Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that have a high vapor pressure at room temperature, meaning they easily evaporate into the air. Common sources include paints, cleaning supplies, pesticides, building materials, furnishings, and office equipment.
Many VOCs are harmful to human health. Short-term exposure can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and nausea. Long-term exposure has been linked to liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage, and some VOCs are known or suspected carcinogens.
Indoor VOC concentrations are often 2-5 times higher than outdoor levels, and can be up to 1,000 times higher immediately after activities like painting or using certain cleaning products.
To reduce VOC exposure, look for products certified by GREENGUARD or GREENGUARD Gold, which test for chemical emissions including VOCs.