Passfield Park School...— ASHRAE Standard 55, 2013, ‘Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human...

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

PASSFIELD PARK SCHOOL

INDOOR AIR QUALITY (MOULD) INVESTIGATION

AUGUST 2019

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5563_MOULD_030819_Mould_Investigation.docx August

2019

Passfield Park School

Indoor Air Quality (Mould) Investigation

Department of Education

WSP

Level 27, 680 George Street

Sydney NSW 2000

GPO Box 5394

Sydney NSW 2001

Tel: +61 2 9272 5100

Fax: +61 2 9272 5101

wsp.com

REV DATE DETAILS

A August 2019 First Issue

NAME DATE SIGNATURE

Prepared by: David Blackburn 13/08/2019

Reviewed by: Haysam Elhassan (COH) 14/08/2019

Approved by: Kieran White 14/08/2019

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................. III

1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................... 1

2 METHODOLOGY .................................................................. 2

2.1 Temperature, relative humidity & CO2, .................................... 2

2.2 Air sampling for microorganisms (AOC) ................................ 2

2.3 Building material moisture content ......................................... 2

3 EVALUATION CRITERIA .................................................... 3

3.1 Indoor air quality guidelines .................................................... 3

3.2 Carbon dioxide .......................................................................... 3

3.3 Temperature and relative humidity .......................................... 4

3.4 Building material moisture levels ............................................ 4

3.5 Airborne microbial concentration levels ................................. 4

3.6 Summary assessment criteria ................................................. 5

3.7 Mould remediation classifications ........................................... 6

4 RESULTS ............................................................................... 7

4.1 Visual Assessment .................................................................... 7

4.2 Indoor air quality and building material moisture

levels ......................................................................................... 13

4.3 Airborne microbial organism concentration levels ............. 16

5 DISCUSSION ....................................................................... 18

5.1 Indoor air quality ..................................................................... 18

5.2 Building material moisture levels .......................................... 18

5.3 Airborne microbial organism concentration levels ............. 18

TABLE OF CONTENTS

6 RECOMMENDATIONS ...................................................... 20

7 REFERENCES .................................................................... 21

PHOTOGRAPHS .........................................................................A-23

DEFINITIONS ................................................................................. B-1

LIST OF TABLES

Table 3.1 Guidelines – Temperature and relative humidity ........................... 4

Table 3.2 Extech Moisture Range ................................................................. 4

Table 3.3 Airborne mould guideline values for airborne non-viable

mould spores and hyphae ............................................................. 5

Table 3.4 Summary of Assessment Criteria – All Parameters ....................... 6

Table 4.1 Results of Air Quality and Building Material Moisture

Content (Passfield Park School – 03/08/2019) .............................13

Table 4.2 Viable and non-viable airborne fungal genera mixture

(Passfield Park School – 03/08/2019) ..........................................16

LIST OF APPENDICES

Appendix A Photographs

Appendix B Definitions

Appendix C Labortory Reports

Project No PS114654 Passfield Park School Indoor Air Quality (Mould) Investigation Department of Education

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY WSP Australia Pty Limited (WSP) was engaged by Department of Education (the Client) to undertake testing for potential microbial/mould contamination within rooms BR0003, BR0004, BR0005, BR0007, BR0012, BR0016, BR0017, BR0018, BR0022, BR0023, BR0029, BR1004, BR1005, BR1007, BR1008, BR1012, BR1014, BR1016, BR1021, BR1026, BR1027 and CR0004, CR0005 and CR0009 of Passfield Park School, located at 53 Guernsey Avenue, Minto NSW 2566.

This assessment was conducted on Saturday 3rd August 2019.

In accordance with the agreed scope of works, the purpose of our assessment was to undertake microbial air quality monitoring at locations where students and staff frequent. Our scope of work included the following:

— Visual inspection of rooms for evidence of mould growth.

— Sampling of total airborne yeast and fungi.

— Testing air quality and thermal comfort parameters relevant to mould infestation, including the following:

Carbon dioxide;

Relative humidity;

Temperature; and

Testing the building material moisture levels for evidence of water ingress.

This report documents the findings of the assessment including sampling methodologies, site observations, evaluation criteria, findings, discussion and recommendations.

The airborne microbial concentrations detected within the nominated rooms of Block B and Block C were within the adopted Worldwide Exposure Standards for Mold & Bacteria (2010) criteria. Airborne microbial concentrations within rooms BR0003 and CR0005 were deemed to be normal despite being greater than the outside air reference samples as the measured concentrations were below the referenced Worldwide Exposure Standards for Mold and Bacteria (2010) guideline values.

Based on the observations made and the readings obtained, all assessed spaces are deemed as Condition 1 in accordance with IICRC S520 – 2015 guidelines. i.e. an indoor environment that may have settled spores, fungal fragments or traces of actual growth whose identity, location and quantity are reflective of normal fungal ecology for a similar indoor environment.

Therefore, as a proactive precautionary measure to ensure airborne microbial concentrations remain as low as possible, the following recommendations are suggested for consideration by the Client:

— The continued use of dehumidifiers and HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to reduce the levels of ambient relative humidity and to desiccate airborne mould spores within the space. The use of these devices should continue as part of a routine program to ensure airborne mould concentrations are kept as low as possible within the teaching/learning spaces. Dehumidifiers can also be used to expedite the drying process following other remediation efforts such as wiping of hard surfaces with disinfecting agents.

Based on the observation made and results obtained during this assessment, WSP suggests the following general recommendations for all other rooms assessed:

— Cleaning of hard surfaces using disinfectants or disinfecting agents (alcohol or vinegar based solutions preferably) and the vacuuming of floors and furnishings with a Type H HEPA vacuum.


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— Maintain good housekeeping such as routine cleaning of surfaces using disinfectants or disinfecting agents, vacuuming of floors with HEPA filtered vacuum cleaners (preferably), use of mechanical ventilation to better regulate the ambient air quality within the assessed spaces including regular air exchanges, vacuuming of furnishing (if possible) etc. in all areas is crucial. These housekeeping measures should be implemented throughout the school and are a proactive measure to better manage the risk of mould exposure.

