygrometers are a means for professionals to account for these factors. While these devices are useful, there are portable alternatives that are equally as capable. Testo’s new line of smart probes, such as the Testo 605i, enable users to:
- Check ambient air temperature and relative humidity
- Calculate relative humidity and heat levels throughout ductwork
- Measure enthalpy at air handlers
- Check air conditioner dehumidification settings
One of the many features of the Testo 605i is that HVAC technicians and other contractors are able to easily connect their smartphones to it via Bluetooth. Once they’ve done this, all the data that the smart probe records is sent to the Smart Probes App. This information is then stored, and ready for later analysis.
Being able to gather humidity, temperature and airflow information goes a long way in detecting the possibility of mould growth and improving a facility's health and safety standards. In order to interpret this data, it's important that technicians and building managers know how mould grows.
An overview of mould
According to the Better health Channel (BHC), mould is a type of fungi that reproduces by creating spores. It usually grows in damp regions located indoors. It’s appearance can often trick passersby into thinking that it is a stain or smudge of some kind. It can take the form of many different colours, from black, to brown, to orange, or many other pigments.
But what are its effects on the human body? People that are residing or working in damp buildings may experience nasal congestion, wheezing, respiratory infections or sneezing. These symptoms can be particularly exacerbated for people with asthma or allergies.
While the BHC notes that it is very difficult, if not impossible, to prevent mould from developing completely, there are ways to inhibit it from growing. By using indoor climate meters and other instruments to calculate humidity, temperature and other factors, operators are taking the first step in identifying whether a building is suffering from a fungi problem.
In addition to this, it assists in assessing potential problem areas. The BHC identified such regions as cupboards and corners that may not receive proper ventilation as well as walls and windows that are exposed to high indoor and outdoor temperatures.
If you would like to know more about what instruments that can help you detect mould, get in contact with the team at Testo New Zealand today!