Mold Exposure & Health Risks: Protecting Workers & Yourself

Working around mold can cause serious short- and long-term effects on your health. From respiratory illnesses to cancer, mold exposure is a dangerous situation. If you work around mold, take measures to avoid prolonged exposure or cover your mouth and nose while you work to limit ingestion and inhalation.

Respiratory Illness

• Mold exposure can cause allergic reactions, including sneezing and congestion. It can also cause asthma symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath.

Irritation

• Mold can cause irritation in your eyes, nose and throat. These symptoms might include pain, swelling, redness and itching.

Infection

• People with weak immune systems are at a greater risk of developing infections as a result of mold exposure. These infections generally affect the skin or lungs.

Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis

• Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a rare condition resembling pneumonia. It can be the result of short- or long-term exposure to mold.

Carcinogens

• Exposure to mold toxins can lead to cancer, specifically liver cancer. This is a result of ingesting the toxins from the molds.