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This overview highlights the most common indoor air pollutants found in occupational settings, their potential health effects, and practical considerations for managing exposure.
Key Indoor Air Pollutants to Monitor
AsbestosAsbestos remains a concern in many aging facilities, especially where insulation, ceiling tiles, or flooring materials are damaged or disturbed. Airborne asbestos fibers can cause serious long-term illnesses, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Identifying asbestos-containing materials and implementing appropriate monitoring and abatement programs are essential risk management steps.
Biological Contaminants
Microorganisms and allergens—such as mold, bacteria, viruses, dust mites, and animal dander—often thrive in environments with excess moisture or insufficient ventilation. Exposure can trigger allergies, worsen asthma, and contribute to respiratory infections. Prevention focuses on moisture control, effective ventilation, and regular building maintenance.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)
Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas generated by incomplete combustion from sources such as furnaces, boilers, gas appliances, and vehicles. Even low-level exposure can cause headaches and dizziness, while higher concentrations may be fatal. Preventive strategies include appliance maintenance, adequate ventilation, and continuous CO monitoring.
Formaldehyde
Commonly released from composite wood products, furnishings, adhesives, and coatings, formaldehyde can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract and is classified as a carcinogen. Exposure reduction relies on selecting low-emission materials, improving air exchange, and controlling emission sources.
Lead (Pb)
Lead exposure typically results from deteriorating lead-based paints or contaminated dust, particularly in older buildings. Health impacts include neurological damage and developmental effects. Effective control requires proper containment, dust management, and strict adherence to lead-safe work practices.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)
Produced by fuel-burning appliances and vehicle exhaust, nitrogen dioxide can aggravate respiratory conditions and increase susceptibility to infections. Risk reduction includes proper ventilation, routine equipment servicing, and limiting indoor combustion sources.
Pesticides
Chemicals used for pest control may persist indoors and pose health risks ranging from skin irritation to neurological effects. Reducing reliance on chemical treatments and adopting integrated pest management (IPM) approaches can significantly lower exposure.
Radon (Rn)
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can infiltrate buildings through cracks and openings in foundations. Long-term exposure significantly increases lung cancer risk. Regular testing and building mitigation measures are critical components of radon risk management.
Secondhand Smoke
Environmental tobacco smoke contains a complex mixture of toxic compounds linked to cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness, and cancer. Enforcing smoke-free indoor policies is one of the most effective ways to protect indoor air quality.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
VOCs are released from products such as paints, solvents, cleaning agents, and furnishings. Short-term exposure can cause irritation and headaches, while chronic exposure may affect liver, kidney, and nervous system function. Selecting low-VOC products and ensuring adequate ventilation are key mitigation strategies.
Particulate Matter (PM)
Particulate matter consists of fine particles generated by combustion, construction activities, material handling, and outdoor pollution infiltrating indoors. These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and contribute to respiratory and cardiovascular disease. Monitoring and controlling PM levels is especially important in industrial and construction environments.
Practical IAQ Management Strategies for H&S Professionals
To effectively manage indoor air risks, occupational health and safety professionals typically rely on a combination of the following approaches:- Ventilation Optimization
Increasing the supply of outdoor air and ensuring proper airflow helps dilute indoor contaminants. - Source Identification and Control
Locating pollutant sources and reducing emissions at their origin is often the most effective control method. Instrumentation and monitoring solutions can support accurate source identification and exposure assessment. - Air Cleaning and Filtration
High-efficiency filtration and properly maintained HVAC systems can significantly reduce airborne contaminant levels. - Humidity Management
Keeping indoor humidity within an optimal range (generally 30–50%) helps prevent mold growth and limits biological contaminants.
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Source: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/indoor-pollutants-and-sources