A safe workplace is mandated by law in Canada under various legislative frameworks. These include Section 12 of the Hazardous Products Act, the Canada Labour Code, the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act, provincial occupational health and safety acts, and related regulations. It is essential to have in place an operating procedure that will protect the health and safety of occupants, as well as the workers performing their duties in the investigation of possible fungal contamination in public buildings. (Fungal Contamination in Public Buildings: Health Effects and Investigation Methods)

Mould has the potential to cause health problems and even make a home uninhabitable. However, everyone is affected differently when in contact with mould. For example the mould that may not bother the seller may severely affect the buyer. Some mould can produce allergens, irritants and, in some cases, potentially toxic chemical substances known as mycotoxins. People who are sensitive and exposed to mycotoxins can become ill.

Allergic reactions to mould are common. They can be immediate or delayed. People diagnosed with allergies and asthma may be very sensitive to mould. mould can cause asthma attacks. Others at risk might include: infants, children, the elderly, patients who have a deficient immune system, pregnant women and individuals with existing respiratory conditions.

With exposure, even in small amounts, mould may cause:

• Itching or irritation of the nose, eyes, throat or skin  
• Mysterious skin rashes  
• Sinus infections, congestion and/or sinusitis (runny nose)  
• Respiratory problems (sneezing and coughing)  
• Fatigue   
• Frequent headaches  
• Trouble concentrating, memory lapses and/or confusion  
• Mood swings, anxiety and/or depression  
• Chronic aches and pains  
• Digestive problems  

HEALTH CANADA recommends that all mould, regardless of the species, be cleaned and that the underlying water or humidity problem be dealt with quickly to prevent potential health issues. 

The CANADIAN CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION'S Mould Guidelines For The Construction Industry (CCA - 82) states that, 

“For federal/provincial regulators, mould is a significant occupational health and safety issue, as well as a public health issue. Most jurisdictions have issued alerts or bulletins concerning the hazards of mould growth in indoor environments. Employers are required to take all reasonable measures to protect the health and safety of their workers, which includes a duty to protect against exposure to potentially harmful substances such as mould. These measures require the immediate and safe removal of any mould growth in buildings, while ensuring the protection of workers, building occupants, and the surrounding environment. Although the health risks of mould exposure are not fully known, scientific and health authorities agree that exposure should be avoided.  

Employers must be duly diligent and ensure that their policies and procedures demonstrate full commitment to worker safety. Due diligence is also required to protect the construction industry from the consequences of civil claims relating to mould damage and the potential health risks of mould exposure.” 

Finally and as written in an ONTARIO MINISTRY OF LABOUR, Health and Safety, Publication the Ontario Ministry of Labour states that: 

“Employers are required by section 25(2)(h) of the Occupational Health and Safety Act to take every precaution reasonable in the circumstances for the protection of workers. 

The Occupational Health and Safety Act places a responsibility on constructors (section 23), employers (section 25), and supervisors (section 27) to ensure the health and safety of workers. This includes protecting workers from mould in workplace buildings. Various sections of the Industrial, Construction, Mining or Health Care regulations may also apply to maintenance and remediation activities.”