Did you know?
- Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors.
- Indoor air pollution is often greater than outdoor air pollution.
- Indoor air pollutants may have adverse health effects.
- Indoor air pollutants are virtually unregulated by existing environmental laws.
- Thousands of people are poisoned in the home each year by misusing products.
What and where are these pollutant sources?
- Consumer products
- Air fresheners and deodorizers
- Cleaners and disinfectants
- Laundry supplies and dry-cleaned clothes
- Moth repellants and pesticides
- Cosmetics and other personal care products
- Building materials and furnishings
- Paints, varnishes, and stains
- Adhesives and solvents
- New carpet and flooring
- New Furnishings
- Combustion appliances
- Personal activities
- Use and storage of chemicals
- Smoking
- Hobbies
- Environmental conditions
- Mold and moisture
- Dust
What are the risks?
- Cancer
- Smoking indoors increases cancer risk for everyone.
- Dry-cleaned clothes can release chemicals linked with cancer into the air.
- Paints and finishes can contain carcinogens including silica and titanium dioxide.
- Respiratory Problems
- Mold and household dusts can trigger asthma attacks.
- Formaldehyde and other chemicals released from new flooring and furniture can cause respiratory distress.
- Other Dangers
- Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas released by combustion appliances. Carbon monoxide can cause headache,dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Inhaling high levels of CO can cause loss of consciousness and death.
Select a house below to learn more:
Important Links
- Request Additional Information [ Request Additional Information – Text Version ]
- IAQ in Homes
- Help Yourself to a Healthy Home
- Seven Tips for Keeping a Healthy Home
- US EPA – Indoor Air Quality
- American Lung Association – Creating a Healthy Home
- American Lung Association – Clean Air Assessment
- Health House Maintenance Guide
Indoor Air Pollutants
- Asbestos Fibers
- Biological Pollutants
- Carbon Monoxide (CO)
- Formaldehyde/Pressed Wood Products
- Lead
- Nitrogen Dioxide
- Pesticides
- Radon
- Respirable Particles (Dust)
- Environmental Tobacco Smoke
