Controlling Indoor Air Pollution: Strategies For Healthier Breathing

Indoor air pollution is a serious health hazard, causing approximately 3.2 million deaths globally each year, according to the World Health Organization. It is a particular problem in developing countries, where solid fuels are burned indoors for cooking and heating, and in energy-efficient homes, which tend to be relatively airtight. As people spend most of their time indoors, it is important to take steps to control indoor air pollution and improve indoor air quality. This can be achieved through various means, including increasing ventilation by opening windows and using exhaust fans, using air purifiers and filters, reducing the use of certain products, and eliminating or controlling sources of pollution.

Ventilation and natural air movement through open windows and doors

Ventilation is a key factor in promoting good air quality. Opening windows and doors is a simple yet effective way to increase natural ventilation and air movement, allowing fresh air to enter and indoor pollutants to leave. This is particularly important during activities that generate high levels of pollutants, such as cooking, painting, or welding. Natural ventilation can also help moderate indoor temperatures, especially in homes without air conditioning or during power outages.

However, it is important to be mindful of outdoor air quality. Avoid opening windows and doors if you live near busy highways, airports, or factories with high emissions, or if there is wildfire smoke nearby. In such cases, mechanical ventilation, such as exhaust fans, can be used to improve indoor air quality. These fans can be placed in areas with high levels of pollutants or moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens, to effectively draw out dirty air.

To further enhance natural ventilation, consider using ceiling fans in combination with open windows to improve airflow throughout the home. Window fans can also be used to pull air out of a room, especially after engaging in activities that produce pollutants. Additionally, advanced HVAC systems with energy-efficient heat recovery ventilators can be installed to bring in outdoor air while mitigating the costs of heating and cooling.

While natural ventilation through open windows and doors is beneficial, it should be paired with other measures. Source control, such as sealing asbestos-containing materials or adjusting gas stoves, is crucial to reducing indoor air pollution. Additionally, choosing safer building materials, furnishings, and cleaning products can minimize the release of pollutants. Overall, a multi-pronged approach that includes natural ventilation, source control, and careful product selection is essential for maintaining good indoor air quality.

Avoid using gas stoves to heat your home

Cooking with a gas stove can expose people to potentially dangerous nitrogen oxide gases (NOx) at levels twice as high as the limit set by the EPA for outdoor air. The health risks to those who use a gas stove or oven as a source of heat could far outweigh the potential risks to those who cook with gas.

Gas stoves and ovens are not designed to heat a home. They emit carbon monoxide (CO), a colourless and odourless gas that can be fatal at high levels. The gas is emitted any time combustion appliances, such as gas stoves, are used, but dangerous levels occur when these appliances are misused or misadjusted. Hundreds of people die in their sleep every year from carbon monoxide poisoning, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). At low concentrations, carbon monoxide can cause fatigue in healthy people and chest pain in people with heart disease. At higher concentrations, it can cause impaired vision and coordination, headaches, dizziness, confusion, and nausea.

The use of gas stoves for heating also increases the risk of fires. A fire marshal reported regularly seeing kitchen fires from unattended stoves or ovens, which heat up the surrounding cabinets or ceilings and catch them on fire. When cooking with a gas stove, you are close by and paying attention. However, when using it for heat, you are more likely to leave it unattended, increasing the risk of fire.

To avoid the dangers of using a gas stove to heat your home, consider the following:

• Electric space heaters with safety mechanisms to prevent fires and other hazards are a good option for small spaces.
• If you are a tenant, call 311 to request a heat inspection and get a reference number for your call.
• If you cannot afford heating, federal assistance is available. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides funding to reduce the risk of health and safety problems arising from unsafe heating and cooling practices and alleviate the cost of fuel.

Minimize carpeting and opt for hard-surface flooring

Carpeting can trap pollutants such as dust mites, pet dander, mould spores, and other dirt and dust. It can also trap smoke from cigarettes, which can be difficult to remove. Carpets can also act as "sinks" for the adsorption of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from other sources, such as paint, and re-emit them later. VOCs are gases that are released from building materials and finishes, such as flooring adhesives, paints, caulks, sealants, and cabinets. They can compromise air quality and negatively impact your health.

Hard-surface flooring is a better option to minimize the potential for VOCs to be absorbed and re-emitted. Hardwood floors, for example, are a good choice as they are durable and resistant to moisture. However, some hardwood floor finishes and adhesives can emit VOCs, so it is important to opt for low-VOC sealants and finishes and maintain regular cleaning routines to minimize dust. When selecting new flooring, look for products certified for low chemical emissions, such as GreenGuard, FloorScore, or the Carpet and Rug Institute's Green Label.

Vinyl is another option for hard-surface flooring that is durable and resistant to moisture, making it a good choice for kitchens and bathrooms. However, older vinyl flooring and some newer low-quality products can emit VOCs and phthalates, which have been linked to health risks. When choosing vinyl flooring, ensure it complies with strict standards for emissions to ensure better indoor air quality.

