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Reducing Exposure to Biological
Contaminants
Install and use exhaust fans that
are vented to the outdoors in
kitchens and bathrooms and vent
clothes dryers outdoors.
These actions can eliminate much of
the moisture that builds up from
everyday activities. There are
exhaust fans on the market that
produce little noise, an important
consideration for some people.
Another benefit to using kitchen and
bathroom exhaust fans is that they
can reduce levels of organic
pollutants that vaporize from hot
water used in showers and
dishwashers.
Ventilate the attic and crawl spaces
to prevent moisture build-up.
Keeping humidity levels in these
areas below 50 percent can prevent
water condensation on building
materials.
If using cool mist or ultrasonic
humidifiers, clean appliances
according to manufacturer's
instructions and refill with fresh
water daily.
Because these humidifiers can become
breeding grounds for biological
contaminants, they have the
potential for causing diseases such
as hypersensitivity pneumonitis and
humidifier fever. Evaporation trays
in air conditioners, dehumidifiers,
and refrigerators should also be
cleaned frequently.
Thoroughly clean and dry
water-damaged carpets and building
materials (within 24 hours if
possible) or consider removal and
replacement.
Water-damaged carpets and building
materials can harbor mold and
bacteria. It is very difficult to
completely rid such materials of
biological contaminants.
Keep the house clean. House dust
mites, pollens, animal dander, and
other allergy-causing agents can be
reduced, although not eliminated,
through regular cleaning.
People who are allergic to these
pollutants should use allergen-proof
mattress encasements, wash bedding
in hot (130° F) water, and avoid
room furnishings that accumulate
dust, especially if they cannot be
washed in hot water. Allergic
individuals should also leave the
house while it is being vacuumed
because vacuuming can actually
increase airborne levels of mite
allergens and other biological
contaminants. Using central vacuum
systems that are vented to the
outdoors or vacuums with high
efficiency filters may also be of
help.
Take steps to minimize biological
pollutants in basements.
Clean and disinfect the basement
floor drain regularly. Do not finish
a basement below ground level unless
all water leaks are patched and
outdoor ventilation and adequate
heat to prevent condensation are
provided. Operate a dehumidifier in
the basement if needed to keep
relative humidity levels between 30
- 50 percent.
Content Courtesy : www.epa.gov
Note : Information herein is
provided for informational purposes
only and is not a substitute for
professional medical advice. You
should not use this information for
diagnosing or treating a medical or
health condition. If you have or
suspect you have a medical problem,
promptly contact your professional
healthcare provider. Please consult
your healthcare provider before
beginning any course of
supplementation or treatment.
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