Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a large group of carbon-based chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. VOCs are emitted by a wide array of products numbering in the thousands.

Some common examples include:

• Acetone
• Benzene
• Ethylene glycol
• Formaldehyde
• Methylene chloride
• Perchloroethylene
• Toluene
• Xylene
• 1,3-butadiene

The EPA found levels of about a dozen common organic pollutants to be 2 to 5 times higher inside homes than outside, regardless of whether the homes were located in rural or highly industrial areas. However, during certain activities (such as paint stripping) levels may be 1,000x background outdoor levels.

Sources for VOCs in your home can be easily split into three categories; building materials, home and personal care products, and behaviors.

VOC concentrations in indoor air depend on many factors, here’s a few simple ways to minimise risks;

• Do not store opened containers of unused paints and similar materials within the home.
• Use household products according to manufacturer’s directions.
• Never mix household care products unless directed on the label.
• Increase ventilation when using products that emit VOCs.

Additional Information on common household products that cause measureable levels of VOCs in indoor air can be found in the National Institutes of Health Household Products Database.