Organic gases
ORGANIC GASES
Sources: Household
products including: paints, paint strippers, and other solvents;
wood preservatives; aerosol sprays; cleansers and disinfectants;
moth repellents and air fresheners; stored fuels and automotive
products; hobby supplies; dry-cleaned clothing.
Health Effects:
Eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches, loss of coordination,
nausea; damage to liver, kidney, and central nervous system. Some
organics can cause cancer in animals; some are suspected or known
to cause cancer in humans.
Levels in Homes:
Studies have found that levels of several organics average 2 to
5 times higher indoors than outdoors. During and for several hours
immediately after certain activities, such as paint stripping, levels
may be 1,000 times background outdoor levels.
Steps to Reduce
Exposure:
- Use household
products according to manufacturer's directions.
- Make sure
you provide plenty of fresh air when using these products.
- Throw away
unused or little-used containers safely; buy in quantities that
you will use soon.
- Keep out
of reach of children and pets.
- Never mix
household care products unless directed on the label.
Related Pages:
Air
Conditioners
Air
Purifiers
Air
Cleaners
Portable
Air Conditioners
Vacuum
Cleaners
BACK
: Air Quality