BLC is currently seeing a resurgence in the number of mould issues being handled by our problem solving department.
Mould growth on leather and leather products is a significant issue, however it is preventable.
Packing and shipping are areas where mould growth is common due to environmental conditions, which can cycle between hot and cold. BLC can advise best practice for packaging and shipping including the use of mould prevention products and packaging materials.
A serious concern with mould is that certain types can be toxic and pose a health risk to people who come into contact with the spores. Knowing which species of mould you are dealing with is important in understanding how to deal with the problem and it is vital that mouldy goods are handled with care.
BLC carries out mould inspection and testing for mould using both light and high magnification scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyse the mould, allowing the species to be identified.
Fungicide is often added to leather during the processing to help prevent mould growth. Analysis can be conducted to determine the level of fungicide within the material. This is important not only to ensure that the levels are effective to prevent growth, but also to ensure that the material is safe for operatives and the end user.
A range of mould testing can be carried out to address mould issues with leather and leather products, with microscopy being used to determine:
- the presence of mould spores or hyphae within the fibre structure and the likely origin of the mould
- if contamination is present in the raw material and/or finished leather
- to what extent the fibre structure has been affected by contamination
- when the mould contamination occurred for purpose of arbitration
Carrying out mould spore challenge testing, it is also possible to assess the potential for mould growth to occur if the correct conditions prevail.
To help prevent the occurrence of mould problems BLC can conduct a mould audit at manufacturing facilities to investigate the conditions under which products are manufactured, stored and packed.
A mould audit involves measuring and assessing the moisture content and humidity of the manufacturing plant, monitoring of packaging materials, general housekeeping and mould management. At the end of the process recommendations for on-going mould management and key action points will be provided.
An understanding of mould, the causes and prevention, managing the various issues and the kind of help and support available could be key to avoiding damaged products, late deliveries, lost sales and reduced profits.
BLC delivers regular mould in leather training courses in the UK, USA and Hong Kong and can help you to avoid many of the pitfalls associated with mould in your leather and leather products.
BLC members receive 30% discount on all testing and problem solving.
For advice and support on all your mould related issues including leather, leather product, textile, synthetic and other materials, please contact BLC on info@blcleathertech.com.