— Ensure all air-conditioning units are regularly cleaned and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers specifications.


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1 INTRODUCTION WSP Australia Pty Limited (WSP) was engaged by Department of Education (the Client) to undertake testing for potential microbial/mould contamination within rooms BR0003, BR0004, BR0005, BR0007, BR0012, BR0016, BR0017, BR0018, BR0022, BR0023, BR0029, BR1004, BR1005, BR1007, BR1008, BR1012, BR1014, BR1016, BR1021, BR1026, BR1027 and CR0004, CR0005 and CR0009 of Passfield Park School, located at 53 Guernsey Avenue, Minto NSW 2566.

This assessment was conducted on Saturday 3rd August 2019.

In accordance with the agreed scope of works, the purpose of our assessment was to undertake microbial air quality monitoring at locations where students and staff frequent. Our scope of work included the following:

— Visual inspection of rooms for evidence of mould growth.

— Sampling of total airborne yeast and fungi.

— Testing air quality and thermal comfort parameters relevant to mould infestation, including the following:

Carbon dioxide;

Relative humidity;

Temperature; and

Testing the building material moisture levels for evidence of water ingress.

This report documents the findings of the assessment including sampling methodologies, site observations, evaluation criteria, findings, discussion and recommendations.


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2 METHODOLOGY

2.1 TEMPERATURE, RELATIVE HUMIDITY & CO2, Temperature, relative humidity and carbon dioxide (CO2) were monitored using a TSI Q-Trak 7575 IAQ monitor. Monitoring of the indoor air quality (IAQ) parameters described in Section 3, provides an indication of the adequacy of fresh air supplied to the class room. Where there is insufficient supply of fresh air, discomfort symptoms such as stuffy or stale air may be reported. Adequate supply of fresh air is required to dilute the airborne contaminants to acceptable levels for human comfort and health considerations.

2.2 AIR SAMPLING FOR MICROORGANISMS (AOC) Airborne sampling for total mould (i.e. viable and non-viable fungi) was carried out using a pre-loaded cassette i.e. a Zefon Air-O-Cell cassette. The Air-O-Cell cassette operates upon the principle of inertial impaction whereby particulate laden air is drawn through the cassettes tapered inlet slit and directed towards a small slide containing the collection media. The adhesive nature of the collection media prevents the collected particulate from blurring or being washed off during the laboratory staining process, and eliminates sample loss from vibration during handling and shipment.

Sampling was performed using a hand-held microbial air sampling device to collect 75 litre air samples over a five-minute period. All samples were then packaged and sent under chain of custody (COC) conditions to an external NATA accredited laboratory for microscopic counting and identification of genus by a certified mycologist.

2.3 BUILDING MATERIAL MOISTURE CONTENT Despite there being plenty of literature about the strong association of moisture levels in buildings and the occurrence of mould growth, there is no established literature or guidance material on what moisture content in different types of materials is considered to be acceptable to minimise mould growth other than for relative humidity in humidity controlled environments. Moisture content was measured with the aid of an Extech Dual Moisture Meter Pro. This instrument allows for moisture readings to be taken from a variety of surfaces including walls, floors, ceilings (where possible), skirting board, window frames etc. with the aid of both moisture measurement pins as well as a pin-less sensor for testing hard surfaces throughout the assessed location(s).


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3 EVALUATION CRITERIA Air quality and thermal comfort of occupants within buildings is dependent on an array of multifaceted parameters which impact on one another, including (but not limited to) airborne contaminants (e.g. chemical vapours, mould spores), thermal comfort parameters (relative humidity, air movement and air temperature) and fresh air changes (to remove odours, excessive moisture and carbon dioxide levels).

The following guidelines are based on mechanically operated heating, ventilation, air-conditioning (HVAC) systems. Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air-Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH) refers to the following documents as a guide in quantifying indoor air quality.

3.1 INDOOR AIR QUALITY GUIDELINES It should be noted that air quality guidelines are not generally enforceable under the relevant health and safety legislation as these pertain to the comfort of occupants and are not usually a statutory exposure standard. Air quality guidelines are designed to ensure that all members of the public (including sensitive persons) are protected and not just healthy workers, ensuring general common law obligations and general health and safety obligations are met. Failing to ensure air quality is acceptable can reduce the comfort of occupants, influencing worker productivity and morale.

Air quality guidelines in this report are sourced from a variety of government and non-government organisations with recognised expertise and good industry standing. Indoor air quality publications used in this report include (but are not limited to) the following references:

— AS 1668.2-2012, ‘The use of ventilation and air conditioning in buildings –Part 2: Mechanical ventilation in buildings’.

— ASHRAE Standard 55, 2013, ‘Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy’.

— ASHRAE Standard 62.1, 2016, ‘Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality’.

— AHRAE Standard 62.2, 2016 ‘Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-rise Residential Buildings’.

— ISO 7730-2005, Ergonomics of the thermal environment – Analytical determination and interpretation of thermal comfort using calculation of the PMV and PPD indices and local thermal comfort criteria.

— Environmental Protection (Air) Policy 2008 (Qld Government).

— IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mould Remediation ANSI/IICRC S520-2015.

3.2 CARBON DIOXIDE Carbon dioxide (CO2) measurements are compared against the guideline limit of 1000 ppm, prescribed in the ASHRAE Standard 62.1 and 62.2 Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality (American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers).

Carbon dioxide measurements provide an indication of the adequacy of fresh air levels supplied to each floor of the building. Where there is insufficient supply of fresh air, discomfort symptoms such as stuffy or stale air may be reported and may cause drowsiness or headaches in some people. Adequate supply of fresh air is required to dilute carbon dioxide and other pollutants to acceptable levels for human comfort and health considerations.

Symptoms associated with CO2 tend to worsen during the course of the day in an office environment, often peaking in the mid-afternoon due to build-up of CO2 in the atmosphere.


