Volatile Organic Compoundscommonly referred to as VOCs, are organic chemicals that turn into vapour form at room temperature, causing a decrease in air quality. These chemicals can aggravate respiratory issues, visual issues, and adversely affect overall health. VOCs can cause liver complications, kidney damage, and cancer. Some of the most common volatile organic compounds are benzene, toluene, acetone, formaldehyde, and xylene. Within workspaces, paints, furnishing, perfumes, cleaners, air conditioners are some frequent sources of VOCs. According to studies done by the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), levels of VOCs are two to five times higher indoors than outdoors. This is why VOC removal is essential in workspaces.
Volatile Organic Compound removal methods:
- Go Natural
One of the easiest ways on how to reduce VOCs from the workspace is by substituting artificial sources like air fresheners and cleaning products with healthier natural supplements. Potpourris from herbs and flowers give the workspace a natural smell. Natural essential oils can be used as air fresheners as well. Olive oil can be used as a wood polish for furniture as well.
- Go Green
Decorating the workspace with plants is a cheap way to make the office look welcoming and natural. Plants absorb volatile organic compounds and also provide essential oxygen. Some of the best plants are evergreens, chrysanthemums, aloe vera, bonsai plants, and more.
- Paint choice
Considering how to remove VOCs from airin a workspace, substantial levels of VOC solvents are constituted in paints that contribute to air pollution within the workspace. While choosing paint for the workspace, it is best to go for pants with labels saying ‘low VOC.’
- Waste Disposal
Keeping the workspace tidy also attributes to keeping VOC levels lower. Keeping toxic substances like unused paint and waste that emit gases in an unattached storage space improves the air quality in the workplace.
- Ventilation
Enabling the ability for proper ventilation in the office space is an efficient volatile organic compound removal method.Opening up a window brings in fresh airflow and removes the VOC vapours from the workspace environment. The air quality must be monitored, and the ventilation can be adjusted accordingly.
Short term effects of VOC exposure are headache, coughing, pneumonia, and skin irritation. Long term effects include cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and it also impacts a reproductive system. Knowledge of how to reduce VOCis imperative for a healthy workspace environment.