Homeowners try to assess formaldehyde risks in floors

Laminate wood flooring may look nice, but some brands
release formaldehyde fumes into the air, experts say.

Installing a new wood floor is usually about aesthetics: brown or black? Glossy or matte?

Now, some Americans and businesses are grappling with another feature: formaldehyde.

Uneasy consumers have flooded state and federal safety agencies with inquiries about Lumber Liquidators, the discount flooring retailer accused in a “60 Minutes” episode of selling laminate wood with high levels of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

Should they rip it out? Leave it in? And what are the dangers to adults, children or even pets?

Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman of New York has opened an inquiry into whether the company violated safety standards. Safety officials in California are also likely to investigate.

But federal regulators, armed with murky rules or none at all, have scrambled to respond, leaving consumers largely responsible for assessing the risk.

Formaldehyde exposure can cause immediate health problems like respiratory and sinus effects, but the effects of long-term exposure remain unclear.

Regulators, at least for now, are advocating a tempered approach.

“We are not encouraging people to rip out their flooring right now,” said Lynn Baker, an air pollution specialist with the California Air Resources Board, which enforces the state formaldehyde rules that Lumber Liquidators is accused of breaking.

Commercial customers could also be affected, although Lumber Liquidators estimates that commercial sales make up less than 10 percent of the market for laminate flooring, a cheaper alternative to hardwood. Homeowners account for the bulk of its sales.

Lumber Liquidators disputes the “60 Minutes” report and says its flooring is safe. The company also said it was considering offering air testing services to reassure concerned consumers.

Installers, too, find themselves on the front lines after the report.

No federal rules for airborne chemicals in the home

While federal rules exist for workers, no federal rules protect consumers from formaldehyde or most other airborne chemicals in their homes.

And while research exists on formaldehyde’s health effects, experts have difficulty correlating levels of exposure with cancer risk since so many factors can affect the development of the disease.

“Any exposure to a carcinogen can increase your risk of cancer,” said Marilyn Howarth, a toxicologist at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine.

Mr. Baker, with the California agency, said consumers should ask two questions: How long has the flooring been installed, and have they been feeling sick?

“If the flooring has been installed more than a couple of years ago, most of it has probably already off-gassed,” he said, meaning that the chemical would probably have been released.

“If it was just installed last week, that’s a different story — you definitely want to ventilate the home.”

The floorboard controversy bears a resemblance to the cases of Chinese-made drywall that released sulfur gases into thousands of homes built after the 2005 hurricane season, which resulted in metal corrosion and health complaints.

But while the drywall gases were expected to be released for decades, formaldehyde emissions in flooring may not last as long.

Most new floors emit small levels of formaldehyde. But it also seeps out of adhesives used to bind furniture and other household items, affecting the quality of the air residents breathe.

To combat its harmful effects, governments around the world have limited the use of formaldehyde in household products, particularly those made of wood.

In Europe, chemical emissions from composite wood products are tightly regulated, and Japanese regulators put the onus on home builders to limit formaldehyde levels over all within houses they construct.

The United States, however, trails when it comes to such regulations. California enacted rules to cap emissions from composite wood products sold in the state.

As far back as 2009, the Environmental Protection Agency said it was considering adopting California’s limits nationwide, and it issued a proposed rule in 2013.

But after many delays at the request of the wood products industry, the E.P.A. has yet to complete its rule. The E.P.A. said it had no plan to investigate Lumber Liquidators, citing the lack of a finished rule.

Agency proposes ventilation and air testing

The agency says it is trying to give consumers “actionable guidance” when it comes to formaldehyde from composite woods, according to Bob Axelrad, a policy adviser in the office of air and radiation.

That includes proper ventilation, when possible, and using reliable air testing methods.

David Krause, an environmental consultant at the consulting firm Geosyntec and the former state toxicologist of Florida, said ventilation helped but was not always a solution: Humidity, for example, can intensify the problem.

Testing indoor air quality is also not a simple proposition — mainly because federal standards are geared toward workplaces, not homes. There are no definitive testing levels, and people react in different ways to the chemical.

“We really don’t have anything that is enforceable,” Dr. Krause said.

Still, based on current knowledge of the Lumber Liquidators’ product, he added: “This is not a ‘Your hair’s on fire’ emergency.”

The Consumer Product Safety Commission may take a lead role in investigating Lumber Liquidators. The commission can push for a recall if it can prove direct harm to human health.

But that would involve a long regulatory inquiry. Several consumers have begun pursuing a different path: suing the company.

Source: New York Times; This article has been edited for length.

