Housing...Inside and Out

August 14, 1998
Ten Indoor Air Hazards

MOISTURE AND BIOLOGICALS (like molds, mildew and dust mites). Sources include excessive humidity levels, poorly maintained humidifiers and air-conditioners, inadequate ventilation and animal dander.

COMBUSTION PRODUCTS (including carbon monoxide). Sources include unvented gas heaters, stoves and ovens, and "back-drafting from furnaces and water heaters.

FORMALDEHYDE. Sources include durable press drapes and other textiles, particle board products such as cabinets and furniture framing and adhesives.

RADON. This is a radioactive gas from soil and rock beneath and around the foundation ground water wells and some building materials.

HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS AND FURNISHINGS. These include volatile organic compounds from paints, solvents, air fresheners, hobby supplies, dry cleaned clothing, aerosol sprays, adhesives and fabric additives used in carpeting and furniture.

ASBESTOS. Most houses more than 20 years old are likely to have asbestos. Sources include deteriorating, damaged and disturbed pipe insulation, fireproofing or acoustical materials and floor tiles.

LEAD. Sources include lead-based paint dust from removing paint by sanding, scraping and burning.

PARTICULATES. Sources include particles from fireplaces, wood stoves, kerosene heaters, unvented gas space heaters, tobacco smoke, dust and pollen.

REMODELING BYPRODUCTS. Remodeling can provide the releases of such materials as asbestos, lead, formaldehyde and other hazardous materials into the air.

ENVIRONMENTAL TOBACCO SMOKE. A mixture of smoke given off by the burning end of a cigarette, pipe or cigar, and the smoke exhaled from the lungs of smokers.

SIGNS OF POSSIBLE HOME INDOOR AIR QUALITY PROBLEMS

A major hazard is misinformation. Be informed. Be alert for these signs.

  • unusual and noticeable odors, stale or stuffy air
  • noticeable lack of air movement
  • dirty or faulty central heating or air conditioning equipment
  • damaged flue pipes or chimneys
  • unvented combustion air sources for fossil fuel appliances
  • excessive humidity
  • tightly constructed or remodeled home
  • presence of molds and mildew
  • health reaction after remodeling, weatherizing, using new furniture, use of household or hobby products, or moving into a new home
  • feeling noticeably healthier outside the home


Written by Dr. Francis Graham (Retired)

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