Toxic Cleaning Chemicals: Reducing Chemical Exposures at School

The use of toxic cleaning chemicals in your child’s school can have a big impact on his/her health. Many chemical exposures occur at school; the Environmental Working Group (EWG) recently tested 21 cleaning products (many of which are regularly used in schools) and discovered that they release over 457 air contaminants, including chloroform and formaldehyde. These gaseous pollutants are linked to asthma and cancer, while many others are considered hazardous, with health risks that will only unfold in the future.

Over the past decade, the number of children with asthma has doubled, while childhood cancers have risen by 28 percent over the past two decades. Toxic cleaning chemicals in schools is affecting the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), as well as the frequency of chemical exposures in children. Multiple Chemical Sensitivities are becoming increasingly common worldwide, while the number of children with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome is expected to rise.

With these alarming statistics, it becomes obvious that children are left vulnerable to chemical exposures that may have both acute and long-term effects on their developing immune systems. Chemical exposures in children are far too common, and toxic cleaning chemicals are playing a leading role in this assault.

The use of toxic cleaning chemicals needs to stop. It is time to take stock of our habits and encourage schools to implement the use of green products into their housekeeping routines.   Children are more at risk of chemical exposures because their metabolic rate is higher. Also, children take more breaths than adults, and so their bodies are more susceptible to toxins.

At School, you child is faces exposure to airborne pollutants like:
· Pesticides (for pest control)
· Formaldehyde (Portable classrooms, furniture, carpets, flooring)
· Mold (leaky pipes, washrooms, etc.)
· Carbon monoxide (school buses, cars, etc.)
· Cleaning products (various hazardous variations)
· Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
· Animal dander and pollen

Schools built prior to 1980 may have lead, asbestos and even radon in their walls, while newer buildings and school furnishings may have formaldehyde, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and other gaseous and particle pollutants. Toxic cleaning products add roughly 65 more recognized toxins and carcinogens to the ambient air your child inhales for most of their day. To limit chemical exposures at school, it seems a military gas mask should be added to the school supplies list.

Children spend 90 percent of their time indoors. For a child suffering from multiple chemical sensitivities this can mean hours of torture. MCS America recommends simple tips for schools and teachers:

1)Use green cleaning products- eliminate the use of toxic cleaning
chemicals all together

2)Fix leaky pipes and remove any materials that have been damaged by water

3)Clean the air ducts regularly, and employ the use of an air filtration
system equipped with inert materials and many pounds of activated carbon

4)Implement a fragrance and smoke free policy

5)Make sure that school buses are not located in an area where air is
vented into the school.

6)If a classroom was remodeled within the last 3 years, keep your MCS
student out of there

7)In the event of a reaction, remove the student from the source and them
to fresh air immediately

8)Find out what happened for avoidance purposes

9)Be patient with your student


Avoid Portable Classrooms at All Costs

Student populations are growing in the U.S.A and as a result, the number of portable classrooms is growing. These portable classrooms have caused quite the stir among teacher’s unions and parent committees because of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) concerns.

Studies show that these classrooms have high concentrations of air pollutants like mold, formaldehyde and VOCs. Not only can a student with Multiple chemical sensitivities not step foot into these classrooms, regular students can develop multiple chemical sensitivities and other chronic diseases through repeated exposures to these hazardous airborne pollutants.

Consequently, the EPA has developed the IAQ Tools For Schools Award Program that encourages educational facilities to improve their IAQ, which can mean eliminating toxic cleaning chemicals, implementing the use of an air purifier in classrooms, and limiting their use of pesticides.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivities threaten the health and happiness of children across the globe. As parents, it’s time to take this threat very seriously. Say no to toxic cleaning chemicals, your children deserve better.

AllerAir Deals for May: $50 off the purchase of any unit

In recognition of MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity) awareness month we’re offering $50 off the purchase of any unit. For your coupon code visit http://www.allerair.com/. Click on the MCS button, then “Gift Certificate Code”. The coupon code is valid until June 15, 2010 and is only applicable towards the purchase of a unit (not valid for filters, test kits or accessories). Offer limited to one coupon per purchase.

AllerAir is Spreading MCS Awareness (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity)

This May, AllerAir is supporting Multiple Chemical Sensitivities and Chemical Injury Associations worldwide in their effort to spread Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome awareness.