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EPA Awards Funding to Reduce Pesticide Risk Including Risks to Bees

Louisiana State, Penn State and University of Vermont at the forefront of groundbreaking technology

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced agricultural grants for Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices to reduce the use of potentially harmful pesticides and lower risk to bees all while controlling pests and saving money.

“These collaborative projects can provide innovative solutions to reduce pesticide risks to pollinators and crops,” said James Jones, assistant administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. “Initiatives such as these will encourage others to adopt promising technologies and practices across the nation to reduce pesticide risks while maximizing crop production and protecting public health.”

IPM relies on easy-to-implement, environmentally-sensitive practices that prevent pests from becoming a threat. These practices involve monitoring and identifying pests and taking preventive action before pesticides are used. If pesticides are needed, methods such as targeted spraying may be used. These grants will expand public-private stewardship efforts and reduce pesticide risk in agriculture.

The Agricultural IPM Grants are awarded to:

The Louisiana State University project to minimize impacts to bees from insecticides used in mosquito control. Mosquito control is critical for public health; however, insecticides can be hazardous to bees. Bees are essential for crop production and ensuring a healthy food supply. Practices and guidelines resulting from the project will be distributed to mosquito control districts and beekeepers throughout the U.S.

The University of Vermont project to reduce pesticide use and improve pest control while increasing crop yields on 75 acres of hops in the Northeast. The awardees will also develop and distribute outreach materials to help farmers adopt these practices. The project’s goal is to reduce herbicide and fungicide applications by 50 percent while decreasing downy mildew, a plant disease.

The Pennsylvania State University project to protect bees and crops by reducing reliance on neonicotinoid pesticide seed treatments and exploring the benefits of growing crops without them. IPM in no-till grain fields will be used to control slugs and other pests that damage corn and soybeans. Researchers will share their findings with mid-Atlantic growers and agricultural professionals.


For more information on the EPA’s Regional Agricultural IPM Grants: http://www.epa.gov/pestwise/grants/regionalaggrants.html

Live in a port community? The EPA wants you to breathe cleaner air

Photo: Vichaya Kiatying-Angsulee

Most of America's busiest shipping ports are located near large metropolitan areas. That may be ideal for the transport business, but it's generally bad for area residents.

Transport means diesel pollution, which is linked to a range of serious health problems including asthma, lung and heart disease and even premature death. That's why the EPA says they've put aside four million dollars in grant money to reduce diesel emissions from marine and inland water ports.

The agency says the main problem is older diesel engines that emit large amounts of air pollutants, such as nitrogen oxides (NOX) and particulate matter (PM). They hope the grants for "clean diesel projects" will make immediate emissions reductions and provide health benefits.

“Ports are essential to the nation’s economy and transportation infrastructure, but they also are home to some of the nation’s toughest environmental challenges,” said Janet McCabe, acting assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “These grants will help port authorities to provide immediate emissions reductions that will benefit those who work and live in port-side communities.”

This grant competition is available under the Diesel Emission Reduction Act (DERA) Program and is the first grant competition to focus on solely reducing emissions at ports. Projects may include a wide range of port-polluting equipment including drayage trucks, marine engines, locomotives, and cargo handling equipment. The EPA says priority will be given to ports located in areas of poor air quality.

What do you think? Do these projects make a difference?

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7 States Sue the EPA for not limiting pollution from wood heaters

A coalition of seven states have filed a lawsuit against the federal Environmental Protection Agency for violating the Clean Air Act. They say the EPA has failed to adequately limit air pollution emissions from new residential wood heaters.

Outlined in the legal papers, NewYork Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, along with the other coalition contend that the EPA's existing emissions limits, which haven't been revised in 25 years, are outdated and leave out popular types of residential wood heaters -- including outdoor wood boilers.

“EPA's regulations simply haven't kept pace with the proliferation of wood-burning devices or the availability of cleaner-burning units. Smoke from residential wood-burning heaters poses a serious health threat, especially in New York’s rural communities,” Attorney General Schneiderman said. “This lawsuit aims to force the EPA to comply with the Clean Air Act and provide overdue leadership in requiring new wood heaters to meet stricter pollution standards – an action that will save consumers money, improve local air quality and safeguard public health.”

Wood smoke contains several pollutants, including fine particulate matter (soot), that are linked to serious public health impacts, including asthma attacks, heart attacks and premature death. Wood smoke can also cause short-term effects such as eye, nose, throat and lung irritation and shortness of breath. According to recent EPA data, soot emitted from wood-burning devices comprises 13 percent of all soot pollution in the country. Moreover, several studies have found that residential wood combustion is responsible for potentially dangerous short-term spikes in soot air pollution, especially in rural areas.

