When many people think of the environment, they draw to mind an image of the air, water, and land that surround us outside. However, there is growing attention to protecting and cleaning the "indoor environments" of our homes, school, offices, and public places. Perhaps you have heard of "sick building syndrome." This syndrome can allegedly be caused by an impure or hazardous indoor environment, and is often characterized by a resolution or diminishment of symptoms when the affected individual is not in the building. There are in actuality numerous indoor objects that can contaminate our "environment" and be harmful or sometimes even fatal. Here is some interesting information on indoor pollution, and tips on how to avoid it.

Alarming Statistics

The EPA has performed studies that indicate that indoor levels of many pollutants may be two to five times higher than outside levels. The studies have even revealed some instances where indoor levels were more than 100 times higher than outdoor levels.

These results are particularly alarming when compared to the fact that the EPA studies also revealed that most Americans spend as much as 90 percent of their time indoors!

Examples Of Building-Related Illnesses & Symptoms

• Legionnaire's disease
• Asthma
• Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
• Humidifier fever
• Irritated nose, eyes, and throat
• Sneezing
• Blocked sinuses
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Irritability
• Forgetfulness

POTENTIAL SOURCES

• Building maintenance activities
• Pest control
• Housekeeping and cleaning activities
• Renovation and remodeling activities
• New furnishings
• Finishes on furniture or other products
• Occupant/inhabitant activities such as smoking
• Asbestos from insulation
• Formaldehyde from pressed wood products
• Organics and chemicals in carpet fibers and backing
• Restroom air fresheners
• Paints
• Adhesives
• Water-damaged walls, carpets, and furnishings
• Copying machines
• Facsimile machines
• Photography supplies
• Print supplies

Types Of Contaminants

• Biological contaminants: Bacteria, viruses, fungi, molds, dust mites, animal dander, pollen, condensation, and humidity.
• Chemical pollutants: Tobacco smoke, emissions from office equipment, furniture, cleaning and consumer hygiene products, accidental release or spill of chemicals and gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide.
• Particles: Solid or liquid substances light enough to be transferred by air such as dust, dirt, sawdust, drywall chalk, and ink particles from copying machines.

Tips For Preventing Indoor Air Pollution

• Do not close or block air vents, registers, or grilles with furniture, boxes, or other objects.
• Do not smoke in prohibited or enclosed areas (second-hand smoke is a leading trigger of asthma and other respiratory conditions).
• Water and maintain house and office plants.
• Dispose of garbage frequently and properly.
• Store food and other perishables properly.
• Dust and vacuum regularly.
• Be careful with the use of aerosol paint, sprays, and other aerosol products.
• Be careful with the use of home and office-use pesticides such as "bug bombs" and roach sprays. Consider using bait traps for pests, as these will likely not involve the release of as many chemical particles.
• Control humidity and moisture levels indoors.
• Clean air vents and air-conditioning and dehumidifier drip pans or filters regularly.
• Before purchasing new furniture, appliances or other similar items for home or office use ask the seller, supplier, manufacturer, or designer of the product to provide information on any chemical emissions which the product may have.
• Ask if new items such as carpeting or furniture can be aired out in a clean, dry, environment before they are installed or brought into your home and office.

Specific Steps for Establishing Improving Indoor Air Qualities

• MANAGE the source of indoor pollutants by refraining from use entirely, or controlled timing of the use.
• ISOLATE the pollutant from inhabitants or occupants of the area.
• DILUTE indoor pollutants when used.
• REMOVE them from the area through the use of ventilation.
• FILTRATE in order to clean the air of pollutants that may be left behind after dilution and ventilation.