You may think that air pollution is something only associated with factories and automobile exhaust. However, indoor air quality can have profound impacts on your health and longevity. Several factors can determine the quality of the air you breathe whether at home or on the job. An assessment of possible sources can help correct any issues of air pollution.
Health Effects
The ironic thing about indoor air pollution is that you are more likely to suffer health effects if your own home has issues with air quality. Chances are that you spend more indoor time at home than elsewhere, making indoor air pollution problems especially serious. The primary health effects are respiratory issues. Effects can be immediate such as throat irritation. It can also exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), long-term health effects can include respiratory diseases, heart disease and even cancer.
Radon
Radon is an especially dangerous form of air pollution. According to the National Cancer Institute, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, surpassed only by cigarette smoking. What makes radon so dangerous is that you may not be aware that you are being exposed to this deadly toxin. It is colorless, odorless and tasteless. The only way it can be detected is through testing. Your exposure will vary depending upon where you live and your area's geology. Radon occurs naturally from the breakdown of uranium in the earth's crust.
Other Sources
There are several sources of indoor air pollution. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, carbon dioxide emissions and particulate matter can impair your indoor air quality. Other sources can be seemingly innocuous such as air fresheners or household cleaners. Activities in or around your home can also contribute to indoor pollution such as pesticide application or painting rooms in your house. Of course, if you or anyone in your household smokes, additional pollutants may be present.
Prevention/Solution
To maintain proper air quality, install carbon monoxide and radon detectors in your home. If radon levels reach hazardous levels, you can locate a radon mitigation contractor in your area through the EPA website. In addition, good ventilation and installation will prevent the build-up of toxins over time. You may also consider not smoking in your home and not permitting others in the household to do so.
Indoor Air Pollution at the Office
If your workplace has an indoor air pollution issue, you should take action to prevent future health problems. Contact your employer or work safety officer with your concerns. Your state health department may also be able to provide guidance. You can also call the Occupational Safety and Health Administration regarding a possible health hazard. (The site uses a form to contact via email.)
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
200 Constitution Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20210
202-219-8151
osha.gov/
References
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: An Introduction to Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)
- National Cancer Institute: Radon and Cancer: Questions and Answers
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: EPA Map of Radon Zones
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: State Radon Contact Information
