NIOSH Identifies Widespread Mold and Ventilation Failures Threatening Campus Air Quality

A 2025 NIOSH Health Hazard Evaluation of a Connecticut college uncovered long-standing indoor air quality problems caused by dampness, mold, and poor ventilation across multiple campus buildings. Investigators documented years of high indoor humidity, water damage, and condensation from aging ventilation systems, conditions that contributed to mold proliferation and employee health complaints ranging from respiratory irritation to neurological symptoms.

NIOSH inspections revealed widespread moisture intrusion, lack of vapor barriers in crawl spaces, and inadequate maintenance of HVAC systems, which failed to meet ventilation standards. Air sampling reports from 2011–2022 confirmed elevated indoor levels of fungal spores—including Aspergillus, Cladosporium, and Stachybotrys—often surpassing outdoor concentrations, further substantiating the college community’s concerns over indoor contamination and exposure risk.

The agency’s recommendations emphasized structural and procedural controls to restore healthy indoor environments. These include installing vapor barriers, improving drainage, ensuring HVAC maintenance meets ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022, and maintaining indoor humidity between 30–50%. NIOSH also urged the use of its Dampness and Mold Assessment Tool for continuous monitoring and early detection of moisture problems.

To sustain progress, NIOSH advised the college to enhance transparency and communication through an anonymous reporting system and a dedicated environmental quality team. The report concluded that effective moisture control, ventilation management, and open communication are essential for protecting occupant health and maintaining safe indoor air quality across educational facilities

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