AllerAir will make chemical awareness tips and a $50.00 gift certificate available via their website at http://www.allerair.com/. The gift certificate is valid until June 15, 2010 and can be used towards the purchase of any unit. Additionally, their blogs and articles will be dedicated to Multiple Chemical Sensitivities and chemical awareness topics for the month of May.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivities affect over 48 million Americans. The onset of this debilitating medical condition can cause an allergy-like reaction to even low levels of chemical exposure. Often referred to as Toxic Injury or Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, the onset of Multiple Chemical Sensitivities depends on either a single highly toxic chemical encounter, or repeated low-level chemical exposures.

Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome hits close to home for AllerAir president, Sam Teitelbaum. He discovered the reality of chemical injury when a close relative was diagnosed with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities in 1990. Since then, Sam has made it his mission to provide the chemically sensitive with the most inert air purifiers available.

According to Sam, "There are millions of people suffering today because of chemical injury and poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). At AllerAir, we are committed to air quality education and chemical injury prevention and relief. Millions of people have been affected by multiple chemical sensitivities, but the proliferation of airborne chemicals means that millions more will suffer unless we take stock of our indoor air quality."

A Cornell study in 2007 revealed that over 3 million tons of toxins and hazardous chemicals are released into the air annually. This does not include the pesticides used indoors, nor the hundreds of carcinogens found in cleaning products, fragrances and cosmetics. This May, learn more about Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, and how to protect your family.


AllerAir Since 1996

AllerAir's smart design solutions provide the most effective balance of performance, safety, quality and price. AllerAir air purifiers are equipped with many pounds of activated carbon, which is proven to be the most efficient way to treat toxic chemicals and gases. AllerAir's Multiple Chemical Sensitivity air purifiers are built with the most inert products, and clients are able to test and select their own carbon with the carbon test kit. Chemical exposure is linked to organ and central immune system damage, respiratory disorders and cancer.

Avoiding The Dangers of Pesticides & Eating Healthier for Symptom Relief

The dangers of pesticides are present every time you take a bite of your favorite fruit. Eating a healthy diet for chemical allergy relief means being aware of the dangers of pesticides.

Firstly, it's important to remember that no two people are alike; therefore, there is no single diet that will work for everyone. Selecting a diet that is right for you is very personal, but here are a few things to consider.

Making Smart Choices

The dangers of pesticides are universal. After conducting 96,000 tests, the EWG contends that it is wise to not only wash fruits and vegetables, but to eat the right kinds of produce to reduce chemical exposure. Eat as much organically grown food as possible; limiting the consumption of fruits and vegetables with high levels of pesticide residues will help reduce the dangers of pesticides by reducing exposure by almost 80%.

The EWG recommends:
Vegetables

• Asparagus
• Cabbage
• Eggplant
• Sweet Potatoes
• Onions

Fruits

• Pineapples
• Mangos
• Kiwis
• Cantaloupe
• Watermelon

Purchase organic when venturing into the produce aisle for:
Vegetables

• Celery
• Bell Peppers
• Spinach
• Kale
• Potatoes

Fruits

• Strawberries
• Peaches
• Apples
• Nectarines
• Blueberries

Eat healthy; diets rich in minerals like magnesium help improve your immune system. Whenever possible, try to get your nutrients from food sources, and make sure to avoid foods with preservatives. Phenolic compounds present in preservatives and pesticides are capable of triggering the release of arachidonic acid. The release of this acid can lead to inflammation.

Achlorhydria is fairly common among people suffering with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities. What this means is that their bodies experience difficulty when it comes to vitamin B12 absorption. In this instance, it is important to take the necessary steps to lower the stomach’s pH. Taking vitamin supplements rich in minerals and vitamin B12 are recommended; however, be mindful of supplements that contain additives.

When making food choices, focus on symptom relief and on boosting your immune system. The dangers of pesticides are ever present, so avoidance is the key. From here on, be prepared to carefully select your own produce, cook your own meals, and drink plenty of spring water from glass bottles. Tap water is never an option.

Once you begin implementing your new habits and drinking eight glasses of spring water per day, you’ll feel the difference. If drinking this much water seems a daunting task, try these three easy tips:
1. Always carry water with you.
2. Schedule water breaks
3. Before reaching for soft drinks or juice, drink water.

This information is not meant to replace sound medical advice, but it will help. The dangers of pesticides threaten everything that matters---good health.







