Managing Indoor Air Quality
How to Treat Toxic Radon, Carbon Monoxide, Building Materials & Mold
Nov 6, 2008
So how can the homeowner protect the family against these invisible dangers? Indoor air quality testing and correcting hazardous conditions. Most air-borne pollutants are not noticed, but they're there.
Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants
According to www.cpsc.gov, these hazards come from many sources such as damp carpeting and padding, deteriorating construction materials, furniture made of pressed wood products, and even air fresheners.
Pesticides are always an issue, many times even if it is a strict organic household, these may enter the home via other means. Radon gas, a known carcinogen, also enters the home from outdoors.
The Role of Home Ventilation
Today, modern homes tend to be built to be more tightly sealed than older homes. While this is great for energy conservation, it can trap pollutants indoors. Basement ventilation that is not filtered can allow more harmful elements to enter.
In addition to ventilation, harmful pollutants can enter by a process known as infiltration. This occurs from outdoor air entering the home via cracks in ceilings, floors, and walls.
How to Identify Air Quality Issues
Sometimes, pollutants are apparent, manifesting in headaches, dizziness, and other physical signs. If there is an unusual amount of condensation on walls and windows, this may indicate insufficient ventilation. Air that is too stuffy or just smells wrong is also a red flag.
Radon Testing to Identify a Problem
Radon test kits are an inexpensive way to tell if this radioactive gas is present and whether the levels are acceptable or whether they are high enough to constitute a health risk.
When using a test kit, be sure it displays the phrase "Meets EPA Requirements." In the US, another method is to employ the EPA's voluntary National Radon Proficiency Program (RPP) evaluated testing (measurement) contractors.
Likewise, carbon monoxide can be tested and eliminated.
The Threat of Environmental Tobacco Smoke
As much as this has become a social issue, the fact is that tobacco smoke is a serious health risk to all the home's occupants and is especially harmful to children and pregnant women.
The solution to the tobacco smoke issue is obvious; take it outside or confine it to a specific area with an exhaust fan to the exterior of the home..
Biological Contaminants
Biological contaminants come in many forms: animal dander, pollen, mildew, mold, viruses, cockroaches, and even cat saliva.
These contaminants might make themselves known by an allergic reaction, an unusual number of sneezing fits, humidity fever (exposure to toxins from microorganisms that can grow in large building ventilation systems)), or watering eyes.
How to Reduce Biological Contaminants
- When building materials or carpets get wet, dry them immediately.
- Avoid carpet stains and health problems by cleaning it right away when the pet soils it.
- Install and use vent fans in kitchens and bathrooms to the exterior of the residence.
- Keep the home clean; don't keep dust bunnies as pets!
- Change the central air conditioner/heater return air filter every month.
- If the home has a basement drain, clean and disinfect it monthly.
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