Overview

Mould is a common name for filamentous fungi from different taxonomic groups (ascomycetes, zygomycetes) and their anamorphic states formerly known as deuteromycetes or fungi imperfecti. They form a mycelium (hyphae) and spores by which they become visible macroscopically. Most spores are in the size range of 2 µm to 10 µm; some up to 30 µm, and only few up to 100 µm. Spores of some mould genera are small and become airborne very easily (such as Aspergillus, Penicillium) while others are bigger and/or embedded in a slime matrix (such as Stachybotrys, Fusarium) and less mobile. Mould spores are widely distributed in the outdoor environment and, therefore, occur in varying concentrations also indoors. Growth of moulds in indoor environments, however, should be considered as a hygienic problem because epidemiological studies have revealed that dampness and/or mould growth in homes and health problems affecting the occupants are closely related. Harmonized methods for sampling, detection, and enumeration of moulds including standards for sampling strategies are important for comparative assessment of mould problems indoors. Before doing any measurements, a plan for the measurement strategy should be made. This part of ISO 16000 describes methods for sampling of moulds from building materials. Mould-infested materials are examined either by surface sampling or bulk sampling that is examination of the complete material or defined deeper material layers. The methods used depend on the investigation objective. Surfaces are sampled using the contact plate, tape-lift, or swab method. After sampling, the mould spores can be analysed by direct microscopy or processed and cultured using the suspension method. The cultivation procedure is described in ISO 16000-17. The document is directed at representatives of supervisory authorities, testing laboratories, professional associations, architect's offices, planning offices as well as representatives of interior designers, the furniture industry, construction industry, paint industry, adhesives industry or other branches producing items for the interior. The International Standard has been prepared by ISO/TC 146/SC 6 "Indoor air" at Working Group 10 "Fungi", the chairmanships and secretariats of which are held by DIN, respectively. The responsible German body involved in the preparation was NA 134-03-07-04-01 AK "Bioaerosole und biologische Agenzien" ("Bioaerosols and biological agents").

Document: references other documents

Responsible national committee

NA 134-04-04-05 UA - Assessment of microorganisms