.

May is Multiple Chemical Sensitivities Month

May is Multiple Chemical Sensitivities month.  For those living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, it is no easy feat.  The onset of this debilitating medical condition can cause an allergy-like reaction to even low levels of chemical exposure. There are over 48 million Americans suffering from Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.


For those suffering with chemical allergies there are little things you can do to maintain your quality of life. Although there is currently no cure for Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome, there are ways to take control of your symptoms. This May, AllerAir is providing small, but significant suggestions.


Step 1: Detoxify Your Home

Living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities means taking the necessary steps to detoxify your home. The best relief for those suffering with multiple chemical sensitivities is avoidance, which means removing pollutants. Reducing the number of triggers found in your home can deliver some much-needed relief. Take the time to detoxify your home---it’s the best thing you can do for your health.

So, what’s polluting your indoor air? Start by removing pollutants like:

Pesticides, petrochemicals, second hand smoke, mold, formaldehyde and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are found in homes across North America. The dangers of chemicals are present whether it’s asbestos in the walls of an old home, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from home furnishings, or the carcinogenic chemicals found in cleaning products.

A few well-known culprits include:

· Perfumes

· Pesticides

· Cigarette smoke

· Air pollution caused by photocopiers

· Paint fumes, glues, solvents (Volatile Organic Compounds VOCs)

· Formaldehyde (found in furniture, carpet and other types of flooring)

· Petroleum products

· Cleaning products

· Beauty products like hairspray and perfume


How to detoxify your home
Tips:

1) If you’re not a smoker steer clear of second hand smoke.  There are over 4,000 chemicals emitted by just one cigarette. Ask visitors to refrain from smoking prior to visiting you, but keep in mind the smell of cigarettes may still be lingering on their clothing.

2) Avoid the use of bug sprays and other pesticides in your home. Always ask guests to remove their shoes before entering your home; pesticides can be insidious. Talk to your neighbors about the dangers of pesticide use on their lawns.

3) Invest in chemical-free enzyme cleaners, or even a package of baking soda. The Environmental Working Group discovered over 457 hazardous chemicals in 20 household cleaners. Natural enzyme cleansers are capable of removing stains, grease and bacteria, without the harrowing effects of chloroform, benzene and formaldehyde.

4) Avoid aerosols, plug-ins and scented candles; they mask odors and contribute to indoor air pollution. The EWG found 89 air contaminants known to cause organ system toxicity as well as endocrine and neurotoxicity. Opt for compact, portable cases of granular activated carbon, which are brilliant in litter boxes, refrigerators and closets.

5) Fix leaks in your home promptly, and always shower with the fan on to avoid mold. Aside from spawning irritants and allergens, molds release hazardous mycotoxins. Mycotoxin is one of the most hazardous indoor air pollutants, because of its ability to cause neurological damage, especially in children.

6) Buy wood furniture; pressed wood products generally contain formaldehyde. You may also wish to remove carpets and window dressings as they tend to out-gas air contaminants.

7) Stay away from plastic shower curtains. A recent study revealed that over 108 VOCs were released in less than a month. Concentrations of these chemicals are even higher after you shower.

8) Newer homes tend to be airtight, proper ventilation and the use of an air purifier is strongly recommended.

9) An air purifier can help, but not just any air purifier---do your homework. The air purifier you chose will not provide a cure to all of your problems, but it will help. For people suffering with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, carbon+HEPA technology is mandatory. Only an air purifier manufactured with the most inert parts available will do the trick

Seasonal Allergies Making Your Life Miserable? Blame Your SUV.

If you’re among the millions who suffer from allergies and allergic asthma, you know that this allergy season has been particularly bad and we all may be to blame.

According to a new report, our warming planet is creating the perfect conditions for a significant increase in pollen levels and bumper fall crops of ragweed in the years to come.

The National Wildlife Federation and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America reports that the changes will affect more than just your Kleenex consumption, but will cost the American economy more than $32 billion dollars in lost productivity, missed workdays and medical costs stemming directly from allergies.

Amanda Staudt, a climate scientist at the Wildlife Federation says that spring conditions are already arriving two weeks earlier than 20 years ago. She says that these longer growing seasons will produce even more allergy-provoking pollen and may allow highly allergenic trees like oaks and hickories to start replacing pines, spruces and firs that generally don't trigger allergies.

