If you are reading this article, chances are you know that VOCs can be extremely harmful to our health. They can cause health problems such as eye irritation and respiratory issues. In some people, they might experience headaches, short term memory loss and even visual disorders immediately after they have been exposed to VOCs. However, VOCs might be even more harmful to people with pre-existing conditions such as asthma and sensitivity to certain chemical. In fact, studies have shown that VOCs are linked to an increased risk of developing cancers such as leukemia and lymphoma.
What Exactly are VOCs?
VOCs, or Volatile Organic Compounds, refer to the chemicals that are emitted as gases from some solid materials and liquids. Some of these VOCs might be naturally occurring but many of them exist because of human activity instead. VOCs can be very dangerous because it is very often that people get these compounds confused for safe ones. Take benzene for example. Although it is known that this chemical is extremely harmful to our bodies, it emits a sweet smell. Furthermore, this sweet smell can only be detectable when VOCs are found in certain amounts. Some examples of VOCs that might be common in our everyday lives include compounds such as ethylene glycol, formaldehyde, tetrachloroethylene and xylene. These might be found in our everyday products that are present in our home.
How Can You Avoid Exposure to VOCs?
For the case of VOCs, prevention is truly better than cure. It is widely known that it is better to remove the sources of the compounds rather than to deal with the effects of it after exposure. For example, it is much more effective to throw out a carpet that emits formaldehyde rather than to use an air filter to filter out these dangerous chemicals.
Bear in mind that you should also refrain from purchasing products that might contain VOCs. It is much better to buy furniture and home products that are made from organic wood or metals instead of boards that are pressed. Additionally, you can remove the current products in your home that might emit VOCs. This includes open cans of paint, sealants and varnish. Ensure that you never leave them open to protect your loved ones and yourself. If you are unsure what kind of products or materials might contain VOCs, you should hire a professional to help you do an inspection.
Buying Green Plants for Your Home
Utilizing plants to combat the ill-effects of VOCs is also incredibly useful. They can help to filter out dangerous chemicals and also facilitate the production of oxygen in your home, which is helpful to our health. It has been studied that plants such as the spider plant and the philodendron are extremely helpful in filtering out the dangerous formaldehyde molecules in the air. Needless to say, buying a couple of plants might not completely eradicate your problem. If you want to remove the sources of VOS, you will always benefit from professional remediation.