As we greet the day, open our curtains, and gather in our kitchens, sunlight might stream over countertops, appliances, or our favorite textiles. Yet, beneath the surface, an unseen concern persists – an invisible presence that silently permeates the air. Many design professionals are familiar with the concept and dangers of off-gassing, understanding the impact it can have on health and wellbeing. Most homeowners, however, are less likely to be aware, making it an important conversation to have as part of the design process.

What is off-gassing?

Off-gassing is when Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde, benzene and toluene are emitted into the air from materials and products such as building materials, furniture, flooring, paint, adhesives and household cleaners. It happens as these chemicals evaporate or release gasses from the surface of the material or product, introducing potentially harmful pollutants into the indoor environment. Off-gassing is typically an indoor air quality problem, where concentrations of VOCs are often ten times higher inside than outdoors.

What are the risks?

VOCs pose various health risks, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, respiratory irritation, and worsened asthma symptoms. Prolonged exposure to certain VOCs is associated with more severe health issues such as cancer and neurological damage. Additionally, off-gassing can diminish indoor air quality, especially in poorly ventilated areas, leading to the accumulation of harmful pollutants indoors and potential health concerns for occupants. Furthermore, some off-gassing chemicals contribute to outdoor air pollution, reacting with other pollutants to form ground-level ozone, which adversely affects air quality and ecosystems.

Who is most vulnerable?

Certain groups, including infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, may have heightened susceptibility to the effects of off-gassing. Developing fetuses and young children are more vulnerable to potential neurological damage resulting from exposure to specific chemicals. Additionally, individuals with allergies or chemical sensitivities may experience symptoms such as skin irritation, respiratory distress or allergic reactions. Pregnant women face risks as certain off-gassing chemicals can pass through the placenta, impacting fetal development and potentially leading to adverse birth outcomes and developmental issues in children. Individuals living in lower-income households may reside in older or poorly maintained housing with inadequate ventilation and higher levels of indoor air pollutants, including off-gassing chemicals. This can increase their exposure to harmful substances and exacerbate health risks.

Can you test for off-gassing within the home?

You can use indoor air quality monitoring devices or VOC detectors to measure the concentration of VOCs in the air. These devices can provide real-time or continuous monitoring of indoor air pollutants and help identify elevated levels of off-gassing chemicals. If you suspect off-gassing from specific materials or products in the home, consider sending samples to a laboratory for analysis. Material testing can help identify the presence of VOCs and quantify their emissions, providing valuable information about potential health risks.

How can you reduce the risk of off-gassing?

There are several ways of mitigating the risks associated with off-gassing. Careful consideration of products is the initial step, with a preference for natural materials. Vinyl, plywood and laminate should be avoided, for example, as should synthetic substances containing polyurethane or memory foam. Vintage furniture and décor items have typically undergone years of off-gassing, meaning they have already released most of their VOCs. By upcycling these pieces, you can avoid introducing new materials with high levels of off-gassing into the home environment. Look out for materials labeled ‘low VOC’, ‘ULEF’ (ultra-low emitting formaldehyde) or ‘NAF’ (no added formaldehyde), particularly with regards to wood. Lastly, seek out Greenguard-certified products to ensure optimal indoor air quality.

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