To cap off the bad news, the worst allergy-inducing plant, ragweed, will actually thrive over a longer, warmer growing season. In fact, there’s evidence that ragweed actually grows faster as carbon dioxide levels increase in our atmosphere.

Harvard University researchers reported similar results in 2002 study .
Hum…maybe we shouldn't be driving military vehicles to the grocery store after all.


Allergy Tip:
Speak to your HR manager or supervisor at work about installing air purifiers in your office.

Most companies are on the look-out for ways to cut absenteeism and implement “green” initiatives. Clean air has been proven to have a direct impact on productivity and employee satisfaction. A room air cleaner with a medical-grade HEPA filter will remove 99.97% of airborne pollen and other allergens. Check out AllerAir’s AirMedic that also remove airborne chemicals, gases and odors.

Air Purifier Reviews - AllerAir

We take the responsibility of providing clean air and air purifiers for the home  very seriously at AllerAir. So it's especially gratifying for the staff when we hear about all of the home-owners who love our units. These are a few of the air purifier reviews I found today:

"Research carefully and you will discover that AllerAir is and has been always at the top of best models. It is one this writer recommends for optimal health. Whatever you decide upon, your family needs clean air and this is something not to be ignored."

http://www.gogreenwitheverything.com/air-purifier-for-the-home.html

"This Air Purifier made a big difference. We had a paint-type chemical smell in our house from some toxic sealant used on our floors and other outgassing. It definitely reduced the smell and was easy to move around on the wheels."

http://www.amazon.com/AllerAir-VoCarb-Purifier-Model-5000/product-reviews/B000METOV0/ref=dp_db_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1

"The allerair 5000 is a fantastic air purifier. Within 15 minutes of turning it on the entire house is essentially beautifully filtered clean air. No paint or other types of chemicals, dust, or allergens. I have conditional mcs and the filtration allows me a very much needed normal homelife. On the low setting the product is barely audible. It becomes quit loud though on the two higher settings."

http://www.amazon.com/AllerAir-VoCarb-Purifier-Model-5000/product-reviews/B000METOV0/ref=dp_db_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1

Editor's note: Yes the higher speeds are louder; however we recommend that the two higher settings are used for a quick room clean-out only. Air purifiers with deep-bed activated carbon filters actually work better on the lowest setting because the air "dwells" longer in the carbon filter, allowing more chemicals, gases and odors to be trapped. Our units are actually designed to be used 24/7 on low and only use about as much energy as a 40 watt light bulb!

Thanks for the great reviews!
Stephanie

Air Pollution Affecting Historical Artifacts Worldwide, Even Indoors

The Taj Mahal is turning yellow.

Greece’s Parthenon and Egypt’s pyramids are showing signs of serious decay.

500 year old statues in Florence, Italy which were restored only nine years ago are now pockmarked and covered in black scum.

These vital links to our past and our humanity are not being damaged by vandals, earthquakes or even acid rain, but by air pollution.

For many countries the problem has become so insurmountable that where possible, important monuments have been moved indoors.

Unfortunately, conservationists have found that the decay doesn’t end there. Museum curators and archivists are also struggling with preserving art and other historical documents from indoor air pollution.

In 1985 the Getty Conservation Institute began researching the risks of atmospheric pollutants on museum collections as well as possible remedies and solutions.

Among their findings, they determined that ozone concentrations within museums fitted with activated carbon air filtration units were generally quite low (ozone causes fading and discoloration).

Activated carbon is also effective on numerous other pollutants which can affect artifacts, including formaldehyde, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, formic acid and acetic acid.

Cultural facilities property should address these contaminants in order to preserve their collections, before pollutants will cause irreparable damage.

Contact AllerAir or its industrial division Electrocorp for suitable air filtration solutions.
  

Air Pollution Linked to Heart Disease; The Number One Killer of Canadian and American Women

I, like thousands other women watched Canadian figure skater Joannie Rochette perform last night with tears in my eyes. This young Olympian, on the brink of the most exciting week of her life, lost her mother to a massive heart attack on Sunday morning. Therese Rochette was only 55 years old – tragic and all too common in North America.

Mistakenly thought of as a male health issue, heart disease is actually the number one killer of women over the age of 55 in both Canada and the United States. In fact, almost twice as many women die from heart related aliments than from all forms of cancer.

