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Issues With Rot in Wood Beams in Food Processing Areas

In food processing facilities where food production and packaging takes place, wood is not recommended for a building material. Structures that use wood beams require increased maintenance and observation to prevent issues related to rotting.

  1. Insects and Animal Infestations

    • As wood rots, cracks and holes develop. Insects and small animals come in from the outside environment to the food processing area. Contamination occurs through animal feces, molting insects and hungry specimen that work their way into the food bins.

    Growth of Mold and Mildew

    • Rotting wood often indicates an infestation of mold and mildew. This situation can cause airborne spores of mold that will infect the food processing area. Certain types of mold left untreated are even fatal to humans. Contamination of food by molds causes illness and serious health conditions on a mass scale when the infected product is passed on to consumers.

    Lack of Structural Support

    • Beams are structural necessities used to frame of a building. When wood beams of a food processing area begin to rot, the structural integrity is compromised. The roof loses support or walls cave in when the wood beams are weakened from rotting.

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