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3.3 TEMPERATURE AND RELATIVE HUMIDITY Recommended temperature and relative humidity ranges are summarised below in Table 3.1.

Table 3.1 Guidelines – Temperature and relative humidity

GUIDELINE REFERENCE TEMPERATURE RELATIVE HUMIDITY

ISO 7730-2005 Winter Range 20 – 24°C

Summer Range 23 – 26°C

30 – 70%

Temperature and Relative Humidity are compared with the recommended thermal comfort suggested by the International

Standard (ISO-7730-2005 Moderate Thermal Environments – Determination of the PMV and PPD indices and

specification of the conditions for thermal comfort).

These standards specify key thermal comfort parameters known to be acceptable to at least 80% of building occupants. Therefore, it may not be possible to achieve an acceptable thermal environment for all occupants of the space due to individual difference, including activity and/or clothing.

3.4 BUILDING MATERIAL MOISTURE LEVELS In the absence of clearly defined building material moisture guidelines, guidance for moisture levels have been adopted from the Extech Dual Moisture Meter Pro (instrument used on site) as a reference.

Table 3.2 Extech Moisture Range

RISK / MEASURE MODE WOOD MOISTURE EQUIVALENT (%WME)

Wood (%) Building Material (%)

Low Risk, Dry 5 – 11.9 1.5 – 16.9

Medium Risk, At Risk of Becoming Wet 12 – 15.9 17 – 19.9

High Risk, Wet 16 - 50 20 - 33

3.5 AIRBORNE MICROBIAL CONCENTRATION LEVELS There are no regulatory agency standards or guidelines for airborne microbial contamination levels in the home or workplace. Airborne microbial levels should be compared against locally obtained external background levels. Airborne microbial concentration levels found to be appreciably above external reference levels do not necessarily imply that conditions are hazardous to health but may indicate an air quality or moisture problem requiring further investigation. When comparing external to indoor microbial levels, indoor microbial concentration levels would need to be an order of magnitude greater (i.e. ten times greater) than external levels to be considered a problem (i.e. indoor levels have a ratio compared with external levels of 10:1) in accordance with the ACGIH publication titled, ‘Guidelines for the Assessment of Bio-aerosols’, (1989). This is because microbial fungi and bacterial concentration levels in indoor air varies greatly.

The 2009 WHO Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality, Dampness and Mould further cites that:

As the relationship between dampness, microbial growth and health effects cannot be quantified precisely, no health-based guideline values or thresholds can be recommended for acceptable levels of contamination by microorganisms. Instead, it is


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recommended that dampness and mould-related problems be prevented. When they occur, they should be remediated because they increase the risk of hazardous exposure to microbes and chemicals.

The Worldwide Exposure Standards for Mold & Bacteria (2010)1 provide guideline values for elevated, high and very high mould spores and hyphae.

Table 3.3 Airborne mould guideline values for airborne non-viable mould spores and hyphae

CONCENTRATION / M3

(CFU OR SPORES)

INDICATIVE

REFERENCE

ACTIONS

<100 Low No further action required

100-1000 Normal mould ecology No further action required

1,000-4,225 Elevated

Further Investigation is warranted when mould spores and

hyphae are detected in the air at concentrations greater than

1,000/m3.

4,225-10,000 High

Where the airborne mould spores and hyphal concentration are

above 4,225/m3 active mould may be present. The cause and

source of the mould should be determined and readdressed.

>10,000 Very High

If the airborne spore and hyphal concentrations exceed

10,000/m3 all occupants should be excluded from the area.

However, if occupants have predisposing health

considerations, lower exclusion limits should be considered.

Airborne microbial levels may vary considerably over time due to seasonal variation, outside leaf litter, meteorological conditions and activities being undertaken nearby which may cause microbial levels to be elevated. Airborne mould concentration levels taken at the same location may vary.

Where microbial airborne concentration levels are significantly elevated compared to external background levels, further investigations should be undertaken including further testing for the presence of pathogens and speciation to determine the predominant types of microbes present to help identify the underlying origin of the microbes.

Human exposure to microbial growth may occur by inhalation, physical contact or ingestion. However, the presence of microbial growth on building materials or in the air may not necessarily indicate that people will be exposed or exhibit health effects. Factors that determine health effects include the nature of the microbial growth, route of exposure and the susceptibility of the person(s) exposed. Due to these factors, it is not possible to determine “safe” or “unsafe” levels of exposure to microbial growth. Rather, several standards have been adopted to determine whether the air may have abnormally high levels of mould bio-aerosols.

3.6 SUMMARY ASSESSMENT CRITERIA Our adopted standards and guidelines for each air quality parameter type are listed in Table 3.4. It should be noted that the indoor air quality guidelines quoted are intended for comparison to a standard closed (air-conditioned) office environment. These values are not enforceable and values provided are recommended to maintain comfort and wellbeing of occupants.

1 “Worldwide Exposure Standards for Mold & Bacteria - Assessment Guidelines for Air, Water, Dust Ductwork, Carpet & Insulation”, 8th Ed., 2010 – Robert C. & Gail M. Brandys, OEHCS, Inc. IL. ISBN 0-9774785-0-5


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Table 3.4 Summary of Assessment Criteria – All Parameters

TEST SURFACE AIR QUALITY GUIDELINES REFERENCE SOURCE

Air sampling total mould <1000 counts or spores/m3 Worldwide Exposure Standards for Mold

& Bacteria 2010

Carbon dioxide Not greater than 700 ppm above local

outdoor concentration levels

ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2016, Appendix

C.

Relative humidity 30% to 70% RH ASHRAE 55-2010/ ISO 7730

Temperature Summer: 23°C to 28°C

Winter: 20°C to 25.5°C

ASHRAE 55-2010/ ISO 7730

3.7 MOULD REMEDIATION CLASSIFICATIONS A range of measures such as an independent visual inspection by an experienced indoor environmental professional or

occupational hygienist, which may or may not also involve the collection of bulk and surface sampling. Additionally,

moisture detection and water activity measurements can be useful validation tools in assessing the effectiveness of mould

remediation measures in combination with selected air sampling of building areas and HVAC systems using standard test

methods.

