Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

• The most diverse group of indoor air pollutants
  • Released by everything from plastics, oils to perfumes and paints
    • Ex. formaldehyde, which leaks from pressed wood and insulation, irritates mucous membranes and induces skin allergies
    • Ex. pesticides, which are found indoors more often than outdoors due to seepage is also harmful to living beings.
• Most VOCs are released in very small amounts
  • Unclear health effects due to low concentrations

Radon-222

• Colorless, tasteless, odorless, radioactive gas from decay of U-238 found in soils & rocks. —
• Can seep into some houses. Most homes are now radon resistant —
• 55% of our exposure to radiation comes from radon
• May harm lungs from long term exposure.
  • Increases the risk of lung cancer Chance increase more if a smoker (synergistic effect)
  • Causes 20,000 deaths a year in the U.S.
• Reducing the risk
  • Sealing cracks in floors and walls
  • Simple systems using pipes and fans

Sources & paths of entry for indoor radon-222 gas