What are Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)?

Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, are gases that come from certain solids or liquids. They include a mix of chemicals, some of which can negatively impact health both in the short and long term. You’ll often find that the levels of many VOCs are much higher indoors—sometimes up to ten times more—compared to outside. There are thousands of products that can release these compounds. Organic chemicals are commonly found in many household items. For instance, paints, varnishes, and waxes all have organic solvents, and so do various cleaning supplies, disinfectants, cosmetics, degreasers, and even hobby materials. Fuels also consist of organic chemicals. These products can emit organic compounds while you’re using them and even when they’re just sitting around.

The EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency)’s Office of Research and Development conducted the “Total Exposure Assessment Methodology (TEAM) Study” back in 1985, which included four volumes. They discovered that around a dozen common organic pollutants were found at levels 2 to 5 times higher indoors compared to outdoors, no matter if the homes were in rural or industrial zones. The TEAM studies showed that when people use products with organic chemicals, they can end up exposing themselves and others to significantly high levels of pollutants, and these elevated concentrations can linger in the air long after the activity has stopped.

Where do VOCs come from?

Household products, including: candles and incense, paints, air fresheners, paint strippers and other solvents, wood preservatives, aerosol sprays, cleansers and disinfectants, moth repellents and air fresheners, stored fuels and automotive products, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothing, and pesticide.

Other products, including: building materials and furnishings, office equipment such as copiers and printers, correction fluids and carbonless copy paper, graphics and craft materials including glues and adhesives, permanent markers and photographic solutions.

How do VOCs affect your health?

VOCs can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat, leading to headaches, coordination issues, and nausea. They can also harm your liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Plus, some organic compounds in VOCs might cause cancer in animals, and some are thought to be cancer-causing in humans too.

Some common signs that you might be exposed to VOCs are eye irritation, discomfort in your nose and throat, headaches, skin allergies, trouble breathing, lower levels of serum cholinesterase, nausea, vomiting, nosebleeds, tiredness, and dizziness.

Organic chemicals can have a wide range of health impacts, from super toxic to completely harmless. Just like with other pollutants, how they affect you really depends on how much you’re exposed to and for how long. Some folks have reported immediate symptoms after being around certain organic compounds, like irritation in their eyes and respiratory system, headaches, dizziness, vision problems, and even memory issues.

Who is at greatest risk?

Children, seniors, pregnant people, and people with existing health conditions, such as asthma, chronic pulmonary disease or bronchitis.

How to reduce exposure to VOCs?

Cut down on scented products like plug-in or aerosol air fresheners.

Boosting airflow is key! Whenever you can, turn on that range hood exhaust fan with an outside vent while cooking. Make sure to ventilate properly when using combustion appliances like fireplaces, wood stoves, gas stoves, and furnaces. Opt for low-emission products when you can; some composite woods, paints, varnishes, and cleaning supplies release fewer VOCs than others. Store your products correctly and make sure there’s a good seal around any doors that lead to an attached garage. When using cleaning products, boost that ventilation! Always read and follow the label instructions.

For more resources: Volatile Organic Compounds’ Impact on Indoor Air Quality | US EPA; Volatile organic compounds – Canada.ca