Under the Clean Air Act, EPA must set pollution emission limits, called New Source Performance Standards or NSPS, for categories of emission sources that “cause, or contribute significantly to, air pollution which may reasonably be anticipated to endanger public health and welfare.” Importantly, the agency must review and, as appropriate, revise these limits at least every eight years to ensure they keep pace with advances in pollution control technologies. The limits apply to new or substantially modified sources

In 1988, EPA concluded that pollutants in wood smoke endanger public health and that residential wood heaters must be regulated under the Clean Air Act's NSPS provision. That same year, the agency set a NSPS limit for soot emissions by these devices. At the same time, EPA exempted heating devices that fall under the category of “boilers.” These 1988 standards remain on the books today, despite the development of much cleaner-burning stoves and the proliferation of outdoor wood boilers for residential heating.

A 2008 study by the New York State Attorney General's Office’s Environmental Protection Bureau found that outdoor wood boilers emit far more soot than other residential wood heaters—about 12 times as much soot as EPA-certified wood stoves, 1,000 times as much as oil furnaces and 1,800 times as much as gas furnaces. According to the report, the annual rate of outdoor wood boiler sales in the state probably increased threefold between 1999 and 2007, with an estimated 14,500 units sold in the state during those years.

Since the adoption of NSPS limits in 1988, three eight-year review periods mandated by the Clean Air Act have come and gone (1996, 2004, 2012) without the agency completing even one review of the limits. In the absence of EPA limits, the agency has established a voluntary program to encourage the purchase of cleaner-burning outdoor wood boilers. However, that program has not proven effective.

Joining Attorney General Schneiderman in the suit filed today are the states of Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, Rhode Island and Vermont, as well as the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency. The coalition's suit, which was filed in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., asks the court to find the EPA in violation of the Clean Air Act and order the agency to promptly review, propose and adopt necessary updates to the NSPS for residential wood heaters as required by the act.

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EPA obtains warrant to cleanup over 1000 unlabeled or improperly labeled drums and containers in NJ

Ongoing Investigation Reveals Presence of Hazardous Materials 

Photo: EPA

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has obtained a federal warrant to do the necessary cleanup work at the Superior Barrel & Drum company facility in Elk Township, New Jersey, where more than a thousand unlabeled or improperly labeled drums and other containers have been left in a state of disrepair.

Many of the drums are leaking their contents onto the ground and are exposed to wind and rain. The EPA and the NJDEP are currently investigating the drums and containers at the site under a warrant that was previously issued by a federal judge when the facility owner refused to give the EPA access to the facility. The EPA is working with Elk Township, the local fire and police departments and the NJDEP on the investigation and cleanup of the facility.

“This facility contains a large number of barrels that need to be addressed. The EPA intends to do everything necessary to ensure that hazardous materials at the facility do not harm the public,” said Judith A. Enck, EPA Regional Administrator. "The EPA’s top priority is preventing a release, fire or explosion that could endanger the community or pollute the environment.”

“Conditions at this facility are inexcusable,” New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Bob Martin said. “The DEP will continue to work with the Environmental Protection Agency on the categorization and safe removal of these materials, as well as soil testing and monitoring to ensure the environment and public health are protected. We will also support any legal or enforcement actions deemed necessary to restore this site and protect the public.”

The EPA began its investigation on August 30, 2013. Field tests indicate that some drums contain hazardous materials, including corrosive and flammable chemicals. The preliminary results of samples sent to the laboratory show the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and other hazardous substances such as lead. Exposure to these pollutants can have serious health effects. Benzene is known to cause cancer and lead is a toxic metal that is especially dangerous to children because their growing bodies can absorb more of it than adults. Lead in children can result in I.Q. deficiencies, reading and learning disabilities, reduced attention spans, hyperactivity and other behavioral problems.

Once it completes its investigation, the EPA will work with state and local agencies to take appropriate steps to remove the hazardous waste and protect the public. The EPA is monitoring the air near the work areas. The EPA will secure the materials and make arrangements for their transport and proper disposal out of the area. Prior to removal of any of the hazardous materials, the EPA will develop a contingency plan to ensure that the removal of the chemicals is done safely. Fire department and hazardous materials response teams will be consulted and prepared to respond to the site if necessary. Throughout the cleanup, the municipal government and local community will be kept informed.
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Carnival Cruises reaches pact to curb cruise ship air pollution in U.S. and Canada

Photo: Carnival

The Carnival Corporation has received the support of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Coast Guard and Transport Canada to implement a significant advancement in environmental technology designed to reduce air emissions from cruise ships and large marine vessels.

