Monthly Archives: February 2020

Asbestos, Mold, and Fumes Create A Hazardous Work Environment for Fire Fighters

Posted on by
Asbestos, Mold, and Fumes Create A Hazardous Work Environment for Fire Fighters

Asbestos, Mold, and Fumes Create A Hazardous Work Environment for Fire Fighters

Firefighters put their lives on the line to protect the public in dangerous situations. But how do firefighters deal with mold and other hazardous conditions in their own stations? Here’s a look at the importance of NYC mold removal in the workplace.

When a Fire Station Is “Sick”

Gary Michael Horsley Jr. is a firefighter in Birmingham, AL. In December 2019, Horsley filed a federal complaint stating that asbestos, mold and toxic fumes in the city’s Fire Station 27 created a health risk for firefighters and visitors.

Built in 1956, the station underwent an assessment by an environmental services company in June 2019. At the time, Fire Station 27 was temporarily closed and firefighters were relocated.

While asbestos was found in some of the building materials, testing indicated the indoor air quality “was not significantly affected” by its presence. Based on the final report, crews replaced damaged floor and ceiling tiles in the station and the city announced plans to schedule future cleanings.

Did the City Do Enough?

Despite the city’s actions, Horsley’s lawsuit says concerns haven’t been adequately addressed and Fire Station 27 remains “a hazard to the health” of firefighters and visitors. The building was declared safe late last year, but so far Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin hasn’t officially responded to the complaint.

Residential and Commercial NYC Mold Removal from Stern Mold

Our MoldExterm program provides safe and effective NYC mold removal in homes and commercial buildings. Contact us to schedule a free mold inspection.

Posted in Mold Information, Mold Treatment, News

New York City Housing Authority To Spend $50 Million In The Fight Against Mold

Posted on by
New York City Housing Authority To Spend $50 Million In The Fight Against Mold

New York City Housing Authority To Spend $50 Million In The Fight Against Mold

How much is good health worth? The New York City Housing Authority is spending $50 million on a Manhattan mold removal project to correct a problem that has long plagued city-run apartment complexes.

Cleaning “Sick” Buildings

NYCHA residents have struggled with mold-related issues for at least 10 years. Lack of maintenance of air vents in the apartment buildings has been a significant cause. Incredibly, over a 60-year period, most of the vents have gone without cleaning except for occasional complaint-driven occurrences.

In 2013, after a community group sued the city on behalf of asthma sufferers living in the apartment buildings, a federal judge was appointed to oversee mold cleanup efforts. The current project includes scrubbing ventilation ducts and replacing faulty belt-driven roof fans with belt-free direct-drive fans.

What’s Next?

Keeping ventilation systems clean is only one step in controlling mold growth. Dampness from flooding and leaky pipes creates ideal conditions for mold spores to multiply. Unfortunately, this type of damage often happens in out-of-the-way areas where mold can grow unseen.

Repairing water damage is also on the horizon for the cleanup initiative. The NYCHA has earmarked $156 million in their budget for pipe work over the next five years.

Stern Mold: Your First Choice for Effective Manhattan Mold Removal

When it comes to Manhattan mold removal, out of sight doesn’t mean out of mind. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is free of mold infestations. Contact us for a free mold inspection by our professionally trained technicians.

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Information, MoldExterm, News

When The Place That’s Supposed To Make You Better Makes You Sicker – What To Know About Hospital Mold Infestations

Posted on by
When The Place That's Supposed To Make You Better Makes You Sicker - What To Know About Hospital Mold Infestations

When The Place That’s Supposed To Make You Better Makes You Sicker – What To Know About Hospital Mold Infestations

Where do you turn when the healthcare system causes you to become even sicker? A recent story out of Seattle illustrates why NYC mold removal is so important for medical facilities.

History of Mold-Related Illnesses

In November 2019, Seattle Children’s Hospital temporarily closed most of its operating rooms to install a new rooftop air handler and in-room HEPA filters. Sadly, this move came only after 14 patients developed aspergillosis over an 18-year period. Six cases resulted in fatalities.

Aspergillus is a common species of mold and one of the forms referred to as “toxic.” While most people experience no problems inhaling Aspergillus spores, those with preexisting lung conditions or compromised immune systems are at risk for developing infections known as aspergillosis.

One Patient’s Experience

Complaints from hospital employees about poor maintenance of the ventilation system came to light in a 2005 lawsuit involving a 12-year-old patient who became ill after successful brain surgery. Testing revealed that her spinal column was filled with Aspergillus mold, which necessitated a five-year course of antifungal medication.

Despite treatment and a long-term stay in rehabilitation, the patient was left with permanent disability. Testimony in the lawsuit included sworn statements from members of the hospital’s building and engineering department describing the mold- and debris-filled condition of the ventilation system.

Protect Your Health with Effective NYC Mold Removal

Mold has no respect for hospitals, restaurants or family homes. Contact Stern Mold to schedule a free inspection by our cheerful and experienced NYC mold removal technicians.

Posted in Mold & Your Health, Mold Information, MoldExterm, News
Recent Entries »