We usually think of automobiles and factories as the greatest sources of pollution. The Clean Air Act of 1970, revised in 1990, has succeeded in reducing certain outdoor emissions; however, a person’s exposure to some pollutants is far greater indoors than outdoors.

Girl painting fingernailsFor instance, fingernail polish releases much more formaldehyde (H2CO) than does the particle board used in building construction. Formaldehyde, a volatile organic compound (VOC), is a common ingredient of many floor cleaners and polishes. (1)

Benzene (C6H6), another volatile organic compound, is a known carcinogen. Researcher Lance A. Wallace of the EPA identified the sources of all benzene emissions and compared them to the sources of benzene that people actually inhale. The results are shown in the graph: about 45% of the total exposure of the U.S. population to benzene comes from smoking or second hand smoke. Yet tobacco smoke accounts for only 0.1% of the total emissions. In contrast, automobiles are the largest contributor to atmospheric benzene, at 82%, yet they account for just 36% of the average person’s exposure. (2)

Sources of Benzene Emissions

In other words, if all benzene emissions were reduced in the atmosphere, there would be very little impact on a person’s exposure to this compound. But a small reduction in smoking, which is the smallest source of benzene in the atmosphere would reduce the exposure level to this compound significantly. (3)

Similarly, exposure to other toxic chemicals is more likely to come from indoor products. For example, deodorizers, moth repellents, and toilet disinfectants are sources of paradichlorobenzene (C6H4Cl2), which is a VOC and a carcinogen. Exposure to pesticides is often greater indoors than out. Another VOC, tetrachloroethylene (C2Cl4 ), is used to dry-clean clothes. Improperly adjusted stove burners and improperly vented appliances can release carbon monoxide (CO) in the home. Exposure to radon gas in the home has been a concern in the recent past.

Cigarette in ashtray
Home Environmentalists
The Seattle chapter of the American Lung Association sponsors a program called “master home environmentalists,” in which trained volunteers help residents control chemicals within their home. The program has been especially helpful to asthmatics who must eliminate indoor pollutants. Perhaps after researching this topic, you might start a similar program in your community.

One of the major contributors to indoor pollution is carpeting, since it collects certain chemicals tracked into the home. A child’s main exposure to cadmium, lead, other heavy metals and polychloronated biphenyls, a persistent organic, comes from carpeting. Dust is also a health problem, especially particles 10 microns or smaller.

Many household sources of pollutants can be controlled or even eliminated. Simple things like using a doormat to reduce substances tracked into the home can make a difference. Other tips: Eliminate household deodorizers and other sources of paradichlorobenzene. Do not store gasoline in the basement. Use a good vacuum cleaner for carpeting. To learn more about what can be done, see the resources below.

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