At Purely Green Environmental, we strive to make people aware of the threats that poor indoor air quality can have on the general public. Awareness is key when it comes to air quality testing in Massachusetts because many of the most harmful elements contributing to poor indoor air quality can’t be seen with the naked eye. In his seminal book entitled “Fresh Air for Life: How to Win Your Unseen War Against Indoor Air Pollution,” Allan C. Somersall, PhD, MD sheds light on the potential dangers posed by indoor air pollutants.
Somersall says that today, people in industrialized countries spend more than 90 percent of their lives inside buildings, equivalent to over 65 years of the average life. This means that being aware of what makes up your indoor environment is extremely important. Somersall goes on to list ten of the major indoor contaminants that simply can’t be avoided.
- Environmental Tobacco Smoke – It is estimated that 46,000 Americans die every year due to second-hand smoke exposure.
- Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOCs) – Found in many common household products, VOCs are the most prevalent indoor air pollutants. These are carcinogenic chemicals and indoor sources account for somewhere between 80 and 100% of the total airborne risk associated with these chemicals.
- Pesticides – Many household pest control products have been deemed to be known carcinogens by the EPA.
- Pollen – Pollen grains are most likely to find their way into human nasal mucosa and cause allergic symptoms.
- Dust Mites – The typical house is occupied by dust mites in the millions, defecating everywhere.
- Combustion Products – Burning certain fuels can release toxic gases like carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and sulfur dioxide.
- Radon – Radon causes one-third of all lung cancer deaths.
- Pets-dander plus – Pet allergens are readily taken from house to house, with or without pets.
- Dust Fibers – Dust containing asbestos, vitreous fibers, and cellulose fibers are known carcinogens.
- Microorganisms – Many microorganisms can survive airborne transmission and in a more confined local environment indoors, the risk of the spreading disease is multiplied.
These are ten reasons why air quality testing in Massachusetts is such an essential service that we provide at Purely Green. Contact us today to find out how healthy your indoor environments are.
If you’re interested in air quality testing in Massachusetts, contact us at: 888-291-3773
