VOC testing involves measuring the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from various materials, products, or air. These compounds can cause health issues if exposed to high levels for long periods.
Increasing ventilation in the home or office is often the most effective way to reduce VOC exposure. However, in many cases, eliminating the source of off-gassing isn’t always possible.
VOC Testing
VOC testing is the process of analyzing and quantifying volatile organic compounds. It can be used for various purposes, including air quality monitoring, compliance testing for green building rating systems, and troubleshooting odors.
Generally, VOCs are identified and quantitated by gas chromatography (GC) with flame ionization (FID), electron capture (ECD), or mass spectrometry. Mass spectrometry is usually used when a high degree of confidence in compound identification is required.
Many VOCs, like VOC testing Portland Oregon, are present in indoor air and are emitted by various sources, such as buildings, furnishings, and personal care products. Some have been found to cause short- and long-term health effects.
Air Quality Testing
Air quality testing is collecting and analyzing ambient air samples to determine what chemicals may affect human health and safety. This type of test is often recommended as part of a Phase 1 environmental site assessment, especially for sites where subsurface chemical contamination may exist or that have been exposed to naturally occurring gasses like radon and methane.
VOCs, volatile organic compounds, are toxic vapors that off-gas from artificial materials and everyday household items like furniture, paint, carpeting, flooring, and more. They are a significant indoor air pollution problem and can be particularly harmful to children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with asthma.
We use a “whole-air sampling” technique to capture the off-gassing VOCs in your building and devise strategies to minimize their emission. Once we have determined the specific VOCs emitted by your facility, we can recommend appropriate ventilation and airflow changes that will reduce the emission of VOCs over time.
Water Testing
Water testing is the process of analyzing and evaluating drinking water quality. It may be performed by governmental organizations trying to regulate water quality, or it might be carried out by homeowners who want to ensure that their primary water source is safe to drink.
VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are a class of chemicals that evaporate quickly into water or vaporize into the air. They are produced by various industrial, agricultural, and household products.
When VOCs enter groundwater, they can cause several health effects. This includes the nervous system, kidney, and liver damage.
VOC Removal
VOCs are a common source of indoor air pollution and are regularly detected in fumes from spray paint, furniture, upholstery, pesticides, caulking agents, cleaning products, and air fresheners. These chemicals can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and cause asthma symptoms in those exposed to high concentrations.
Removing VOCs is a significant first step to improving air quality. Removing them is easy and will immediately improve your health.
Aside from removing them, there are also several other ways to lessen their impact on the air in your home.
One of the best ways to reduce VOCs is by using a ventilation system that brings in the fresh air. This is especially helpful after cooking, doing arts and crafts, or using a wood fireplace.
