 |
| Office workers are exposed to PFCs and other indoor air pollutants. |
Researchers found that most offices expose workers to harmful chemicals like PFCs (polyfluorinated compounds), which are evident in the workers’ blood.
PFCs are chemicals that can be released by office furniture, carpet stain repellents, paint, food packaging and other products.
The chemicals have been linked to health effects like thyroid hormone imbalance, cancer and infertility.
The study of 31 office workers in Boston revealed much higher levels of PFCs in the employees, levels that were 3-5 times higher than studies on household air. Researchers concluded that offices could be a significant source of exposure of PFCs.
The study was published in Environmental Science & Technology.
The researchers previously studied office dust and found high concentrations of a banned flame retardant (PBDE) on Boston office workers’ hands. They suggested regular hand washing as an effective solution.
Source: Hindustan Times
Clear the air with powerful air filters
Offices don’t have to be stuffy or bad for workers’ health.
While office managers and facility management should work together to introduce fewer chemicals and other toxins into the ambient air and to increase ventilation, a simple and effective way to breathe cleaner air is by using a portable air purifier.
AllerAir specializes in air purifiers for the home and office with many pounds of activated carbon and HEPA plus optional UV filtration.
The activated carbon helps remove airborne chemicals, gases, fumes and odors.
The HEPA filter traps particles and dust, and the UV lamp helps neutralize contaminants such as bacteria, viruses and mold.
The air purifiers are designed to run on a low setting 24/7, to remove pollutants on a continuous basis and to keep the air moving.
Check out what other people are saying, and contact an AllerAir IAQ expert for more information and suggestions based on your unique indoor air concerns.