A cohesive approach of assessing mould activity and to determine the effectiveness of remediation is to shift away from

using “size” of visible mould growth and instead establish mould contamination categories (Conditions 1, 2 and 3) and

guidance as defined in IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mould Remediation ANSI/IICRC

S520-2015. Condition 1, 2 and 3 are defined as:

— Condition 1 (normal fungal ecology): An indoor environment that may have settled spores, fungal fragments or traces of actual growth whose identity, location and quantity are reflective of normal fungal ecology for a similar indoor environment;

— Condition 2 (settled spores): An indoor environment which is primarily contaminated with settled spores that were dispersed directly or indirectly from a Condition 3 area, and which may have traces of actual growth; and

— Condition 3 (actual growth): An indoor environment contaminated with the presence of actual mould growth and associated spores. Actual growth includes growth that is active, dormant or visible.


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4 RESULTS

4.1 VISUAL ASSESSMENT In accordance with the agreed scope of works, the following observations were made within the areas assessed:

BR0003

— Ceiling comprised of SMF tiles. Walls are concrete construction. The floor is carpet on top of concrete.

— The room was unoccupied during the assessment.

— Mechanical ventilation system was present in the room but was not operational during the assessment.

— No access to roof or wall cavities during the inspection.

— No access to subfloor space.

— Windows and entry door were closed.

BR0004

— Ceiling comprised of concrete. Walls are brick construction. The floor is carpet on top of concrete.

— Minor water damage on ceiling.






BR0005


— Minor water/ mould staining on walls






BR0007

— Ceiling comprised of plasterboard. Walls are brick construction. The floor is carpet on top of concrete.





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BR0012

— Ceiling is concrete construction. Walls are brick construction. The floor is linoleum on top of concrete.






BR0016

— Ceiling comprised of concrete. Walls are brick construction. The floor is linoleum.






BR0017

— Ceiling is concrete construction. Walls are brick construction. The floor is linoleum on top of concrete.



— Dehumidifier system was present in the room but was not operational during the assessment.




BR0018

— Ceiling comprised of concrete. Walls are brick construction. The floor is vinyl tile on top of concrete.

— Water damage on kickboards and wash basin.







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BR0022

— Ceiling comprised of Plasterboard. Walls are brick construction. The floor is linoleum on top of concrete.






BR0023


— Minor water/mould staining on walls.






BR0029







BR1004

— Ceiling comprised of Plasterboard. Walls are brick construction. The floor is carpet on top of concrete.






BR1005





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BR1007








BR1008







BR1012


— The room was unoccupied during the assessment


— Dehumidifier system was present in the room but was not operational on arrival due to power failure.




BR1014


— The room was unoccupied during the assessment


— Dehumidifier system was present in the room but was not operational on arrival due to power failure.




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BR1016


— Minor water stains observed in brickwork in study nook.







BR1021






BR1026








BR1027

— Ceiling comprised of Plasterboard. Walls are brick construction. The floor is carpet on top of concrete.

— No malodour was present upon entry to the room.





— Window was partially open and entry door closed.


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CR0004

— Ceiling comprised of fibre cement sheet. Walls are brick construction. The floor is linoleum adjacent to the entry and mostly carpet laid on top of concrete.

— A malodour was present upon entry to the room.

— Wet patches present to the carpet.






CR0005

— Ceiling comprised of fibre cement sheet. Walls are brick construction. The floor is linoleum adjacent to the entry and mostly carpet laid on top of concrete.


— Wet patches present to the carpet.






CR0009

— Ceiling comprised of fibre cement sheet. Walls are plasterboard. The floor is linoleum on top of concrete.








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4.2 INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND BUILDING MATERIAL MOISTURE LEVELS

Table 4.1 Results of Air Quality and Building Material Moisture Content (Passfield Park School – 03/08/2019)

TEST LOCATION CO2 (PPM) TEMPERATURE

(°C)

RELATIVE

HUMIDITY (%)

MOISTURE CONTENT (WME%)

BR0003 390 16.9 48.1 Ceiling (SMF tiles) = 2-4

Walls (Concrete) = 13-14

Floor (Carpet) = 8-9

BR0004 406 16.7 46.3 Ceiling (Concrete) = 20-21

Walls (Brick) = 13-14


Window sills (Timber) = 11-12





BR0007 407 13.6 51.2 Ceiling (Plasterboard) = 5-6






Floor (Linoleum) = 32-33




Floor (Linoleum) = 25

Window sills (Timber) = 12

BR0017 417 11.4 62.9 Ceiling (Concrete) = 21


Floor (Linoleum) = 19




Floor (Vinyl tile) = 41-42


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(°C)

RELATIVE

HUMIDITY (%)










Window sills (Timber)= 12-13





BR1004 443 15.8 47.8 Window sills (Timber) = 7.0

Skirting boards (Timber) = 8.4


Skirting boards (Timber) = 7.5-10

BR1007 444 15.3 47.5 Ceiling (Plaster) = 8.8

Window sills (Timber) = 7.7


BR1008 459 14.4 50.3 Cabinets (Timber) = 7.5-9.9



BR1012 446 `13.6 51.6 Ceiling (Plaster) = 8.2



BR1014 440 11.5 54.0 -

BR1016 446 15.4 48.6 Ceiling (Plaster) = 9.1





BR1026 430 12.0 55.1 Walls (Brick) = 10.7-15.4

Walls (Concrete) = 10-15.4


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(°C)

RELATIVE

HUMIDITY (%)




CR0004 447 12.3 54.1 Window sills (Timber) = 7.5


CR0005 440 9.5 68.9 Window sills (Timber) = 8.3


CR0009 439 13.1 55.4 Walls (Plasterboard) = 8.1



External – Central courtyard (01)

424 6.2 75.7 N/A

External – Central courtyard (02)

385 10.8 55.8 N/A


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4.3 AIRBORNE MICROBIAL ORGANISM CONCENTRATION LEVELS

Table 4.2 provides the results for the total concentrations and genera of mould detected. The microbial laboratory certificate of analysis for airborne mould and presumptive yeast is provided in Appendix C.

