Indoor air pollution

 

Indoor air pollution

The air inside our homes and workplaces can often be more polluted than the air outside, posing significant health risks such as fatigue, headaches, allergic reactions, dizziness, coughing and sneezing. This is particularly common in newly renovated homes and buildings, homes with poor ventilation and damp walls, and homes with new furniture and accessories. Poor indoor air quality is also a major cause of frequent colds and other common illnesses.

Common contributors to indoor air pollution include:

• The use of surfaces, materials and finishes that outgas pollutants-most commonly, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Examples include glues, binders, paints, polyurethane finishes for benches and floors, carpets, some wall panelling (especially plywood and fibreboards), furniture and treated textiles. 
• The use of personal body products, home cleaners and washing detergents, especially those that contain chemicals and other toxins that can become airborne, can have negative effects on our nervous system, and cause allergies.
• Biological sources such as fungi, mould and pests.
• Airborne particulates from dusty exterior environments, wood stoves, kitchen cooking and tobacco smoke.
• Carbon monoxide from un-flued gas heaters, wood fires, gas water heaters, automobile fumes from attached garages, and tobacco smoke.