What are VOCs?

What are Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)?

Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are organic chemical compounds emitted from solids or liquids in the form of gases. These gases have been found to have a variety of short- and long-term negative health effects. 

Are VOCs Harmful?

VOCs affect everyone. Concentrations of VOCs are much higher indoors (up to ten times higher) than outdoor environments. Items that produce VOCs include household products like paints, wax, varnishes, cleaning and cosmetic products, and different types of fuels. Even furniture, carpet, and other household features emit some level of VOCs. Ultimately, there are thousands of different sources of VOCs. The dangerous compounds can be released while using them and also while stored. The Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Research and Development’s “Total Exposure Assessment Methodology (TEAM) Study” found home VOCs levels to be 2 to 5 times higher inside than outside, no matter where the home was located (rural vs. highly industrial). The study also found that exposure to VOCs continues long after someone uses a product. The EPA states that levels are consistently 10 times higher inside than outdoors. 

Health Effects of VOCs

Possible adverse health effects include the following, but are not limited to: respiratory tract irritation, headaches, fatigue, nausea, affected brain functioning, skin irritation, allergies, dyspnea, eye irritation, organ damage, cancer, and even death. 

Despite the clear and present danger to our inside air, the challenge is that federally enforceable standards for non-industrial settings do not currently exist, making it difficult for people to know what is recommended for schools, commercial facilities and homes. 

How to Reduce VOCs

Because monitoring the levels of VOCs would require constant observation, there are several steps that you can take to minimize and eliminate the exposure to VOCs inside. The most effective way to reduce your exposure to VOCs would be through the installation of an air purifying technology that removes VOCs. 

Air Purifiers for VOCs

This is where in-space air purifiers that are equipped with carbon filtration and bipolar ionization, like ISO-Aire can benefit a building’s occupants by treating VOCs and also germs. Our carbon purifier line is equipped with a 12” carbon filter and bipolar ionization to reduce VOCs. The purifiers also help to tackle germs and other air particulates with their MERV 9 pre-filter.