The Serious Dangers Of Dirty Grout!
Mould is a real, mostly unknown health hazard. Dirt that was washed off the tiles, collects in the grout joints and form a film of dry dirt and detergent. This film builds up with each wash and the grout becomes black, which is actually a film of grime that is an ideal breeding ground for mould. Not even regular mopping and cleaning can eliminate the dirt and mould that accumulates along your tiles and grout over time.
Mould/mildew hides harmful germs and bacteria. Growth of small organisms, particularly Toxigenic Fungi and Stachybotrys chartarum and Chaetomium globosum are found in mould. These germs and bacteria potentially cause respiratory problems like asthma, allergies, and infections and can have a damaging effect to the immune system of babies and the elderly.
Black mould has been linked to many health problems. Possible minor symptoms includes: Headaches, dizziness, red eyes, rashes and hives, lethargy (weakness characterized by a lack of vitality or energy) allergic reaction, wheezing, coughing, nasal stuffiness, throat irritation, eye irritation, or skin irritation.
More serious health problems that may be caused by black mould are: Memory loss, irregular blood pressure, damaged digestion, damaged respiratory, bronchitis, asthma and infertility. People who have allergies, respiratory disease, or any type of immune suppressing disease should be especially wary of this toxic mould.
OTHER dangers of untreated tiles include: SLIPPERY FLOORS AND STAIRS – The problem of slipping results in loss of life, physical disability, loss of productivity, legal and compensation costs and the cost to the community due to hospitalization. It is your responsibility to take precautions to prevent slipping accident on your premises. High-risk areas for slippery tiles include homes, facilities for the aged, shopping malls, foyers of office blocks, entrance halls to business premises, hospitals, changing rooms at sports facilities, rest rooms, abattoirs, food processing plants, laboratories etc. Efficient anti-slip treatment is necessary for slippery surfaces for wet as well as in dry conditions, especially on floors and stairs.