Tile is also a recommended hard-surface flooring option. Tiles made in the US, in particular, are a good choice as they are not typically associated with the same chemical and allergen air pollution as carpeting.

Overall, by choosing appropriate hard-surface flooring materials and maintaining them correctly, you can significantly reduce their potential negative impacts on air quality and your health.

Store chemicals, solvents, and pesticides away from living areas

Storing chemicals, solvents, and pesticides away from living areas is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality and protecting your health. These substances can release harmful chemicals, even when not in use, contributing to indoor air pollution. Here are some detailed instructions to help you effectively store these materials away from your living areas:

Firstly, identify a suitable storage location that is separate from your living areas, such as a garden shed, an outdoor storage unit, or a well-ventilated garage. Ensure this area is secure and not easily accessible to children or pets. If you must store these materials inside your home, choose a well-ventilated area, such as a balcony or a room with an exhaust fan, and ensure they are kept in a locked cabinet, out of the reach of children.

When storing chemicals, solvents, and pesticides, always keep them in their original containers with clear and visible labels. This is important for identifying the contents and following specific storage instructions. Additionally, it helps to prevent accidents, as the labels often include first aid information in case of accidental ingestion or exposure. Never transfer these substances to other containers, especially those that resemble food or drink containers, as this can lead to accidental ingestion.

Flammable liquids, such as solvents, should be stored away from any ignition sources, including furnaces, stoves, water heaters, or electrical appliances. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent spills and leaks. Additionally, avoid storing them in areas prone to flooding or where they might leak into water sources, such as drains or groundwater. Always follow local guidelines for the proper storage and disposal of these substances.

Pesticides require special attention when it comes to storage. Keep them away from food, animal feed, and medical supplies. Ensure they are tightly sealed and stored in a dry, well-ventilated area. Pesticides should also be kept out of the reach of children and pets. If you have leftover pesticides after application, properly dispose of them according to the instructions on the label or seek guidance from your local waste management authority.

By following these instructions, you can significantly reduce the impact of chemicals, solvents, and pesticides on your indoor air quality and create a safer living environment for you and your family.

Choose safer cleaning products

Keeping your home clean is one of the most important ways to ensure healthy indoor air quality. However, some cleaning products can contain harmful chemicals that can irritate the eyes and throat and cause headaches and other health issues. These chemicals, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can be released into the air and contribute to chronic respiratory problems, allergies, and asthma.

To reduce indoor air pollution, it is important to choose safer cleaning products. Here are some tips to help you make better choices:

• Read Labels Carefully: Before purchasing any cleaning product, take the time to read the label. Look for products that do not contain or have reduced amounts of VOCs, fragrances, irritants, and flammable ingredients. Avoid products with pine or citrus scents, as these can react with ozone to form harmful particles and formaldehyde.
• Choose Certified Products: Opt for cleaning agents that are certified as meeting the US EPA's Safer Product Standards, such as the US EPA's "Safer Choice" or GreenSeal. These certifications ensure that the products have been evaluated and approved for their safety and environmental impact.
• Simplify Your Cleaning Routine: You can often achieve effective cleaning with simple, natural ingredients like warm water and soap, especially at home. Baking soda is great for scrubbing, and a mixture of vinegar and water can be used to clean glass. You can also make your own cleaning products using basic ingredients found in your kitchen, like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
• Look for Soap-Based Cleaners: Soap-based cleaners contain plant oils that have been turned into soap. Look for ingredients like potassium cocoate, sodium cocoate, saponified coconut oil, sodium palmate, potassium palmate, and sustainable palm oil. These options are often safer and more eco-friendly.
• Choose Gentle Cleansing Ingredients: Ingredients with "glucoside" in their names are often gentle, plant-based cleansing agents. Examples include decyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, coco glucoside, and caprylyl/capryl glucoside. These alternatives can help you avoid harsh and potentially harmful chemicals.
• Minimize the Use of Air Fresheners: Air fresheners and strongly scented products can contribute to indoor air pollution. It is best to avoid or minimize their use. If you must use them, opt for natural fragrances and ensure proper ventilation during and after application.
• Avoid Cleaning Wipes: Most cleaning wipes are made of plastic, which can contribute to pollution in water, food, and the environment. Instead, opt for a damp reusable cloth with a small amount of all-purpose cleaner or water for dusting and cleaning.
• Dust Frequently: Indoor dust is a significant source of contaminants. Remember to dust regularly to reduce the presence of these contaminants in your home.
• Ventilate During and After Cleaning: Proper ventilation is crucial when using cleaning products. Open windows and doors, use exhaust fans, or consider running an air purifier to help remove any residual chemicals or pollutants from the air.

By following these guidelines and choosing safer cleaning products, you can significantly reduce indoor air pollution and create a healthier living environment for yourself and your family.

Frequently asked questions