As part of today's announcement, Carnival has committed over $180 million for exhaust gas cleaning technology on 32 ships. These include vessels from Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises and Cunard that sail regularly within the North American Emission Control Area (ECA).

"This is a significant accomplishment as well as an important milestone for our company," said Carnival Corporation & plc CEO Arnold Donald. "Working together with the EPA, U.S. Coast Guard and Transport Canada, we have developed a breakthrough solution for cleaner air that will set a new course in environmental protection for years to come."

Carnival has been a partner in the development of this technology and will take the lead in further refining both design and installation aspects on ships with a variety of engine configurations between now and mid-2016.

This new generation of so-called "scrubber technology" combines the removal of sulfur with the substantial reduction of particulate matter and black carbon. Once the exhaust gas cleaning technology is installed and fully operational on the various Carnival subsidiary ships, they will exceed ECA standards. The International Maritime Organization's MARPOL Annex VI places a cap on sulfur within ECAs at 1.0%, which took effect in North America in 2012. In 2015, the limit will be 0.1%.

Carnival's design combines two established technologies, which have been successfully used in power plants, factories and vehicles to clean - or scrub - the exhaust from high-sulfur fuel. For the first time this combination is being developed to accommodate restricted spaces on existing ships.

In addition to exceeding stricter air emission standards, Carnival's technology will help the company mitigate escalating fuel costs. The agreement in principle from the EPA and Coast Guard would enable an exemption for Carnival to use the fuel source that makes the most sense from an environmental and economic perspective. The agreement in principle is a requirement for the flag states of each Carnival subsidiary to grant permission for implementation.

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EPA gives $11M in grants to develop tests for chemicals' toxicity to people and the environment

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will give out nearly $11 million in grants to develop methods to assess the safety of chemicals and the impact of chemical exposure.

These innovative testing methods will be used to predict a chemical’s potential to interact with biological processes that could lead to reproductive and developmental problems, and disruption of the endocrine system.

The eight universities receiving the grants will focus on developing methods and models to predict how exposure to environmental and synthetic (man-made) chemicals and chemical mixtures may harm the public. 

Some synthetic chemicals are known endocrine disruptors, which interfere with or even mimic natural hormones and cause damage to the development and function of vital organs, particularly in young children and developing fetuses. There are currently thousands of chemicals in use and hundreds more introduced every year.

The grantees are:

• University of Texas at Austin – testing chemicals that impact fertility and embryonic development, and developing a model to classify chemicals according to the risks they pose

• North Carolina State University – developing innovative methods to understand how chemicals influence the regulation of development, reproduction, and metabolism

• Oregon State University – using zebrafish testing methods to determine if they have results similar to traditional toxicity tests and to determine if these methods could be used as alternatives for existing toxicity tests

• University of California Davis – investigating the effect of environmental agents on thyroid hormones and modeling how the chemicals affect organism health

• Battelle Memorial Institute, Pacific Northwest Division, state of Washington – working with assay systems of the rainbow trout pituitary, liver and ovary to screen for environmental toxins and measure reproductive endocrine functions impaired by these toxins

• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – developing chemical effect testing for in vitro systems and computational toxicology solutions to measure risk in populations, and creating models based on the resulting data

• University of Michigan – improving upon an existing in vitro, neurochemical screening assay platform, and modeling adverse reproductive effects associated with toxic exposure in wildlife

• University of South Carolina – developing a targeted innovative animal imaging method to screen and identify chemicals that exhibit abnormal development in the cardiovascular and nervous systems that lead to indirect adverse effects on muscle development within zebrafish larvae

More information on EPA’s chemical safety research: http://www.epa.gov/research/chemicalscience/

Demystifying household chemicals: Triclosan

Triclosan is a common ingredient
in liquid soap
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos

"Demystifying household chemicals" is a series that aims to inform people on the types of chemicals found in and around our homes. The series will be featured every Wednesday where a different chemical, and its everyday uses, will be discussed.

Last week, the news was littered with articles about triclosan, a chemical whose side effects have suddenly resurfaced. Though this chemical has been used for 40 years, a new study has found even more disturbing health hazards.

Triclosan is a type of phenol (see article on phenols) and it is used as an antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agent.  In its natural form, triclosan is a white powder that has a slight aromatic smell.  Because of its antibacterial properties, which are often used in liquid soap, scientists have expressed concern that the overuse of triclosan can result in bacteria strains which are resistant to the chemical.

Though many products contain triclosan and, according to the FDA and the European Union, must list the chemical in the products' ingredients, there are many companies that have their own trademarks.  The following are other names used for the chemical triclosan:

• Microban
• UltraFresh
• Amicor
• BioFresh

Triclosan has been known to cause a number of health issues, including endocrine disruption (which affects your hormones), cancer and birth defects.  The new study indicates the chemical can also affect your muscles. 