Table 4.2 Viable and non-viable airborne fungal genera mixture (Passfield Park School – 03/08/2019)

AIRBORNE CONCENTRATION, SPORES/M3

Location To

tal M

ould

Tota

l Spo

res

Fung

al H

ypha

e

Uni

dent

ifie

d fu

ngal

spo

res

Gene

ral D

irt &

Deb

ris

Asc

omyc

etes

Asp

ergi

llus

/ Pe

nici

llium

sp.

Basi

diom

ycet

es

Clad

ospo

rium

sp.

Fusa

rium

sp.

Nig

rosp

ora

sp.

Yea

st

External – Central courtyard (01) 213 8 - 2 M 4 - - 2 - - -

External – Central courtyard (02) 373 14 - 3 M 1 2 - 8 - - -

BR0003 613 23 - 2 VH 2 8 - 11 - - -

BR0004 293 11 1 3 H 2 - - 5 - - -

BR0005 187 7 - - VH - 1 - 6 - - -

BR0007 240 9 1 1 H 2 1 - 4 - - -

BR0012 53 2 - 1 L - - - - - 1 -

BR0016 187 7 - 1 M 2 - 1 3 - - -

BR0017 BDL 0 - - L - - - - - - -

BR0018 53 2 - - M - 1 - 1 - - -

BR0022 187 7 - 1 M 1 3 - 2 - - -

BR0023 213 8 - 1 H - 4 - 2 - - 1

BR0029 213 8 1 - VH 1 1 - 5 - - -

BR1004 480 18 - 3 H 2 3 - 9 - - -

BR1005 240 9 - 1 H 3 1 - 4 - - -

BR1007 53 2 - 2 M - - - - - - -

BR1008 160 6 - - M 4 1 - 1 - - -

BR1012 53 2 - 1 M 1 - - - - - -

BR1016 27 1 - 1 L - - - - - - -

BR1021 187 7 - 1 M 2 2 - 2 - - -

BR1026 133 5 - 1 M 1 - - 2 - - 1

BR1027 320 12 - 1 H 3 - - 7 1 - -

CR0004 53 2 - 1 M - - - 1 - - -

CR0005 587 22 1 1 VH 4 8 - 11 - - -


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AIRBORNE CONCENTRATION, SPORES/M3

CR0009 53 2 - 1 M - - - 1 - - -

The microbial laboratory certificates of analysis for airborne mould, bacteria and yeast is provided in Appendix C.


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5 DISCUSSION

5.1 INDOOR AIR QUALITY Relative humidity and carbon dioxide within all rooms assessed were found to be within the acceptable range when referenced against the ASHRAE adopted criteria. Temperature was below the acceptable range when referenced against the ASHRAE adopted criteria. However, this was expected as the rooms were unoccupied and the air-conditioning systems were not operational.

These results were achieved within unoccupied spaces thus; levels of carbon dioxide would be expected to increase once the assessed locations are occupied.

5.2 BUILDING MATERIAL MOISTURE LEVELS The building material moisture levels were taken from several different surfaces throughout each room assessed. The results of building material moisture levels are provided in Table 4.1.

When referencing against the adopted guideline limits in Table 3.2, the following surfaces were classified as medium risk/ at risk of becoming wet:

— BR0004 – Concrete ceiling

— BR0005 – Concrete ceiling and timber window sills

— BR0012 – Concrete ceiling, brick walls and linoleum floor

— BR0016 – Concrete ceiling and linoleum floor

— BR0017 – Concrete ceiling and linoleum floor

— BR0018 – Concrete ceiling and vinyl tile floor

— BR0022 – Linoleum floor

— BR0023 – Timber window sills

— BR0029 – Concrete ceiling

All other assessed surfaces were measured to be a ‘low risk/dry’ material.

Concrete and brick surfaces tested indicated medium moisture contents, however, without being able to measure beyond the surface of these materials, the measured levels may not be a true reflection of actual moisture content.

5.3 AIRBORNE MICROBIAL ORGANISM CONCENTRATION LEVELS

Airborne microbial concentrations within rooms BR0003 and CR0005 were above the concentrations measured in the external reference samples. However, they were below the referenced Worldwide Exposure Standards for Mold and Bacteria (2010) guideline values and thus, are the indoor fungal ecology is deemed normal and classified as Condition 1 environment.


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All other rooms assessed were determined to comprise of normal fungal ecology and can be classified as Condition 1 and were below the referenced Exposure Standards for Mold and Bacteria (2010) guideline values as well as being below the external reference sample.

Despite the presence of various fungal genera, Cladosporium sp. were identified as the dominant fungal genera present in most of the samples collected. It should be noted that these genera were also detected in the external reference samples. These results would indicate that likely source may have originated outdoors rather than originating within the indoor environment.

Cladosporium sp. are a common species of mould found worldwide and proliferate where overall relative humidity and rainfall are elevated as well as where there may be an accumulation of dust or were cleaning practices are ineffective. Cladosporium sp. are also soil-borne fungi and are commonly found in indoor environments especially in areas where water ingress issues exist or existed and conditions are left untreated and thus, allow for favourable conditions for mould proliferation.

At elevated concentrations, Cladosporium species may cause health impacts such as lethargy, allergies, asthma, infections, dermatitis, can be immunosuppressive and may cause hypersensitive pneumonitis. If actions are not taken to remediate these areas, the risk to human health may increase given the elevated surface and, to an extent, airborne fungi concentrations, in the assessed areas.


