The mining guidelines are clear when it comes to exposure standards for respirable hazards such as dust or silica, but limits for mould are a bit more complicated.

Mould is common in everyday life, found in leftovers at the back of the fridge, in the grout of a share-house shower, and even floating in the air we breathe. Just as mould can easily be found around the house, it can also be seen (or unseen) at mine sites across Australia.

Anywhere there is moisture, there is the potential for mould. Many types of mould are harmless, but there are also toxic species that make vigilance from mining companies especially important.

The Australian Institute for Occupational Hygienists (AIOH) is working to draw more attention to the challenges of mould on mine sites and what companies can do to limit exposure to workers. AIOH certified occupational hygienist Ash Boss-Handley said that because there are no official exposure limits for mould, it’s up to experts to determine the level of risk.

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