UNDERSTANDING VOC’S

Volatile organic compounds are found in products ranging from paints, coatings, cleaning fluids and deodorants. VOC’s are a major factor in ozone, an air pollutant which has proven to be a health hazard.

While the upper ozone layer protects us from the suns’ ultraviolet rays, ground level ozone is a reactive gas that can affect the function and tissue of our lung and immune system.

Ozone is formed in the atmosphere through a photochemical process and is difficult to regulate. VOC’s in the air react with oxides of nitrogen and sunlight to form ozone. If VOC’s are controlled the ozone levels are minimized.

Most VOC’s are generated inside buildings and to prevent their escape we try to limit their existence. However, the existence of these VOC’s inside the building and the effect on human occupants cannot be ignored. Reducing VOC’s by regular cleaning, maintenance and prevention can help, although choosing a product with low or VOC content free can be confusing. If the product boasts a low VOC content and then requires ten times as much application to do the job, are we really lowering the VOC emissions?

IAQ EDUCATION

  • Indoor air quality can be compromised by a number of variables. Some tips follow which can enhance your IAQ:

  • maintain a cooling system

  • fix roof/pipe leaks ASAP

  • insulate to prevent condensation

  • reduce the humidity in your facility

  • use high-filtration vacuum bags

  • switch to paints, cleaners and other products with a low VOC level

  • upgrade and/or repair ventilation equipment, particularly filters and fans

  • levels for VOC emissions should be determined by government regulations

  • employ an IAQ monitor to measure concentrations of inorganic gases, such as CO2 and sulfur dioxide

  • conduct regular IAQ inspections