Volatile Organic Compounds
From Floor Coverings
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Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC)
Volatile Organic Compounds have been in the media and on our mind a lot, these days. VOCs are a large group of chemicals (carbon-based) that may easily evaporate at room temperature. People can smell high levels of some VOCs, but on the other hand, some of the chemicals have no odor, which can get tricky. Many thousands of these chemicals exist amongst us, so what can we do to try and keep ourselves safe? Knowledge about them helps.
Is formaldehyde a VOC?
A few common examples of VOCs are benzene, acetone (a particularly smelly one), formaldehyde (not only used in laboratories) and toluene. Products that release VOCs in our homes include paint, upholstery fabrics, vinyl floors and carpets. Products we use on ourselves or in our home include air fresheners, cosmetics, gasoline and vehicle exhaust (from a car idling in a garage). Things we do or use that create VOC emissions are hobbies, photocopiers, smoking, drycleaning and woodburning fireplaces. Indoors, levels of VOCs are two to five times higher than outdoors. Ventilation and air flow and amount of VOCs in a product, affect the levels found inside a house. Health risks depend on how much is breathed in, how much is in the air, and how long a person is exposed to the VOCs.
If I have asthma are VOC's bad for me?
People who suffer from asthma may feel the symptoms of VOC exposure worse than others, as do people with chemical sensitivities. Exposure to VOCs can cause nausea and vomiting, eye and throat irritation and dizziness. Chronic and long term exposure to high levels can cause liver damage, nervous system damage, kidney damage and cancer. Try limiting your exposure to VOCs where possible. Some other serious medical conditions have similar symptoms to VOC exposure. The elderly, children, chemically sensitive individuals and those with asthma are more likely to be affected by VOC exposure. Conduct an examination of your home for possible VOC emitters. If it's smelly and a manufactured wood product, then it could be emitting VOCs.
Is VOC a gas?
Remove offending products when you can, seal chemicals into containers, and remove unused chemicals from your home. Always wash new clothes, and slipcovers or cushions if possible. Dispose of unused chemicals or old ones at a hazardous waste removal day at the local landfill. If you are purchasing new items, consider floor models that have been around a while and therefore have off-gassed in the store. Solid wood items with low emitting finishes can also be considered. Buy new products that are environmentally friendly (low or no VOCs). Sometimes wood composite products have used non-toxic sealants to limit VOC gases. Ventilation and climate control may reduce the reduce exposure if you simply cannot remove the offending objects or substances. Let the fresh air flow in and through your house as often as you can. Perhaps most importantly, be aware and armed with knowledge about VOCs and their effect on humans.
