Brian Barton
Indoor air pollution is a serious issue that can have adverse effects on human health. The US EPA has identified several indoor pollutants, including combustion byproducts such as carbon monoxide, environmental tobacco smoke, and particulate matter, as well as biological pollutants like dust mites, mold, pet dander, and pesticides. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as formaldehyde, are also common indoor pollutants. Inadequate ventilation, outdoor air pollution, and high temperature and humidity levels can all contribute to increased indoor pollutant concentrations. The health effects of indoor air pollutants can vary from immediate reactions such as eye irritation and headaches to long-term issues like respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer. It is important to be vigilant about potential sources of indoor air pollution and take steps to improve indoor air quality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Indoor pollution sources | Building materials, household cleaners, biological pollutants |
| Common indoor air pollutants | Radon, mold, pet dander, environmental tobacco smoke, dust mites, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, pesticides, lead, asbestos |
| Health effects | Irritation of eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, asthma, respiratory diseases, heart disease, cancer |
| Factors affecting indoor air quality | Air exchange rate, outdoor climate, weather conditions, occupant behavior, temperature, humidity, outdoor air pollution |
| Preventive measures | Proper ventilation, smoke-free environments, carbon monoxide alarms, ventilation of combustion appliances, testing and fixing radon levels, controlling moisture to prevent mold |
| Vulnerable populations | Infants, elderly, persons with chronic diseases, urban residents |
| Professional guidance | Discuss symptoms with a doctor or local health department, consult an allergist or occupational medicine specialist, contact National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) or Occupational Safety and Health Administration |
| EPA resources | Building Air Quality: A Guide for Building Owners and Facility Managers, The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality, Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health Professionals |
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What You'll Learn
Carbon monoxide, tobacco smoke, and other combustion byproducts
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and poisonous gas that is formed by both natural processes and human activity. It is released into the environment and the human body and is present both indoors and outdoors. Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of the combustion of any fuel, such as wood, natural gas, kerosene, charcoal, or tobacco. Incomplete combustion of tobacco in cigarettes can lead to large quantities of carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke. Water pipes are also a major source of carbon monoxide exposure, with more than 90% of the carbon monoxide in water pipe vapours coming from the charcoal and coal used to heat the tobacco.
Carbon monoxide interferes with oxygen delivery in the body. At high concentrations, it can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, queasiness, and confusion with the flu or food poisoning. Prolonged exposure to elevated levels of carbon monoxide can lead to brain and heart damage and even death. Fetuses, infants, the elderly, and people with anemia or a history of heart or respiratory disease are especially vulnerable to the toxic effects of carbon monoxide.
Tobacco smoke is a significant indoor air pollutant, classified as an environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) or secondhand smoke. ETS is a complex mixture of gases and particles that includes carbon monoxide, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and formaldehyde, among over 7,000 other chemicals. Exposure to ETS is linked to various adverse health effects, including respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer. Young children, people with asthma, and those with heart or lung disease are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of ETS.
Other combustion byproducts that contribute to indoor air pollution include nitrogen dioxide, fine and ultrafine particles, and formaldehyde. Nitrogen dioxide is a reddish-brown gas with an irritating odour that irritates the mucous membranes in the eyes, nose, and throat and causes shortness of breath at high concentrations. Fine particulate matter, such as PM2.5, is associated with increased health risks, especially for vulnerable individuals.
To mitigate the risks associated with carbon monoxide, tobacco smoke, and other combustion byproducts, several measures can be implemented. Proper ventilation is crucial, as inadequate ventilation can increase indoor pollutant levels. Exhaust fans and stove hoods with outdoor vents can help reduce exposure to pollutants during cooking. Regular maintenance and proper adjustment of combustion appliances, such as furnaces and gas stoves, are essential to prevent corrosion, leaks, and the release of combustion gases, including carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide detectors or alarms are required by law in dwellings with fuel-type appliances or attached garages and in certain care facilities.
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Volatile organic compounds, including formaldehyde
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. VOCs are emitted by thousands of products, including paints, varnishes, wax, cleaning products, disinfectants, cosmetics, degreasers, and hobby products. Fuels are also made up of organic chemicals. These products can release organic compounds while in use and, to a lesser degree, when stored.
Formaldehyde is one of the best-known VOCs and is one of the few indoor air pollutants that can be readily measured. It is a chemical used in the production of adhesives, bonding agents, and solvents. It is commonly found in pressed-wood products (plywood, particle board, paneling), foam insulation, wallpaper, paints, some synthetic fabrics, cosmetics and personal products. Formaldehyde is also a byproduct of combustion and is produced when burning natural gas, kerosene, gasoline, wood, or tobacco. Automobile exhaust and tobacco smoking are common sources of formaldehyde in indoor environments.
Short-term exposure to formaldehyde may result in immediate symptoms, including eye, nose, and throat irritation, dizziness, and nausea. Long-term exposure to formaldehyde may cause some types of cancer. To minimize exposure to formaldehyde, it is important to ensure that combustion sources are properly maintained and vented outdoors, avoid smoking indoors, and examine your environment for potential sources of formaldehyde.
To reduce exposure to VOCs in general, it is recommended to minimize the use of VOC-containing products and materials, opt for low-VOC options when available, and ensure good ventilation in the home by regularly opening windows and using exhaust fans when cooking or using VOC-emitting products. Portable air cleaners equipped with HEPA and activated carbon filters can also help neutralize VOCs from the indoor air.
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Radon, mould, and other biological pollutants
Radon is a naturally occurring, colourless and odourless radioactive noble gas. It is formed by the decay of radium in rocks and soil, and it can enter buildings through cracks or gaps in structures. Radon is a known human carcinogen and is the second leading cause of lung cancer. There is no known safe threshold for radon exposure, as even low levels of exposure can increase the risk of lung cancer.
