Bacterial and Fungal Analysis Report, Feb-Mar 2002

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

Carynebacterium spp (gram-positive bacteria) are widespread in nature and are commonly found on the skin of humans and mammals. Bacillus spp aie commonly recoverexl from a variety of environmental sites such as soil, air, dust, debris and surfaces that come into contact with water (e.g., fountains, condensation pans). Pseudomonas fluorescens and Pseudomonas putida are gram-negative bacilli that are often isolated where there is a stagnant water source such as improperly drained drip pans, humidifiers, cooling towers, sink traps, factories, waste and sewage treatment plants. Altemaria, Cladosporium and Peniciltium spp are widely distributed in nature and can be commonly isolated in low concentrations from the indoor environment These fungi are known to colonize the ventilation systems of homes, schools and office buildings. The isolation of fungi such as Ulocladium spp often suggest excess moisture and/or increased relative humidity within the areas sampled. Fungi can easily grow on many common building materials when exposed to moisture. Increased concentrations of many fungal species within the occupied spaces of a residence or building may cause allergenic or hypersensitive reactions in the semsitized individual. There is no practical way to eliminate all fungal spores from the indoor environment. The way to control indoor fungal contami nation is to control moisture. This is obtained by reducing indoor humidity to below 60% and by eliminating sources of moisture.

Herbert Layman BS, SM (ASCP) LabDirectir

Suzanne Mamrose BS, SM (ASCP) Lab Administrator

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