What is Fungus Exposure?
Fungus exposure is coming in contact with a type of fungus either through touch or via your airways. Damp, confined spaces are hotbeds for fungus growth, and while fungus may not have the same detrimental effect on electrical projects as it does other building materials, working in these conditions requires a certain level of protection and care. What protects from fungus exposure, and what are different kinds of fungus exposure? Read on to learn more.
What are Different Kinds of Fungus Exposure?
Fungus is everywhere, indoors and out, and can take form as both airborne particles and microbial growths. Is mold a fungus? Yes, mold is a microscopic fungus that can develop on any organic matter. Mildew is considered a type of mold that grows in high humidity environments such as showers or basements.
Is Mold a Fungus?
Yes, mold is a microscopic fungus that can develop on any organic matter. Mildew is considered a type of mold that grows in high humidity environments such as showers or basements.
What Types of Fungus Can Form on Wires?
The main types of fungi that you’ll find growing on wires are mold and mildew.
Because fungus takes shape in so many forms, there are many different kinds of fungus exposure. Breathing in airborne spores can lead to respiratory health issues, while touching or eating molds can cause allergic reactions, rashes, and a wide range of other unpleasant symptoms.
What Are the Types of Fungus Exposure?
Because fungus takes shape in so many forms, there are many different kinds of fungus exposure. Breathing in airborne spores can lead to respiratory health issues, while touching or eating molds can cause allergic reactions, rashes, and a wide range of other unpleasant symptoms.
Some of the most common illnesses associated with fungus include:
- Asthma
- Rhinitis
- Allergic bronchopulmonary mycoses
- Allergic fungal sinusitis
- Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Should you find yourself working in a damp or high humidity environment where fungus and mold are likely to develop, it’s important to protect yourself against these ailments.
What Protects From Fungus Exposure?
The first step in protection from fungus exposure is to protect yourself. When working in moldy or fungus-prone areas, be sure to:
- Wear gloves and protective clothing: Gloves made of natural rubber, neoprene, nitrile, polyurethane or PVC are recommended for maximum protection.
- Wear safety goggles: Because mold spores can be airborne, choose goggles without ventilation holes.
- Wear a mask or respirator: N-95 masks provide superior protection against breathing mold and fungus into your lungs.
How Can Fungus Form on Electrical Wires?
Unfortunately, mold can develop on wires and cables, especially inside the conduit after water exposure. To protect your project against fungus exposure:
- Use water-resistant cables and wiring
- Properly caulk and seal around electrical outlets to minimize moisture flow
- Check your HVAC system and exhaust for proper air flow and pressure levels
- Clean surrounding areas with mold-killing chemicals such as bleach
Can Fungus Ruin a Wire’s Current?
The main concern with regard to fungus growing on electrical equipment and wires relates less to the effect it has on a wire’s current, and more on health concerns. Fungus can hide wire identifier markings, or worse, conceal wire and cable damage — which can create electrocution risk for maintainers. Fungus can also pose as both a serious health risk and a liability to the maintainers of the electrical equipment in question. So can fungus ruin a wire’s current? You’d likely be better served asking “When fungus is present on wires, how can I get rid of it?”
Find Water Resistant Wires and Cables Through Gateway
Fungus exposure is a serious risk for people and projects alike, so be sure to take proper precautions and plan accordingly. Gateway Cable Company can help with our wide selection of military-grade wires and cables that resist the harmful effects of fungus exposure. Request a quote on your upcoming cable work today.