Mould is another common indoor pollutant. It can be found in buildings with poor ventilation or high moisture levels. Mould can cause various health issues, including allergic reactions and respiratory problems. To prevent mould growth, it is important to control moisture levels and ensure proper ventilation in indoor spaces.
In addition to radon and mould, other biological pollutants can also impact indoor air quality. These include dust mites, pet dander, and cockroach allergens, which can trigger asthma attacks and cause allergic reactions. To improve indoor air quality and reduce the impact of these biological pollutants, it is recommended to maintain a clean and well-ventilated environment, with proper waste management and pest control practices in place.
The effects of indoor air pollutants on human health can vary. Some people may experience immediate reactions, such as eye and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. For others, the effects may take years to manifest, with more severe consequences such as respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer. It is important to be vigilant about potential sources of indoor air pollution and take proactive measures to improve air quality, even if symptoms are not immediately noticeable.
To summarise, radon, mould, and other biological pollutants can have significant impacts on indoor air quality and human health. By understanding the sources and potential consequences of these pollutants, individuals can take necessary precautions to mitigate their exposure and improve the air they breathe in their homes and other indoor spaces.
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Pesticides, lead, and other chemical pollutants
Pesticides contain both active and inert ingredients that can be organic compounds, adding to the levels of airborne organics inside homes. While the specific pesticide concentrations necessary to produce health effects are not yet fully understood, exposure to high levels of certain pesticides, such as cyclodiene pesticides, has been linked to various symptoms and potential long-term damage to the liver, central nervous system, and an increased risk of cancer. To mitigate the risks associated with pesticides, the EPA recommends increasing ventilation when using them indoors, taking plants and pets outdoors when applying treatments, and opting for non-chemical methods of pest control whenever possible.
Lead is another critical indoor pollutant identified by the EPA. Lead can be found in various sources within buildings, such as paint, plumbing pipes, and contaminated dust. Older buildings, particularly those constructed before 1978, may contain lead-based paint, which can chip, peel, or deteriorate over time, releasing lead particles into the air. Lead can also be found in drinking water if the plumbing system contains lead pipes or fixtures. Young children are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead exposure, which can cause behavioural and learning problems, lower IQ, hearing loss, and impaired growth.
In addition to pesticides and lead, other chemical pollutants contribute to indoor air quality issues. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs), released from various products and materials, are common indoor pollutants. These compounds can have short-term and long-term health effects, including eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, dizziness, and an increased risk of respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer. Formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen, is another chemical pollutant that can be released from certain building materials and household products.
To improve indoor air quality and reduce the impact of chemical pollutants, the EPA recommends proper ventilation, the use of non-toxic cleaning and personal care products, and the control of moisture to prevent mold growth. Additionally, regular cleaning and maintenance of indoor spaces can help reduce the presence of pollutants and improve overall air quality.
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Particulate matter, dust, and allergens
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identifies particulate matter (PM), dust, and allergens as significant indoor pollutants. These pollutants can have adverse effects on human health, especially for vulnerable individuals such as children, older adults, and people with respiratory conditions.
Particulate Matter (PM)
Particulate matter refers to a complex mixture of solid and/or liquid particles suspended in the air. These particles can vary in size, shape, and composition. The EPA is particularly concerned about particles that are 10 micrometers in diameter or smaller (PM10 and PM2.5), as they can be inhaled into the deepest parts of the lungs and cause serious health issues. PM10 particles are larger and tend to get trapped in the nose or throat, while PM2.5 particles are so small that they can penetrate deep into the respiratory system.
Sources of indoor PM include outdoor air infiltration, indoor combustion sources (such as tobacco smoke, cooking appliances, and fireplaces), chemical reactions from cleaning products, and indoor activities like cooking and burning candles or incense. Inadequate ventilation can also increase indoor PM levels by not adequately diluting emissions and carrying pollutants out of the indoor environment.
Dust
Dust is another common indoor pollutant. It can contain biological contaminants such as pollen, mold spores, pet dander, dust mites, and cockroach droppings. Walking, sweeping, dusting, and vacuuming can stir dust into the air, increasing exposure. Water or moisture problems can also lead to mold growth, which is considered a type of dust contaminant.
Allergens
Allergens are substances that can trigger an allergic reaction in certain individuals. Many of the particles found in indoor dust, such as pollen, mold spores, and pet dander, are known allergens. Additionally, volatile chemicals from outdoor sources like contaminated groundwater or soil can enter buildings and become airborne when building occupants use water for activities like showering or cooking.
Health Effects
Exposure to indoor pollutants like PM, dust, and allergens can have immediate and long-term health consequences. Immediate effects may include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. For asthmatics, exposure to these pollutants can trigger asthma attacks and worsen symptoms.
Long-term exposure to indoor pollutants has been linked to more severe health issues, including respiratory diseases, heart disease, and even cancer. Certain vulnerable populations, such as children, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, are more susceptible to the adverse effects of indoor pollution.
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Frequently asked questions
Health effects from indoor pollutants may be experienced soon after exposure or years later. Some immediate effects include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. The lung is the most common site of injury by airborne pollutants, and other acute effects may include non-respiratory signs and symptoms.
Some common indoor pollutants include radon, mold, pet dander, dust mites, and combustion byproducts such as carbon monoxide.
Indoor pollution sources can be from within or outside a building. Some indoor sources include tobacco smoke, wood and coal heating appliances, cleaning supplies, paints, and building materials. Outdoor sources include contaminated ground water or soil, and outdoor air pollution.
If you think your symptoms may be related to your home environment, discuss them with your doctor or local health department. Pay attention to when and where your symptoms occur—if they fade or go away when you are away from a particular area, this could indicate an indoor pollution source.
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