Author: Jason Stewart

hvac mould s chartarum

Microbe of the Month: Stachybotrys chartarum

Microbe of the Month: Stachybotrys chartarumClassification Type: FungiCultured from / Found in HVAC: Coiling Coils, Diffusers, Grilles, Filters, Drain Pans, HumidifiersNoted Health Risks: Nasal Irritation, Burning and Congestion, Cough, Wheezing, Chest Tightness and DyspneaAbout Stachybotrys chartarumTwo black moulds commonly found in buildings are Cladosporium and Alternaria fungi. Another black mould is Stachybotrys chartarum, which can release specific toxins […]

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Microbe of the Month: Alternaria

Microbe of the Month: AlternariaClassification Type: FungiCultured from / Found in HVAC: Coiling Coils, Diffusers, Grilles, Filters, Drain Pans, HumidifiersNoted Health Risks:Pulmonary Diseases, Asthma, Allergies About AlternariaThere are over 250 known species of Alternaria. Alternaria is a genus of Deuteromycetes fungi. Alternaria species are known as major plant pathogens. They are also common allergens in humans, growing indoors […]

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Safeguarding the Immunocompromised through Indoor Air Quality

The quality of indoor air influences immune responses. Components like mould spores, pollutants, allergens, and irritants in the air can affect immune cell function, which can lead to respiratory issues, allergies, and other health issues.Those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk from poor indoor air quality, as well as people over 65 years […]

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Top 4 Expert Strategies for Indoor Air Quality in Aged Care

It’s our duty and responsibility to give every Australian the care they need in their later years. As we saw half of Coronavirus-related deaths in Queensland within Aged Care ¹ we must ensure we are taking all possible measures to protect older Australians on a daily basis. Here’s our top strategies to provide safe indoor […]

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Animals vs. HVAC ~ Startling Discoveries and Health Risks

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) systems are a significant part of modern buildings, providing temperature control and air circulation for human comfort. These systems can sometimes create unexpected situations, especially when animals inhabit these spaces.One interesting example is the case of bats. When bats encounter buildings with HVAC systems, their echolocation abilities can be […]

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ASHRAE Completes Infectious Aerosols Standard 241-2023

ASHRAE has approved for publication its airborne infection risk mitigation standard, described as a major step forward in reducing the risk of infectious disease spread in buildings.ASHRAE Standard 241, Control of Infectious Aerosols establishes minimum requirements to reduce the risk of disease transmission by exposure to infectious aerosols in new buildings, existing buildings, and major […]

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Microbe of the Month: Staphylococcus

Classification Type: BacteriaCultured from / Found in HVAC: Coiling Coils, Diffusers, Grilles, Filters, Drain Pans, HumidifiersNoted Health Risks: Bloodstream Infections, Pneumonia, Bone and Joint Infections.Staphylococcus aureus is a round-shaped bacterium, a usual member of the microbiota of the body, frequently found in the upper respiratory tract and on the skin. Infections caused by this pathogen […]

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Microbe of the Month: Pseudomonas

Classification Type: BacteriaCultured from / Found in HVAC: Coiling Coils, Diffusers, Grilles, Filters, Drain Pans, HumidifiersNoted Health Risks:Respiratory Infections, UTIs, Tissue Infections, Sepsis About PseudomonasThe bacteria are found widely in the environment, such as in soil, water, and plants. Pseudomonas infections are diseases caused by a bacterium from the genus Pseudomonas. More severe infections occur in people who […]

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Facilities Managers to Include Indoor Air Quality in FY 2023-24 Budgets

As the importance of Indoor Air Quality gains recognition, Facilities Managers should consider prioritising IAQ services in their future financial budgets. The Australian Federal Budget provisions for IAQ assessments and energy efficiency grants which presents opportunities for Facilities Managers to enhance IAQ while aligning with national initiatives.   The Importance of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) […]

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Microbe of the Month: Candida

Microbe of the Month: CandidaClassification Type: FungiCultured from / Found in HVAC: Coiling Coils, Diffusers, Grilles, Filters, Drain Pans, HumidifiersNoted Health Risks:Mucosal Infections, Skin infections, Bloodstream Infections, Urinary Tract Infections About the Candida FungiA new species of the Genus, Candida auris is a multidrug-resistant fungus that has been identified as a public health threat due to […]

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