Note : All information on this page is directly taken from U.S Environmental Protection Agency Website
Sources of Indoor Air Pollution - Biological Pollutants
Biological contaminants include bacteria, molds, mildew, viruses, animal dander and cat saliva, house dust, mites,
cockroaches, and pollen.
There are many sources of these pollutants. Pollens originate from plants; viruses are transmitted by people and
animals; bacteria are carried by people, animals, and soil and plant debris; and household pets are sources of
saliva and animal dander. The protein in urine from rats and mice is a potent allergen.
When it dries, it can become airborne. Contaminated central air handling systems can become breeding grounds for
mold, mildew, and other sources of biological contaminants and can then distribute these contaminants
through the home.
Health Effects From Biological Contaminants
Reducing Exposure to Biological Contaminants
Read more at reference site : http://www.epa.gov/iaq/biologic.html
Sources of Indoor Air Pollution - Organic Gases (Volatile Organic Compounds - VOCs)
Organic chemicals are widely used as ingredients in household products. Paints, varnishes, and wax all contain organic solvents, as do many cleaning, disinfecting, cosmetic, degreasing, and hobby products. Fuels are made up of organic chemicals. All of these products can release organic compounds while you are using them, and, to some degree, when they are stored.
EPA's Total Exposure Assessment Methodology (TEAM) studies found levels of about a dozen common organic pollutants to be 2 to 5 times higher inside homes than outside, regardless of whether the homes were located in rural or highly industrial areas. Additional TEAM studies indicate that while people are using products containing organic chemicals, they can expose themselves and others to very high pollutant levels, and elevated concentrations can persist in the air long after the activity is completed.
Health Effects
Eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches, loss of coordination, nausea; damage to liver, kidney, and central nervous system. Some organics can cause cancer in animals; some are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans.
The ability of organic chemicals to cause health effects varies greatly from those that are highly toxic, to those with no known health effect. As with other pollutants, the extent and nature of the health effect will depend on many factors including level of exposure and length of time exposed. Eye and respiratory tract irritation, headaches, dizziness, visual disorders, and memory impairment are among the immediate symptoms that some people have experienced soon after exposure to some organics. At present, not much is known about what health effects occur from the levels of organics usually found in homes. Many organic compounds are known to cause cancer in animals; some are suspected of causing, or are known to cause, cancer in humans.
Levels in Homes
Studies have found that levels of several organics average 2 to 5 times higher indoors than outdoors. During and for several hours immediately after certain activities, such as paint stripping, levels may be 1,000 times background outdoor levels.
Steps to Reduce Exposure
- Use household products according to manufacturer's directions.
- Make sure you provide plenty of fresh air when using these products.
- Throw away unused or little-used containers safely; buy in quantities that you will use soon.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Never mix household care products unless directed on the label.
Read more at reference site : http://www.epa.gov/iaq/biologic.html
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