If you're interested in a healthy, green living space, you've probably heard the term volatile organic compounds, or VOCs for short. Chances are you know it's not a good term, but most people don't really know anything else about these contaminants. Let me fill you in...
VOCs are chemicals that are emitted from solids and liquids. All solids and liquids that include VOCs also include a carbon chain, as any substance containing carbon is called an "organic". While some carbon-containing products are relatively inert, or stable, others are highly volatile, meaning they can break down into different substances and chemicals quite easily. VOCs also tend to accumulate in indoor spaces, therefore concentrations in indoor air can be 2 to 5 times as concentrated as to outdoors.
There are literally thousands of VOCs, and they're present products like
1) paints, solvents and aerosol sprays
2) moth repellants
3) household cleaners and disinfectants
4) pesticides
5) nail polish
6) vinyl shower curtains
7) air fresheners
8) fuels and auto products
9) building materials
10) adhesives and glues
11) drycleaning chemicals, and
12) furniture and carpets.
The EPA estimates that the concentrations of indoor VOCs resulting from paint stripping can reach as high as 1,000 times the concentration of the outdoor levels. And that is just one product!
VOCs and Your Health
While some VOCs have short-term health effects, others can do serious long-term damage. Some VOCs, such as benzene are well-known carcinogens, while others are "suspected" carcinogens.
In the short-term, common health issues include eye, nose and throat irritation, headache, nausea and temporary loss of coordination. The long-term health effects are downright threatening. VOCs can damage your liver, kidneys and central nervous system (i.e. your brain and your spine).
Common symptoms of VOC exposure also include an allergic skin reaction, shortness of breath, vomiting, nosebleeds and fatigue.
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