What Are VOCs and Where Do They Come From?
Indoor air can contain pollutants from sources we encounter every day. One important group is volatile organic compounds, or VOCs.
What Are VOCs?
VOCs are chemicals that can evaporate into the air from certain products and materials. Indoors, they may be released while a product is being used or, in some cases, continue to be emitted from materials and furnishings over time.
Understanding potential VOC sources is an important part of evaluating and managing indoor air quality.
Where Do VOCs Come From?
VOCs can come from a wide variety of products and materials commonly found in homes, schools, offices, and other buildings, including:
- Paints, coatings, adhesives, and solvents
- Cleaning and disinfecting products
- Air fresheners, fragrances, and personal care products
- Furniture and cabinetry
- Flooring and carpets
- Building and renovation materials
- Stored fuels, chemicals, and hobby products
Renovation activities may temporarily introduce additional VOC sources as new paints, flooring, adhesives, furnishings, and other materials are brought into a building.
How Can VOC Exposure Be Reduced?
Managing VOCs begins with understanding and controlling their sources. Building occupants and managers can consider increasing ventilation when appropriate, following manufacturer instructions, properly storing chemicals, and selecting lower-emitting products when practical.
Because indoor environments vary, the presence of an odor does not necessarily tell you which VOCs are present or at what concentration.
When Should You Consider an IAQ Professional?
If there are persistent odors, occupant concerns, or questions about potential indoor pollutant sources, an indoor air quality professional can help evaluate the building, identify possible sources, and determine whether additional investigation or testing is appropriate.
Learning where indoor pollutants come from is an important first step toward creating healthier indoor environments.
Looking for more information about indoor air quality? Visit IAQA for educational resources and information from the indoor air quality industry.