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6 RECOMMENDATIONS The airborne microbial concentrations detected within the nominated rooms of Block B and Block C were within the adopted Worldwide Exposure Standards for Mold & Bacteria (2010) criteria. Airborne microbial concentrations within rooms BR0003 and CR0005 were deemed to be normal despite being greater than the outside air reference samples as the measured concentrations were below the referenced Worldwide Exposure Standards for Mold and Bacteria (2010) guideline values.

Based on the observations made and the readings obtained, all assessed spaces are deemed as Condition 1 in accordance with IICRC S520 – 2015 guidelines. i.e. an indoor environment that may have settled spores, fungal fragments or traces of actual growth whose identity, location and quantity are reflective of normal fungal ecology for a similar indoor environment.

Therefore, as a proactive precautionary measure to ensure airborne microbial concentrations remain as low as possible, the following recommendations are suggested for consideration by the Client:

— The continued use of dehumidifiers and HEPA-filtered air scrubbers to reduce the levels of ambient relative humidity and to desiccate airborne mould spores within the space. The use of these devices should continue as part of a routine program to ensure airborne mould concentrations are kept as low as possible within the teaching/learning spaces. Dehumidifiers can also be used to expedite the drying process following other remediation efforts such as wiping of hard surfaces with disinfecting agents.

Based on the observation made and results obtained during this assessment, WSP suggests the following general recommendations for all other rooms assessed:

— Cleaning of hard surfaces using disinfectants or disinfecting agents (alcohol or vinegar based solutions preferably) and the vacuuming of floors and furnishings with a Type H HEPA vacuum.

— Maintain good housekeeping such as routine cleaning of surfaces using disinfectants or disinfecting agents, vacuuming of floors with HEPA filtered vacuum cleaners (preferably), use of mechanical ventilation to better regulate the ambient air quality within the assessed spaces including regular air exchanges, vacuuming of furnishing (if possible) etc. in all areas is crucial. These housekeeping measures should be implemented throughout the school and are a proactive measure to better manage the risk of mould exposure.

— Ensure all air-conditioning units are regularly cleaned and maintained in accordance with the manufacturers specifications.


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7 REFERENCES — ANSI IICRC S520 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mould Remediation ANSI/IICRC S520-2015.

— American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). 1999. Bio-aerosols: assessment and control.

— ASHRAE Standard 55, 2010, ‘Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy’.

— ASHRAE Standard 62, 2004, ‘Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality’.

— Bureau of Meteorology (2019). Daily Weather Observations. Retrieved from: http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/IDCJDW2124.latest.shtml

— ISO 7730-2005, Ergonomics of the thermal environment – Analytical determination and interpretation of thermal comfort using calculation of the PMV and PPD indices and local thermal comfort criteria.

— National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) ‘Goals for maximum permissible levels of pollutants in ambient air’, (rescinded in 2002).

— Stuttard, E. 2010. Testing for IAQ Microbial Indicators- Outlining strategies for measuring micro-organisms and the interpretation of microbial test results. Unpublished paper. EML Consulting Services Qld Pty Ltd.

— Standards Australia. 1668.2. 2012. ‘The use of ventilation and air conditioning in buildings – Part 2: Mechanical ventilation in buildings’.

— U.S. Department of Labour, occupational safety and health administration, directorate of technical support and emergency management, office of science and technology assessment. (2013). A brief guide to mould in the workplace. (OSHA, 2013). Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/dts/shib/shib101003.html.

— Worldwide Exposure Standards for Mold & Bacteria - Assessment Guidelines for Air, Water, Dust Ductwork, Carpet & Insulation”, 8th Ed., 2010 – Robert C. & Gail M. Brandys, OEHCS, Inc.

PHOTOGRAPHS

PHOTOGRAPHS

Photo 1: Depicts room BR0003 Photo 2: Depicts window left open in BR1027

Photo 3: Depicts room CR0005 Photo 4: Depicts room BR1012

Photo 5: Depicts the dehumidifier within BR1007 Photo 6: Depicts stairwell BR1026

DEFINITIONS


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DEFINITIONS

Assessment Set of formal methods for determining the nature, extent and levels of indoor air quality present.

Acceptable indoor air quality

Air in which there are no known contaminants at harmful concentrations as determined by cognizant authorities and with which a substantial majority (80% or more) of occupants exposed do not express dissatisfaction.

Air conditioning The process of treating air to meet the requirements of a conditioned space by controlling its temperature, humidity, cleanliness and distribution.

ASHRAE American Society of Heating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, 2013

Dampness Any visible, measurable or perceived outcomes of excess moisture that causes problems in buildings such as mould, leaks or material degradation, mould odour or directly measured excess moisture (in terms of relative humidity in air or moisture content of materials).

HVAC Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (systems).

IAQ Indoor air quality

ISO International Organisation for Standardisation

HESP Health, Environment and Safety Plan (HESP) required to be completed under the WSP Australia’s business management system (BMS)

NHMRC National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

Moisture Includes water vapour, water in a medium such as within soil or insulation but not bulk water or flowing water.

Mould Mould is a generic or common term for microscopic fungi that grow in the form of multicellular filaments called hyphae. In contrast, microscopic fungi that grow as single cells are called yeasts.

PM2.5 Particulate Matter, (Fine particles) of less than 2.5µm in diameter; generally found in smoke and haze, emitted from natural sources like forest fires, industrial combustion sources, and wood heating, or formed when gases react in the air.

PM10 Particulate matter (Coarse particles) of less than 10 µm in diameter found near roadways and dusty industries such as quarrying, and from natural sources such as dust storms and pollens.

PID Photo-ionisation device. Device typically used to screen for the presence of ionisable hydrocarbons in air. Displays results as total VOCs in terms of


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an isobutylene equivalent concentration, unless the PID is calibrated using alternative gas (e.g. hexane).

PPE Personal protective equipment (impervious gloves, Type 5 and 6 coveralls, steel toe boots, eye protection)

Remediation Means removal or mitigation of causal elements giving rise to IAQ problems.

RPE Respiratory protective equipment (combination organic vapour, acid gas, ammonia, mercury vapour cartridge with half or full face respirator mask) compliant with AS 1716 and selected and used in accordance with AS 1715.

