All about volatile organic compounds

Although we may have heard about volatile organic compounds, the fact remains that we know very little about their origin, as well as the consequences of their presence for the environment as well as our health.

To gain a better understanding of their impact, here’s an overview of everything you need to know about volatile organic compounds.

What you need to know about volatile organic compounds

What are VOCs?

In short, we can say that volatile organic compounds are substances present in the atmosphere in a gaseous state. These are made up of at least one hydrogen atom and one carbon atom.

While some VOCs, such as benzene and formaldehyde, are considered hazardous substances, others, along with nitrogen oxides, contribute to the formation of ozone.

Sources of volatile organic compound emissions

Sources of volatile organic compound emissions

Volatile organic compounds found in the greatest quantities in our environment include benzene and formaldehyde. The former can be found in several products, including synthetic, preservative, or cleaning agents, as well as solvents and degreasers.

These products are used in a wide number of sectors including printing, metallurgy, mechanics, textiles, pharmaceutical production, plastics production, and more. That being said, remember that solvents come first in the production of volatile organic compounds, accounting for 45% of total emissions.

On the other hand, formaldehyde manifests itself more during the combustion of chipboard or via cigarette smoke.

The impact of VOCs on the environment and our health

As we briefly mentioned, VOCs contribute to the formation of ozone and more importantly, to its overproduction. Indeed, when present in the air, VOCs degrade the chemical equilibrium, resulting in too much ozone production.

Unfortunately, as a whole, this has negative consequences for our health, although the effects vary from one individual to another. Problems identified include chest pain, nasal and eye irritation, and several other types of discomfort. Although the majority of the population can cope well with low-intensity exposure to VOCs, the fact remains that those with health problems will feel the effects more intensely.

While the side effects mentioned may seem modest, it should be emphasized that VOCs can have much more serious consequences and be considered toxic substances. Some volatile organic compounds like benzene and formaldehyde are considered carcinogens, especially when people are exposed to them over long periods and in high concentrations. 

We should clarify that low-dose exposure doesn’t pose long-term problems. For more information on the formaldehyde exposure limits to observe, see the Residential Air Quality Guidelines: Formaldehyde document.

We should remind you that while the overproduction of ozone has health consequences, it also has harmful effects on the environment. In this regard, we’ll mention that it greatly alters the resistance of plants and generates an additional greenhouse effect.

How to reduce your exposure to volatile organic compounds

In a residential environment

Several recommendations can help you limit your exposure to volatile organic compounds. First, if you smoke, do it outside. Second, be an informed consumer and choose products with low emissions. Let’s continue by emphasizing the importance of proper ventilation in your home when products containing VOCs are used (glues, paints, cleaners, varnishes, and others) indoors.

Also, be sure to minimize the use of products intended to mask interior smells (such as those in the form of aerosols or fresheners), as these also produce volatile organic compounds so that they’re effective.

Lastly, at the time of purchase be sure to read the technical and toxicological data sheets that accompany products containing VOCs. You’ll find valuable information regarding the precautions to take when using them to avoid negative health impacts as much as possible.

In a working environment

Regarding exposure to volatile organic compounds in the workplace, it’s recommended that you avoid using products containing them as much as possible. Where appropriate, it’s suggested that you prioritize low emission products.

Second, it’s recommended that ventilation is increased. Ideally, this should not only be done by opening windows or doors, but also by installing fans capable of drawing in stale indoor air and expelling it outside.

Recently, storing products containing VOCs outside the workplace is a measure worth considering to ensure workers’ safety, as is wearing protective clothing when handling them.