By Simon-Cheekiong Chin, Safety Advisor Program Manager
As temperatures rise, so do the challenges of maintaining laboratory cold rooms. These critical storage environments—used to preserve biological samples, reagents, and pharmaceuticals—are especially vulnerable during the summer months. Each time a cold room door is opened, humid air enters and rapidly condenses on cold surfaces such as walls, ceilings, shelving, and door seals. This increase in moisture can quickly lead to mold growth if not properly managed.
Strengthening moisture control is a key preventive measure during this period. Laboratory personnel should minimize the frequency and duration of door openings and ensure that door seals are intact, tight, and undamaged to prevent the intrusion of humid air. Additionally, higher ambient temperatures may reduce the efficiency of refrigeration systems, making routine monitoring even more important.
Cold room temperature and humidity levels should be checked daily. Any unusual fluctuations should be reported immediately to Facilities at 212-746-2288. Laboratory personnel should also remain alert for early signs of mold, such as musty odors or visible discoloration, and contact Environmental Health and Safety for assistance if concerns arise.
To further reduce the risk of mold growth, eliminate sources of moisture by promptly removing wet packaging or spills, cleaning any condensation or standing water, and transitioning from cardboard boxes to plastic storage containers.
Cold rooms are vital to lab operations—but in the summer, they require extra attention. By proactively managing moisture, monitoring environmental conditions, and maintaining proper storage and cleaning practices, labs can significantly reduce the risk of mold growth. A few simple steps can make a big difference in protecting your samples, your research, and your work environment.