After extensive tests, researchers have determined that even short term exposure can reduce muscle contractions, thereby increasing the potential for heart disease and heart failure.

In 1998, the EPA estimated that over one million pounds of triclosan were produced every year in the United States. In light of the number of products now containing the chemical, production has undoubtedly increased. With that increase is the chemical’s reach. Traces of triclosan have been found in breast milk, waterways, dolphins, fish and human blood.

Though the quantity of triclosan used in everyday products is within acceptable levels, the fact that we use so many different products that contain this chemical is cause for concern. Here are a few examples of where triclosan can be found:

• Liquid soap
• Facial cleansers
• Mouthwash
• Toothpastes
• Make-up
• Deodorants
• Shaving creams and gels
• First aid medicines (e.g. sprays)
• Cutting boards
• Socks
• Toys
• Furniture
• Paints

Take a look at this list of brand name products for more information on goods that contain triclosan.

After looking at the link above, how many of these products are in your home right now? What will you do with them? Let us know!

Sources: MedicalXpress,  AmericanNewsReport

Protecting your home and your health

Though products containing triclosan are used in hospitals to combat infections, scientists and doctors alike suggest people discontinue using antibacterial products, such as liquid soap, in the home. There is no absolute value added and regular soap and water can be just as effective.

Think about reducing the number of products within your home that contain triclosan, such as furniture, toys and socks.

 

AllerAir's air purifiers can
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Find alternative products that are better for you and for the environment. There are many organic products, or environmentally-friendly products, that can serve you better by keeping you healthier for longer.

Use air purifiers. The fact that one chemical is found in so many products should be a wake-up call.

We are living in a chemically-laden world. Thousands of chemicals are competing for space inside your home: air fresheners, your stove, cleaning products, personal care products etc...

An air purifier with an activated carbon filter will help remove those chemicals, gases and odors from the air, giving you a better chance at clean, healthy air.

For more information about our air purifiers, contact AllerAir today.

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Pesticide exposure affects boys more than girls

Chlorpyrifos is still widely used
in the agricultural industry
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos

On August 3, 2012, we posted a blog entry on how exposure to pesticides during pregnancy can affect fetuses.  A new study now reveals more details on the side effects of these toxic chemicals.

The Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health (CCCEH) has found that the insecticide chlorpyrifos affects boys and girls differently.

When comparing seven-year old boys and girls, the CCCEH determined that boys had more difficulty with their memory, which inevitably affected their IQ levels.

What it does

Chlorpyrifos was widely used in pesticides within the home until 2001, when the EPA restricted indoor use. 

This chemical is an endocrine disruptor, which interferes with the body’s hormones. The most common side effects of endocrine disruptors are developmental disabilities, such as attention deficit disorder, learning difficulties and even physical birth defects.

This study has been carried out at a few different levels. Earlier this year, it was shown that even low to moderate exposure to chlorpyrifos could have irreversible, adverse effects on babies’ brains.

The most recent study has focused on how different genders react to the same chemical. Dr. Megan Horton led the study where 335 mother-child pairs signed up to partake in the research.  After testing their home environment at age three, researchers tested the kids’ IQ at age seven. The boys’ IQ were, on average, three points below the girls’.

Chlorpyrifos’ reach

Though the EPA restricted the use of this chemical within the home, it is still widely used in commercial and agricultural sectors.  Farmers continue to use it for food and feed crops. Some parks and golf courses also use it. The lumber industry sometimes uses chlorpyrifos to treat wood.

People living in agricultural areas may be at risk of inhaling this chemical, thereby potentially affecting their unborn children. It is also possible to ingest it while eating fruit that have been sprayed with the insecticide, so caution is strongly advised.

Do you still use pesticides in your home? If you do, does this article change your mind about using them? If you no longer do, share your alternative solutions with us!

Source: Science Daily

In search of cleaner air

 

AllerAir's air purifiers
Speak to our IAQ experts
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Though there is not too much to be done about your exposure to chemical substances out in the open, there are ways to limit how these chemicals can affect you within your home.   

If you live in an agricultural community, where a lot of pesticides are used, it is a good idea to invest in an air purifier to improve your indoor air quality. 

Even when windows and doors are kept closed, toxins get trapped inside the house, resulting in poor indoor air quality.

AllerAir provides you with different air purification options. All our units can be customized with specially blended activated carbon filters which help remove chemicals and odors from the air. Our HEPA filters also clean the air by absorbing particles, such as dust, pollen and pet dander, which are known allergens..

To learn more about our air purifiers, contact AllerAir.

