Overview
This document outlines ASHRAE’s position on preventing indoor mold and dampness in buildings, emphasizing health, safety, and building performance. It includes links to supporting references and additional resources related to the management of mold and moisture. ASHRAE advocates for controlling indoor dampness and mold to protect occupant health, support building integrity, and guide policy and design practices.
Health and Building Impacts
Persistent indoor dampness is linked to adverse health effects, including respiratory issues, asthma exacerbation, infections, and allergies. Indicators such as moldy odors, visible mold, water damage, moisture, and past flooding signal health-relevant dampness. Dampness that becomes habitual increases health and structural risks, making it neither normal nor desirable. Building professionals, owners, occupants, and policymakers should prioritize keeping indoor environments dry.
Recommendations
ASHRAE recommends:
- Adopting ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022 for humidity control during occupancy and unoccupied periods to prevent dampness.
- Keeping humidity below a maximum dew-point temperature of 60°F (15°C) during unoccupied hours
- Reviewing the early warning signs and detailed risk reduction measures described in ASHRAE’s Damp Buildings, Human Health and HVAC Design.