Issue 20, August 2006

Did you know that a component used in products such as air fresheners, toilet bowl deodorants and mothballs, was associated with reduced pulmonary function?

In the August issue of Environmental Health Perspectives (2006;114:p1210-1214)  in an article entitled "Volatile Organic Compounds and Pulmonary Function in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988–1994" the authors found that 1,4-dichlorobenzene, was found to be associated with decreased lung function.  1,4-dichlorobenzene is commonly used as a commercial deodoriser in toilet blocks.

The authors studied the blood levels of 953 adults and tested them for eleven volatile organic compounds (VOC's) commonly found in blood.  They tested blood rather than air concentrations because it is more indicative of personal exposure.  1,4-dichlorobenzene was found to be the only VOC (after adjustment for smoking), of those tested, to decrease lung function.

The important message we wish to make arising from this study is that a wide range of chemicals have the potential to have a negative effect on the health of some occupants, especially within an inadequately ventilated indoor environment.

Indoor Air Quality reviews, including testing, of your facility can provide reassurance that you are meeting your obligations as a employer plus they give you the opportunity to improve  productivity in your workplace. 

To read other related articles
Indoor Pollutants
Indoor Air Quality - health effects of VOC's
 

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