Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a combination of gases and odors emitted from many and different toxins and chemicals used in everyday products. Some are harmful by themselves, and can causes cancer. In addition, some can react with other gases and form other air pollutants after they are in the air.
Common examples of VOCs that may be present in our daily lives are: benzene, ethylene glycol, formaldehyde, methylene chloride, tetrachloroethylene, toluene, xylene, and 1,3-butadiene.
Where do VOCs come from?
VOCs can be found in the air indoors and outdoors. Some of these sources continue to produce VOCs when they are stored or transported. Some of the more familiar VOCs include benzene, formaldehyde and toluene.
Indoor sources:
-Building materials (paint, flooring, carped, varnished and finishes)
-Home & Personal Care Products (Cleaners and disinfectants, furniture, cosmetics and deodorants, fuel oil …)
-Activities: Smoking, dry-cleaned clothing, wood burning stoves art and crafts products …
Outdoor sources:
-Gasoline
-Industrial emissions
-Wood burning
-Oil and gas extraction and processing
Why are VOCs important?
Inhaling VOCs is the most dangerous means of exposure, as the chemicals pass through the membrane of the lungs and into the bloodstream. In fact, VOCs can cause serious health effects in both the short and long term such as :
Short term effect:
-Headache
-Nose, throat, eye inflammation
-Skin irritation
-Pneumonia, bronchitis
-Coughing, painful breathing
Long term effect:
-Affects the central nervous system (headache, anxiety)
-Cardiovascular diseases
-Respiratory diseases (asthma, cancer)
-Impacts on liver, spleen, blood
How to protect yourself from VOCs?
-Avoid or limit use of chemical products
-Add ventilation in case you uses chemical product.
