What Causes Indoor Air Quality Problems?

August 5, 2018

Problems with indoor air quality arise when pollutants contaminate the air inside our homes, workplaces, and other enclosed spaces. Contrary to popular belief, indoor air pollution can be more dangerous than outdoor pollution, especially since indoor spaces tend to trap contaminants and limit ventilation. These pollutants can cause a wide range of health issues—from short-term symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and eye irritation to long-term respiratory illnesses, allergies, and other chronic conditions. Common Indoor Air Pollutants and Their Health Effects Indoor air can harbor a wide range of harmful pollutants—many of which come from everyday household items and activities. These substances may be invisible or odorless, but they can have serious health effects when exposure is prolonged or concentrated in poorly ventilated environments. Below are some of the most common indoor air pollutants, their sources, and the risks they pose to your health: 1. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Sources: Paints Varnishes Cleaning products Building materials Glue and adhesives Office equipment Health Effects: Headaches Nausea Dizziness Eye, nose, and throat irritation 2. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Sources: Gas-burning appliances (e.g., furnaces, stoves) Cigarettes Vehicle exhaust in attached garages Description:An odorless, colorless gas that is highly toxic even at low concentrations. Health Effects: Nausea...

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Why Are Indoor Air Quality Audits Important?

May 30, 2018

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the indoor air quality is an important factor in the human health. One of the best ways you can be environmentally conscious is by creating a clean healthy environment in your own home. Contrary to what you can imagine, the air inside our homes is more polluted than the outside. As such, indoor air quality audit is important. We discuss the significance of indoor air quality testing; To Ensure a Constant Flow of Fresh AirThe only way to ensure that your home is as comfortable as possible and that you’ve kept the health-threatening pollutants at bay is by ensuring there’s an uninterrupted flow of fresh air. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can be a result of several products that include new carpeting, cleaners, paints, and furniture. The smell of VOCs can last several days to a few weeks and can cause short-term symptoms that include headaches and nausea. Carbon monoxide from furnaces, gas stoves and fireplaces is also another risk to the fresh flow of air. Although CO is invisible, the gas is deadly if it accumulates to dangerous levels. An air quality test should reveal the presence or accumulation of VOCs,...

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