TSP Total suspended particulate matter. Particulate matter is the term for solid or liquid particles found in the air including aerosols, dust, smoke and fog. Includes the subsets of PM10 and PM2.5. TSP means particles in the air environment with an equivalent aerodynamic diameter of not more than 50 microns. (This definition varies between jurisdictions and manufacturers with some instruments including the Dust Trak measuring TSP to include particulate with aerodynamic diameter of not more than 100 microns

Ventilation Process of supplying or removing air by natural or mechanical means to or from any space.

LABORTORY REPORTS

Admin Perth: 8/1 Distinction Road, Wangara WA 6065

T:+61 8 9303 2281 Lab Sydney:

9 Water Street, Wentworthville NSW 2145 T:+61 2 8839 7979

www.mycolab.com.au ABN 86 163 891 129

Job Report: 11267- PS114654 Page 1 of 4

08 August 2019

WSP Australia Pty Ltd L 27, 680 George Street Sydney NSW 2000

JOB REPORT: 11267- PS114654

Sampling By: David Blackburn on Dated 3rd August 2019

Purpose: Report on Mycological Analysis of Air Samples

1. RESULTS SUMMARY

Air-O-Cell Airborne Fungal (Total) Concentrations Results The air sampling results in Table showed an internal average of 168 spores/m3 airborne fungal concentrations and had a rating of “Normal”. This was lower than the external airborne fungal concentrations. The internal locations tested had “Below Detectable Limits to Elevated” levels of airborne fungal concentrations.

Report Details Follow

This document has commercial confidence status. Copying of this report or any part is not permitted except for the purposes of evaluation. Unless agreed otherwise, Mycolab retains intellectual property rights of this document.

For and on behalf of Mycolab Pty Ltd

Mark Simmons Laboratory Technician

Sample Analysis: Babar Ali (MSc), Laboratory Technician Report Review: Dr. Heike-Kemp (PhD), Principal Mycologist & Managing Director

http://www.mycolab.com.au/

M Y C O L A B P T Y L T D I A Q , M O U L D & A S B E S T O S I N V E S T I G A T I O N S


Table of Contents:

1. Results Summary ............................................................................................................................................................ 1

2. Standard Methods, Glossary & Limitations................................................................................................................... 2

3. Results: Air-O-Cell airborne Fungal Spore (total) Concentrations .............................................................................. 3

2. STANDARD METHODS, GLOSSARY & LIMITATIONS

Airborne – Viable Andersen N6 400 hole sampler or SKC Quicktake30 400 hole sampler @ 28.3 (Bacteria, Mould) litres/min for 2 minutes with 90mm Agar plates (2%MEA, 6%BA); Surface Mould – Viable 55mm RODAC surface press plate filled with 2%MEA or 6%BA; (Bacteria, Mould) Airborne – Non-Viable Bio-Pump or Bio-Pump Plus @15 litres/min for 5 minutes with Zefon Air-O-Cell cassette or a

Slit Type Volumetric Sampler (STVS) at 10litres/min Surface – Non-Viable BioTape or samples taken with adhesive tape, stained with lactophenol and observed under

microscope; Material Samples Materials are sampled using a non-viable method or viable method as listed above; Moisture Measurements Measured using a Protimeter MMS Plus and measurements reflected in %WME; Incubation Conditions Minimum of 96 hrs at 20 ± 2 °C.

Glossary Abbreviation Description

ACC After cooling coil AHU Air Handling Unit BCC Before Cooling Coil BDL Below Detectable Limits CFU Colony forming unit – any part of a fungus that can start growing when it is on nutrient agar media. CFU/cm2 Colony forming units per square centimetre CFU/m3 Colony forming units per cubic metre Colony A consistent mycelium (mould) or a mass of cells (yeasts) that are of one origin. Fungi Any microorganisms belonging to the Kingdom Fungi including mould and Yeast sp. Fungi are commonly referred

to as mould (mold in the USA), though mould only refers to mycelial growing fungi. Genera Part of the taxonomic description of a group of fungi and the most common form of identification. Well known

examples include Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium. HEPA High Efficiency Particulate Filtration that has a 99% efficiency of particles larger than 0.3 microns (0.3 µg). Hyphae A part of filamentous growing fungi that is able to elongate and find new moisture and nutrients and to transport

them over distance. Often described as a root like structure in appearance, but not in function. Mould (mold) Common description of visible fungal colonies with mycelial growth form. Mycotoxin A secondary metabolite produced by fungi as a normal part of respiration. They are found in gaseous form and

inside fungal spores (and conidia). Mycotoxins are a complex mixture of substances which can be either benign or can have serious health effects depending on concentration.

PPE Personal protective equipment Sp. Several species belonging to that genus. Spec. A single fungal species was differentiated but not identified. Species The specific taxonomic description of a fungus Spore A general term referring to all fungal reproductive structures including the spores from sexual reproduction and

conidia from asexual reproduction and resting sclerotia. Sterile mycelia TNTC

A fungal colony containing fungi growing in a vegetative state. Too Numerous To Count – confluent growth.

WME Wood Moisture Equivalent. A measurement of the amount of moisture in a building material as an equivalent of the amount of moisture known to be contained in wood.

Yeast Fungi that produce distinct cells and that reproduce by budding or dividing cells

Limitations The measurements made in this study are best practice and have a high degree of scientific rigour. However it is important to note that there are always limitations that need to be taken into consideration when interpreting the results of biological samples.



3. RESULTS: AIR-O-CELL AIRBORNE FUNGAL SPORE (TOTAL) CONCENTRATIONS

The testing for total spore concentrations was performed using the Air-O-Cell cassette, which is specifically designed for the rapid collection and quantitative analysis of a wide range of airborne aerosols. It collects both viable and non-viable particulate such as mould spores, pollen, insect parts, skin cell fragments, fibres (asbestos, fibreglass, cellulose, etc.) and inorganic particles.