Show your support for greener and healthier living by becoming a follower of this blog.

Demystifying household chemicals: Phenol

Some of the biggest brand-name cleaning products
contain phenol (and other harmful chemicals).
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos

"Demystifying household chemicals" is a series that aims to inform people on the types of chemicals found in and around our homes. The series will be featured every Wednesday where a different chemical, and its everyday uses, will be discussed.

Chemicals surround us all the time and there are always warnings that pop up about this chemical causing terrible side effects or that chemical leading to cancer. It can be overwhelming to keep track of which chemicals are ‘safe’ and which are not. 

Phenol, also known as carbolic or phenic acid, can be quite a complex chemical as it is used in many different fields. It is an aromatic compound, as are some other chemicals discussed in previous posts, and though it can occur naturally, it is predominantly chemically produced.

Normally in solid form, it is often liquefied for commercial use and has a sickly sweet smell. Surprisingly, phenol can be both good and bad for you. 

Good phenol

Naturally occurring phenol is actually good for you. It is made up of a mixture of human and animal waste, coal tar, creosote and decomposing organic materials. Humans even produce and excrete small amounts of it. 

Many different types of food contain phenol.  These foods are antioxidants and are also known to have other protective properties. 

Some fruits containing phenol include cherries, apples, plums and grapes. You can also find phenols in vegetables such as red cabbage, yellow onions, potatoes and celery. For more information on which foods are full of good phenol, visit LiveStrong.

 

Bad phenol

Where phenol gets to be a problem is when it is produced chemically. This chemical ranks among the top 50 chemicals produced per year in the United States, at over three billion pounds.

Worldwide, six billion pounds of phenol are produced every year. It is also a component used to produce bisphenol A (BPA),  the chemical that was recently banned in baby bottles by the EPA. 

Toothpaste contains triclosan, a type of phenol.
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos

Phenol can be found in the following products:

• Mouthwash
• Salves
• Throat sprays
• Paint
• Rubber
• Soap
• Toys
• Cigarette smoke
• Wood-burning smoke
• Toothpaste
• Sunscreen
• Lotion
• Cleaning products
• Acne medications
• Sugar substitutes

So what does phenol do to the body?

In large quantities, bad phenol can have devastating effects on both your skin and your internal organs.

Adults working in the manufacturing and petroleum fields may be at risk. Long-term exposure in the workplace can cause heart disease.

Ingesting the chemical in liquid form can cause damage to your stomach and intestines and can even lead to death. Skin contact can cause irritations, blisters and burns.

In lower doses, phenol can cause lethargy and vomiting among kids exposed to disinfectants containing the chemical. 

For more detailed information on phenol, read up on a study done by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.

Do you have any questions about phenol? Post your questions or comments here!

What you can do at home

It is certainly a good idea to pick through your household goods and see which products you can do without.

There are cleaning products out there that are safer for you, your family and the environment.  Other products may be a little more difficult to make do without.

This is why it is a good idea to have an air purifier in your home. With an air purifier that contains an activated carbon filter, you can get rid of noxious fumes and chemicals from your household products.

AllerAir has a selection of air purifiers that cater to different needs; whether it’s for chemical and odor control, tobacco smoke or any other concerns you have with your indoor air quality. Contact us for more information.

Show your support for green living by becoming a follower of this blog.
   

Free radon test kits run out: Tennessee

Radon can only be detected
by using a testing kit
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos

The Tennessee department of environment and conservation announced earlier this month it would provide residents with free radon test kits for their homes. The deadline for requests was set for July 30^th, but the state has already run out. 

Governments in both the United States and Canada have made huge strides in educating society on the harmful effects of radon: an odorless, colorless gas that can be found in many homes across North America. This cancer-causing, radioactive gas occurs when uranium breaks down in water, rock and soil.

According to US estimates, indoor levels of radon should be no higher than 2pCi/L (picocuries per liter.) If they are, steps should be taken to reduce the levels in your home. Higher levels of radon have been detected in the Mid-West and in the North-Eastern part of the country. To check whether your region has a higher risk of radon poisoning, visit the EPA’s interactive map of the US.

Canada has a different way of measuring radon. It uses Bq/m³ (becquerels per cubic meter) and has deemed that safe levels should be 200 Bq/m³ or less.  Studies have revealed that the provinces with the highest risk for radon are New Brunswick, Manitoba, The Yukon and Saskatchewan. They all recorded concentrations of radon that were at least 16 percent above the 200 Bq/m³ maximum. For more detailed information, check out the Cross-Canada Survey of Radon Concentrations in Homes.

Both governments encourage everyone to test their homes for the presence of radon, regardless of where they live.

