Belize City, Belize
Mold, a type of fungus, is a problem that is especially prevalent in humid climates such as Belize. It can have a significant effect on IAQ and occupant health. At the former Embassy location in Belize City, mold was discovered on the exterior metal surfaces of a fan-coil air conditioning unit in an office in the chancery. High humidity caused condensation, resulting in mold growth on various surfaces in the room. Maintenance protocol did not include cleaning those surfaces, and the equipment manufacturer insisted that mold growth should not have occurred.
After researching the cause, it was determined that openings in the building envelope continually allowed humid air to enter the space, so the room remained humid despite air conditioning. Accessible affected surfaces were thoroughly cleaned. Materials that could not be cleaned of mold were replaced. To prevent recurrence of mold growth, walls were carefully sealed to ensure that the desired interior humidity levels would be maintained.
Figure 4: Optimum relative humidity levels (%) to minimize contaminants