Results The air sampling results in Table showed an internal average of 168 spores/m3 airborne fungal concentrations and had a rating of “Normal”. This was lower than the external airborne fungal concentrations. The internal locations tested had “Below Detectable Limits to Elevated” levels of airborne fungal concentrations.

Table 1a: Total Airborne Fungal Spore Concentrations (spores/m3)

Sam

ple

ID

Location Air

Flo

w R

ate

(L/m

in.)

Sam

plin

g Ti

me

(min

.)

Co

nce

ntr

atio

ns

(sp

ore

s/m

3 )

Tota

l No

Sp

ore

s C

ou

nte

d

Fun

gal H

yph

ae

Un

iden

tifi

ed F

un

gal S

po

res

Gen

Dir

t &

Deb

ris

(L,M

,H,V

H

Asc

om

ycet

es

Asp

erg

illu

s /

Pen

icill

ium

sp

.

Ba

sid

iom

ycet

es

Cla

do

spo

riu

m s

p.

Fusa

riu

m s

p.

Nig

rosp

ora

sp

.

Yeas

t

Rat

ings

(B

DL,

L, N

, E, H

, EH

)

EXT-1 External Air Ref.

15 5 213 8 - 2 M 4 - - 2 - - - N

EXT-2 15 5 373 14 - 3 M 1 2 - 8 - - - N

BR1004-1 BR1004 15 5 480 18 - 3 H 2 3 - 9 - - - N

BR1021-1 BR1021 15 5 187 7 - 1 M 2 2 - 2 - - - N

BR1008-1 BR1008 15 5 160 6 - - M 4 1 - 1 - - - N

BR1026-1 BR1026 15 5 133 5 - 1 M 1 - - 2 - - 1 N

BR1016-1 BR1016 15 5 27 1 - 1 L - - - - - - - L

BR1027-1 BR1027 15 5 320 12 - 1 H 3 - - 7 1 - - N

BR1005-1 BR1005 15 5 240 9 - 1 H 3 1 - 4 - - - N

BR1014-1 BR1014 15 5 80 3 - - M 1 1 - 1 - - - L

BR1007-1 BR1007 15 5 53 2 - 2 M - - - - - - - L

BR1012-1 BR1012 15 5 53 2 - 1 M 1 - - - - - - L

CR0004-1 CR0004 15 5 53 2 - 1 M - - - 1 - - - L

CR0005-1 CR0005 15 5 587 22 1 1 VH 4 8 - 8 - - - E

CR0009-1 CR0009 15 5 53 2 - 1 M - - - 1 - - - L

BR0003-1 BR0003 15 5 613 23 - 2 VH 2 8 - 11 - - - E

BR0004-1 BR0004 15 5 293 11 1 3 H 2 - - 5 - - - N

BR0005-1 BR0005 15 5 187 7 - - VH - 1 - 6 - - - N

BR0029-1 BR0029 15 5 213 8 1 - VH 1 1 - 5 - - - N

BR0007-1 BR0007 15 5 240 9 1 1 H 2 1 - 4 - - - N

BR0016-1 BR0016 15 5 187 7 - 1 M 2 - 1 3 - - - N

BR0012-1 BR0012 15 5 53 2 - 1 L - - - - - 1 - L

BR0023-1 BR0023 15 5 213 8 - 1 H - 4 - 2 - - 1 N

BR0022-1 BR0022 15 5 187 7 - 1 M 1 3 - 2 - - - N

BR0018-1 BR0018 15 5 53 2 - - M - 1 - 1 - - - L

BR0017-1 BR0017 15 5 BDL 0 - - L - - - - - - - BDL

- External Air Average 293 11 - N

- Internal Air Average 168 7 - N



**Total (viable + non-viable) Fungi rating guide for indoor air

Totala Air Fungal Spora

Concentrations Range Indoor Concentrations in

Mechanically Ventilated Buildingsf

Indoor Concentrations in Naturally Ventilated Buildings

g

Below Detectable Limits (BDL) <1 spores/m3 <1 spores/m3

Low (L) <100 spores/m3 ≤ ½ OA

Normalb (N) < ½ OA or < 500 spores/m3 ≤OA

Elevatedc (E) 500 to 1000 spores/m3 ≤ 1000 spores/m3

Highd (H) 1000 to 2500 spores/m3 ≤ 2500 spores/m3

Extremely Highe (EH) 2500 to > 5000 spores/m3 > 5000 spores/m3

a The total air spora guideline only pertains to a sampling method of either a Slit Type Volumetric Samper (STVS) at 10 litres/min or an Air-O-Cell type sampler at 15 litres/min sample rate collected onto sticky (adhesive) film. Sample counting with microscope at 400 times magnification (40x objective plus 10x eyepiece). Concentrations of all living and dead fungal particles. Reported in spores and/or conidia per cubic metre (total spores/m3). b Refers to a concentration of airborne fungal particles that is similar to the normal background air spora or the outdoor air spora concentration. c Higher than the normal or background exposure to the total concentration of airborne fungal particles. May present a health risk to sensitised individuals. Health symptoms should be noted. d Potential health risk to sensitized individuals. Health symptoms should be monitored and assessed by medical doctor where required. Fungi should be speciated to determine actual health risk using viable air sampling methods. Depending on the counting method used, the practical upper counting limit may actually be 4000 CFU/m3. e Probable health risk to all persons. Speciation of fungi using viable air sampling methods should be performed to check for indicator fungal species that are known to cause health effects or are known to produce mycotoxins of concern. f Mechanically Ventilated refers to an OA (Outdoor Air) intake to BCA and AS1668 plus filtration media to AS1324 (generally 10% OA intake and filter media to F2) g Naturally Ventilated must have open-able doors and/or windows **Australian Mould Guidelines AMG-2010-1

Figure 1a: Total Airborne Fungal Spore Concentrations (spores/m3): [SL. 1-18]

Figure 1b: Total Airborne Fungal Spore Concentrations (spores/m3): [SL. 19-24]

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