Researchers are beginning to see that this staggering health problem stems not only from lifestyle issues, but environmental factors as well. Only last week researchers at the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California , announced that their studies show that exposure to air pollution accelerates the thickening of artery walls that leads to heart disease. The problem was especially serious for those who lived next to a heavy pollution source which caused the thickening to progress twice as fast as for those who lived farther away.

Chemical exposure may also play a role in heart disease. In January, researchers reported that elevated exposure to bisphenol A seemed associated with a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular disease. It’s the second time researchers have made a connection between the controversial plastic compound and heart problems.

While these environmental factors definitely warrant more study, there are also numerous established risk factors that women can also address:


Tobacco Smoke:
While it’s no surprise that smokers have a higher risk of having a heart attack, many women don’t realize that regular exposure to second-hand smoke also puts them at greater risk.

Inactivity:
Physically inactive women double their risk of developing heart problems. As little as 30-minutes of exercise four times a week could lower the risk.

High Blood Pressure:
Also called hypertension, this condition forces the heart muscle to work harder and causes damage to blood vessels, making them more likely to clog.

Body Weight:
Weight has a direct effect on a woman’s risk of developing heart disease. Experts say that even losing a small amount of weight can make a difference.

Top 10 Myths About Air Purifiers

1. The “Clean Air Delivery Rate” is a clear way to compare all air cleaners.
Many air cleaners are marketed with a “CADR” rating. This rating is based on a test used by a trade organization; The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers. Their test measures an air cleaner’s ability to reduce airborne solid particulate matter and does not test a unit’s ability to reduce gases, odors or microbiological components, which the AHAM says is “outside the scope” of their test. Therefore, if you’re shopping for an air cleaner to reduce airborne chemicals, gases and odors, the CADR rating is not applicable. The only clear way to compare these air cleaners is by filtration media. For example a unit with many pounds of activated carbon will be able to adsorb vastly more pollutants than a thin filter with a sprayed-on layer of carbon. Depth is also an important consideration. The more carbon the pollutants are forced to travel through, the better chance they have of getting caught. So if a carbon filter is three inches deep, it will perform more efficiently that a filter that’s one inch deep.

2. You should buy an air purifier to match the square footage of your room.
Many consumers don’t realize that most recommendations based on square footage only take into account an empty room. Air doesn’t flow as efficiently in rooms with lots of furniture so it’s advisable to ask for a product recommendation based on your most prominent air quality concerns and lifestyle needs.

3. HEPA air purifiers are the most effective.
The poor air quality affecting most homes and businesses today is directly influenced by the numerous everyday products that off-gas chemicals and odors. While an air cleaner with a HEPA (high efficiency particle air) filter is the gold standard in particle filtration; it can’t remove airborne chemicals. Therefore, HEPA alone can not be considered the most effective filtration method.

4. All air purifiers can remove smoke, fumes and odors.
In fact most air purifiers on the market today can not remove any type of airborne chemical, gas or odor. Many online buying guides actually warn consumers to be wary of units which make these claims. That’s because so few air purifiers contain the type of filtration required to extract anything other than dust and other particles. It’s the same principle as equipping a solider with a gas mask that can only remove dust. It wouldn’t offer any protection against airborne toxins because the technology isn’t designed to remove chemicals. AllerAir units were designed primarily to treat the dangerous air borne toxins that other units leave behind. We use the deep bed activated carbon filters as well as a HEPA filters effectively remove smoke, chemicals, gases odors and particles.

5. The most important characteristic of an air purifier is how much dust it can remove.
Dust isn’t the most serious threat to our health when it comes to indoor air pollution, so why buy an air cleaner that only removes dust and other particles? An air purifier should remove all the components of air pollution including chemicals, gases and odors.

6. An air purifier is a luxury item.
Of the thousands of chemicals used in consumer products only a handful have been tested for their effects on humans, even fewer for their effects on children. Chemical lobbyists often tout that their products contain “below legal limits” of a particular toxin, however science is only beginning to study the cumulative effect of life-long exposure to a barrage of chemicals. It will likely be decades or longer before government regulators move to ban harmful chemicals. For more and more average consumers, an air purifier is no longer being seen as a luxury item, but a powerful tool in preventing exposure to common airborne chemicals.

