Massachusetts Courthouse Shut Down Due to Mold

Summary

Recently, a press release on WebWire raised concerns about the Malden Courthouse, a Massachusetts Courthouse shut down due to mold. The District Courthouse near Boston is reportedly contaminated with mold and other airborne  pollutants.

After abruptly closing, the Malden Courthouse is now undergoing repairs. The court staff expressed concerns regarding the indoor air quality. An assessment of the air in the building found dusts, chemicals and mold. These particles in the air can make lung conditions worse. And, they can also irritate the skin, eyes and breathing. They can even lead to serious long term health effects, including liver damage.

Air contaminated with dust, mold, asbestos, lead, and other chemicals is toxic. It is frequently associated with construction activities in buildings where people work.

Details of Contamination

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports chronic dampness from water is harmful. This water intrusions lead to increased bacteria, mold and other microbes in the courthouse building environment. In addition, mold-contaminated materials require special precautions prior to removal. This process prevents harmful dusts from spreading into the occupied space.”

Proceedings of the Massachusetts Courthouse shut down due to mold temporarily moved to Medford District Court. They will be held in this location until construction is completed. Supporting staff concerns, an environmental assessment also confirmed contamination of the court environment.

Also, recommendations include increased ventilation and air filtration units. Additionally, report recommended improved separation between renovation, employees and court activities. Furthermore, the study suggests that replacement of old heat and air conditioning equipment needs to be investigated.

Note: Mold-Help has tracked mold problems in public buildings since 2004. We find that mold problems are common in public and government institutions. Mold issues are generally related to:

• Lack of oversight and repairs. These situations can be due to lack of funds, general belief by the public that mold does not make people sick, and officials looking the other way.
• Also related – the age of the buildings. Many public building are quite old, so certain systems, like heat and air conditioning, and the roof are deteriorating.

To read the press release, visit Webwire. Additional news coverage is available in at EverettIndependent.com