ASSESSMENT OF MOULD GROWTH TOWARDS OFFICE ENVIRONMENT QUALITY AT OFFICE BLOCK (UTP)

In the early days of abundant resources and minimal development pressures, there was only little attention given to growing environmental concerns over here in Malaysia. Awareness only increased after the haze episodes in Southeast Asia in 1983,1984, 1991, 1994 and 1997 respectively which imposed threats to the environmental management of Malaysia. Air pollution can be divided into two categories, which involves both indoor and outdoor contamination of environment. On the other hand, as for the indoor air quality, it could be defined as building that can be compromised by microbial contaminants which are caused by mold and bacteria's, chemicals such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde, allergens, or any mass or energy stressor which can induce health effects. Although a lot of researches have been done on the causes and impacts of air quality, but it was merely focused on outdoor air quality only. Therefore, concern about indoor air quality should be increased especially on the source of mold since it contributes to most of the health effects and symptoms. Moulds can be found almost everywhere whereby they can grow on virtually any organic substance, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. This study was prompted by concerns that both lecture rooms and office rooms at University Technology PETRONAS might not provide healthful environment for students or lecturers