7. Air purifiers can’t contribute to air pollution.
Sounds illogical that a device which claims to clean your air may actually be contributing to your poor indoor air quality, but units that use ozone to clean the air or are made with mostly plastic, styrofoam and other synthetic materials may actually be off-gassing chemicals.

8. Only those who have asthma, allergies or some other illness need an air purifier.
Actually anyone can benefit from cleaner air. According to the World Heath Organization 2.4 million people worldwide die each year from causes directly related to air pollution. That’s three times the number of people who die in car accidents. The simple truth is that if you don’t have an air purifier your lungs are the only thing filtering the air you breathe. Unfortunately, lungs can’t be replaced as easily as a dirty air filter.

9. An air purifier is the “magic bullet” for indoor air quality problems.
While an air purifier can be a key tool in fighting indoor air pollution it can’t solve all air quality problems instantly. It is always advisable to try and address the source of any major factors contributing to poor air quality. Prime examples are mold and radon which must be property remediated. A room affected by long-term smoking meanwhile, may take days, weeks or longer to show a major improvement as the odors and chemicals have likely permeated walls, upholstered furniture and draperies.

10. All air purifiers are basically the same.
Air purifiers vary greatly in design, filtration methods, level of efficiency and price, however very few actually target the wide-range of contaminants present in indoor air. That’s why we believe that carbon filters are a necessity. Why spend the money on an air purifier if your lungs are left to filter airborne chemicals?

VOG (volcanic smog): Higher incidence of thyroid cancer in volcanic area

People living in volcanic areas may be at a higher risk for thyroid cancer, according to a new study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

The increasing incidence of thyroid cancer has been attributed to more sensitive screening, but recent evidence indicates that this may not be the only cause. Various environmental factors, such as those associated with volcanoes, have not been excluded as risk factors.

Gabriella Pellegriti, M.D., Ph.D., of the endocrinology division, University of Catania Medical School, Garibaldi-Nesima Hospital in Italy, and colleagues collected incidence [newly diagnosed cases] of thyroid cancers in Sicily from January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2004 to compare the cancer rates of residents living in the volcanic area of Mt. Etna of Catania with those in the rest of Sicily.

The researchers found that residents of the Catania province had a more than two times higher incidence of papillary thyroid cancer, but not follicular or medullary thyroid cancers, than elsewhere on the island. Also, papillary tumors from patients in Catania more frequently carried the BRAF V600E gene mutation, which has been associated with more aggressive thyroid cancer.

The authors point out that a volcanic environment—which can produce toxic compounds that are suspended particulate matter and gases and elements that may pollute the water—may increase the incidence of thyroid cancer; however, the mechanism by which it affects risk is unknown.

"The striking increase in papillary thyroid cancer incidence that was associated with the Etna volcanic environment leads us to suggest that residents of other volcanic areas…could be at increased risk for thyroid cancer and, possibly, of other cancers," the authors write. "Although specific risk factors for thyroid cancer in this volcanic environment are still unknown, identification of these factors could help to better understand the cause(s) of the increasing thyroid cancer incidence in Europe and North America and perhaps to develop prevention measures."

AllerAir has customized air purifiers which are currently being used by clients in Hawaii for VOG and sulfur dioxide. These units feature a special carbon blend which targets the gaseous components specific to volcanic by-products, as well as medical-grade HEPA filtration for fine airborne particles. Call today for a customized recommendation 1-888-852-8247. We have over 40 blends of carbon to target numerous air quality issues. Trusted by home-owners and professionals world-wide!

AllerAir Battling Toxic Chinese Drywall

AllerAir Industries develops filters to combat gases that can threaten house occupants

By MIKE KING, The Gazette

A Montreal air purification firm has joined forces with Spiderman to battle what has become known as toxic Chinese drywall, which is ailing North American homeowners and damaging their residences.

AllerAir Industries Inc. is working with Spiderman Mulholland, a leading U.S. forensic expert on the effects of water intrusion on buildings and toxic mould, to find a solution to the harmful gases emitted from the construction product imported from China between 2001 and 2006.

"We developed a carbon filter unit specifically to reduce the hydrogen sulfide (that has been found to leach from the drywall)," AllerAir president Sam Teitelbaum said from the company's manufacturing plant in St. Laurent. "In a 24-hour test, there was an 85-per-cent reduction."

AllerAir was contacted a few months ago by Mulholland, whose Florida-based U.S. Building Consultants Inc. has a government-accredited testing facility that can determine toxic-drywall problems.