What to do?

Radon contains radioactive properties
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos

Before panicking, it is important for you to get more informed by reading the information both governments have provided above.

The next step is to purchase a radon test kit to see what the concentration levels may be in your home. Test kits can be found in many larger supermarkets and cost approximately 20 dollars.

If you have a radon problem, here are some tips to follow:

•  Sealing: filling up cracks in the foundation of the house is a good way to reduce the amount of radon entering your home from the ground
• Room pressurization: this is the process of blowing air into the basement either from upstairs or from outdoors; this will help keep the radon from rising into your home
•  Heat recovery ventilator: this is also called an air-to-air heat exchanger and it is a constant ventilation system of incoming and outgoing air
• Natural ventilation: this is simply the process of opening windows and doors to allow outdoor air to pass through the home and disperse the radon

NOTE: Simply sealing or naturally ventilating the home is not sufficient for counteracting radon. They must be used in conjunction with room pressurization or heat recovery ventilation to be effective.

Source: The Associated Press

Another option

Air purifiers can also help mitigate radon poisoning.  When combined with sealing and natural ventilation, air purifiers can not only help reduce radon levels in your home, but they can also clean other toxins and particles from the air by using HEPA and activated carbon filters.

Do you have any tips on how to deal with radon? Share your advice with us.

For more information on AllerAir’s air purifiers, contact us through our website.

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Indoor Air Pollution Especially Dangerous for People with COPD

According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, outdoor and indoor air pollution is especially dangerous to people with lung deficiencies, such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Here are some tips designed to help people with COPD to breathe better:

1. Smoke is one of the most dangerous pollutants that a person with COPD can inhale, and it’s also the major cause of COPD. There are over 4,000 harmful chemicals in smoke, many of which are also known to cause cancer. If you have COPD and you are a smoker, it’s still not too late to quit smoking.

2. Second-hand smoke, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada is also dangerous. People with COPD should avoid second-hand smoke as much as possible.

3. Indoor and outdoor air pollution can cause health problems, especially for people who have lung diseases. Those with COPD have a higher risk of getting sick from air pollution. Be aware of your local Air Quality Index, and stay indoors when outdoor pollution is high.

Keep in mind, indoor air is often worse than outdoor air. The EPA estimates inside air can be 5, 10 and up to 100 times worse than outdoor air. Make sure you’re getting lots of fresh air in your home.

4. Air purifiers are a great way to provide safe, clean air in your home or business. Ideally, your air purifier will combine a HEPA filter as well as pounds of activated carbon to safely eliminate chemicals, gases, odors and particles from your indoor environment.

For more information on the importance of breathing clean air, or how air purifiers can help people with COPD, please visit www.allerair.com or contact one of AllerAir’s Indoor Air Quality Experts at 1.888.852.8247.

Oahu, Hawaii Copes with Unwelcome Visitor as VOG Continues to Compromise Air Quality

Vog, or volcanic smog, emanating from erupting Kilauea Volcano on Hawaii's Big Island has blanketed Oahu, 200 miles to the northwest.

Residents of Oahu are experiencing what those living on the Big Island have long complained of: itchy eyes, sore throat and even respiratory difficulty—- all as a result of vog.

A representative from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) told the Hawaii County Local Emergency Planning Committee that there has been a vast increase in the amount of hazardous substance released from Kilauea volcano.

"We were surprised by the extent by which [the effects] could be felt," Janet Yocum, the EPA's onsite coordinator.

The Indoor Air Quality Experts at AllerAir have been hearing plenty from Hawaii residents. “We've established ourselves as the experts in carbon, and we have a proven proprietary blend of carbon designed specifically to adsorb sulfur dioxide gas(S02)which is what is being emitted from the Kilauea volcano,” said Gershon Katz, an IAQ Expert with AllerAir. “The feedback from Hawaii residents has been very positive.”

Residents of Hawaii are invited to call an AllerAir IAQ Expert at 888 852 8247 for more information of the AirMedic VOG air purifying unit and the dangers of vog exposure.

The increased amound of vog in the Hawaii area is due to a new vent that was created at Halemaumau crater. It spews thousands of tons of sulfur dioxide gas on a daily basis, which can cause breathing difficulties and respiratory illness. The gas can also aggravate heart disease.

The Dorm Dilemma: The Top 10 Solutions to Clean Dorm Air

They’re finally off to college, and you’ve got them settled into the dorm—- perhaps their very first home-away-from-home. The cleanliness of the dormitory is probably not up to your standards, but did you know that dorm rooms are also notorious sources of mold, allergens and airborne chemicals? What many students and their families don’t realize is that the result can be much more serious than a case of the sniffles.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that poor indoor air quality can affect concentration, attendance, and student performance. Airborne menaces can also seriously compromise a student’s health -- especially if the student already suffers from allergies or asthma.

