OSHA Inspection: V.I. GOV'T PERSONNEL OFFICE

Issued

May 14, 1990

Abate by

May 17, 1990

General-duty citation text

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: The
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employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were
free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death
or serious physical harm to employees, in that employees were exposed to
pathogenic fungi:
Employees who worked in the Personnel Office second floor were
exposed to fungi growth on walls, desk counters, file cabinets and
vents. These fungi include species of Mucor, Penicillum and
Aspergillus. Said fungi pathogenic effects are as follows:
Rhinitis, Bronchitis, Hypergensitivity response to inhaled particles
containing these living organisms (symptoms include: headache, fever,
malaise, chills, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, mucous
membrane irritation and inflammation, and muscle aches) and allergy
Mucor, Aspergillus and Penicillum also cause Mucormycosis,
Aspergillosis, Peniccillosis, Myocarditis and Otomycosis.
One feasible and acceptable abatement method is to clean all surface
areas (wall, desk top, counter, file cabinets, vents, etc.) with
household detergent that kill mold and mildew. Household spray
disinfectant should be sprayed in room at least once a week. The room
should be well ventillated when the area is being cleaned and sprayed.
In addition, air condition filters should be cleaned regularly to
prevent dirt build up and the condensate drain pans should also be
examined for condensed water. If water is present, it should be removed
from the condensate drain immediately.