VOC stands for “volatile organic compound“. The term refers to a class of chemicals that begin to vaporize under temperature and pressure conditions commonly found in indoor environments. Common VOCs (benzene, formaldehyde, toluene, flammable alcohols, household cleaning solvents) can be present in a whole range of chemical products, including paints, floor and facade protectants, deodorants. Some are more toxic than others but, as a general rule, everyone should try to limit their exposure to VOCs and manufacturers need to think about this very carefully during their manufacturing processes.
Exposure to VOCs can contribute to a number of adverse health conditions. Immediate problems may include eye and throat irritation, headache, or nausea. Furthermore, volatile organic compounds can cause attacks in asthma sufferers. There may also be more serious implications if an individual is exposed to the compounds for longer periods of time; these include kidney disease, liver disease, and cancer.
There are a number of reasons then why manufacturers should seek to make, and consumers should seek to purchase, low-VOC products.