Old buildings, poor air circulation, dirty carpets, used mattresses and uncontrolled humidity all contribute to the terrible air quality found in most dorms, not to mention the general apathy on the part of many students towards keeping their rooms clean and allergen-free.

The Top 10 Solutions to Clean Dorm Air
Students and their parents need to take a proactive approach to clearing the air. Here are a few strategies to consider when moving into a dorm:

10. Request a Smoke-free RoomThis is a must for those who suffer from allergies or other respiratory conditions. A letter from a physician to the school may also help your chances of landing a “clean” room.

9. Cover the Mattress
A mattress protector that completely encases the mattress will offer protection from the 100,000 to 10 million dust mites living inside it…not to mention their fecal droppings.

8. Vacuum the Carpet Often
A tough sell for many students, but necessary to keep allergens at bay. There are several compact models now available with HEPA filters for maximum protection.

7. Avoid Air Fresheners and Chemical Cleaning Products
When chemical products and artificial scents are used in small, poorly ventilated spaces there is a high probability that people in those spaces will inhale those chemicals. Chemical exposure, even at low levels, can trigger allergies and asthma attacks and may lead to long-term health problems.

6. Green Plants
A cheap and simple solution is to fill your dorm room with green plants that help to absorb your home-away-from-home’s off gassing.

5. Fresh Air
Open the windows as much as possible, if even just for a few minutes in winter.

4. Use a Dehumidifier
Moist conditions favor mold growth. Try using a dehumidifier, especially in warmer climates.

3. No Shoes Inside!
Don't wear shoes in your dorm room. They can drag in a lot of nasty airborne particles from the street.

2. Don’t Overheat
High temperatures can actually increase concentrations of particles and bioaerosols. If you can control the temperature in the dorm, don’t overheat—put on a sweater!

1. Choose the RIGHT Air Purifier
When you consider the amount of allergens, airborne toxins and odors likely to be lingering in the air, an air purifier is an absolute must for any dorm room. The key is choosing the right air purifier. Make sure to select a unit that has both a medical-grade HEPA filter for particles, and a separate activated carbon filter for chemicals, mold mycotoxins and odors. A HEPA alone can’t remove chemicals and odors-–it’s designed only for particles.

The Indoor Air Quality Experts at AllerAir say following some of these guidelines, plus incorporating a HEPA & granular carbon air purifier will make an incredible improvement to the indoor air quality in your child’s dorm room.

Cook, DuPage and 12 Other Illinois Counties Below EPA Air Quality Standard

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 14 Illinois counties, including Cook and DuPage, do not meet air quality standards for fine particles, more commonly referred to as soot.

Exposure to soot can be associated with heart or lung disease and premature death, according to the EPA. The particles can also lead to bronchitis, asthma attacks, heart attacks and other ailments.

The Indoor Air Quality Experts (IAQ) at AllerAir agree that fine particles are extremely dangerous, and are recommending that the Illinois counties that are below EPA air quality standards incorporate air purifiers into their homes and businesses.

Air purifiers are becoming the standard in relatively healthy homes across North America, but they are an absolute must in states like Illinois where the air in many of the counties is simply unfit to breathe. This is going to be especially important for children, the elderly and people with respiratory difficulties.

To speak with an Indoor Air Quality Expert about the dangers of fine particles, common indoor air pollutants or the benefits of an air purifier, call AllerAir toll free at 888.852.8247.

EPA Report Grades Wisconsin Air Quality as Poor; Madison, Dane, Brown, Columbia, Racine, Waukesha and Milwaukee Counties Affected

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently released a report that graded Wisconsin air quality as poor, specifically naming Madison, Dane, Brown, Columbia, Racine, Waukesha and Milwaukee as the counties that were most significantly affected.

While environmental measures are being debated, Air Quality Experts are urging Wisconsin residents to incorporate air purifiers into their homes to ensure that their indoor air is of superior quality.

Air quality has become a major focus for cities across North America. With people spending almost 90% of their time indoors, it’s important that they take measures to ensure the air they breathe is not making them sick.

All six counties have unacceptable levels of fine particulate matter in the air, most of which comes from coal-fired power plants, diesel-powered truck traffic and the lack of mass transportation.

AllerAir Industries has developed a full line of air purifiers, with specific cleaners designed to combat fine particulate matter. For more information on air purification and clean indoor air, visit www.allerair.com or contact an AllerAir Air Quality Expert at 888-852 8247.