It was there a pair of AllerAir systems - a modified model of its industrial RSU carbon filter machine for large surfaces and the RAP-H2S for smaller residential areas- were successfully tested.

As a result of those findings, Mulholland has ordered 25 more units to test on affected homes in the Sunshine State.

His laboratory analysis of the drywall found 11 sulphur compounds and contaminants to which prolonged exposure may cause serious problems to the nervous system.

Some of the serious health conditions and illnesses attributed to those sulphide gases include shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, fatigue, insomnia, eye irritations and respiratory difficulties.

Often, occupants are forced to leave their homes.

"As of now, we have the only machines allowing people (experiencing problems from the Chinese drywall) to continue living in their homes," noted Henri Chero, sales, marketing and design consultant at AllerAir.

The systems are priced from $1,000 to $8,000, depending on the size of the unit.

While initial estimates are that more than 100,000 homes had Chinese drywall installed across the U.S. during the building boom that followed after hurricanes Wilma and Katrina depleted domestic drywall supplies, Chero said that number could easily triple.

The crisis some are calling the worst case of sick houses in U.S. history has hit 41 states and is starting to be felt in Canada.

Cases have been reported in the Lower Mainland of B.C., Calgary and Toronto.

In cases where there is high humidity, sulfuric acid is created, which can result in failure to home heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems as well as electrical appliances, copper coils turning black, corroded electrical wiring, tarnished silver jewellery or utensils and light bulbs burning out at a faster rate.

To date, several lawsuits have been filed against German drywall manufacturer Knauf KG, its Chinese plasterboard units and U.S. home builders.

On the Web: www.allerair.com or www.chinesedrywallsolution.info

Spring Cleaning for Allergy Sufferers A Real Must: Dust Mites, Pet Dander & Household Mold Beware!

Like clockwork, every year, my husband turns into a real grump. He sniffles, he sneezes and he glares at me for a few key reasons: I keep a huge flower garden (in the front yard and back yard), I have two cats (one of which has extremely long hair, and lots of it) and perhaps most importantly, because I don’t suffer from allergies.

And so the yearly spring-cleaning routine begins. Our target is to get the major allergy culprits like dust mites, pet dander and household mold, while giving any rugs, drapes and upholstery a deep cleaning.

Another allergy trigger that people often overlook is the actual cleaning product that they’re using in the spring-cleaning. Chemical household cleaners can contribute to headaches and allergies, as well as being especially toxic to anybody with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) or someone with even minor reactions to chemicals.

We don’t promote our 100% all-natural cleaning products very often, simply because our main focus is on our air purifiers, but I’m going to slip a worthwhile plug here, because I have to say, these products are really superb. As someone who always thought that you couldn’t get the same level of clean with a green cleaning product, I have officially changed my mind.

And since many allergy sufferers are actually allergic to mold, AllerAir’s Mold Away is a great choice because it contains no fragrances, is 100% all natural and uses the power of billions of natural enzymes to clean away dirt, germs and mold.

With more than 20 percent of Americans suffering from allergies, and symptoms ranging from itchy, watery eyes, persistent cough, sneezing and runny nose, the demand for relief is now reaching unprecedented numbers. While there is no real cure for allergies, it is possible to relieve symptoms by reducing or eliminating exposure to allergens.

I think it’s safe to say, that most people are aware of pollen, dust, pet dander and other airborne particles as major contributors to allergies. But airborne chemicals and mold spores can also contribute to allergy symptoms, albeit to a smaller percentage of people.

Since some people are allergic to particles, others to chemicals and still others to mold particles, our air purification recommendation includes a three-step approach.

1. Medical-HEPA filtration for particles
2. Deep-bed carbon filter for chemicals
3. UV light for mold

Allergy Air Purification System Recommendations

5000 Exec with UV Option



6000 Exec with UV Option



AirMedic+



Call us at 888.852.8247 to ask us about our 100% all-natural cleaning products—great for moldy bathrooms and kitchens, and for allergy sufferers too! For more information on our full line of air purifiers, ideal for removing airborne chemicals, particles and mold spores, please visit www.allerair.com.

HELP—My Apartment Has Mold!

A call we receive a lot is from apartment renters who have problems with mold. They’ve told their superintendent that a mold problem exists, they’ve tried to remediate the mold themselves and they’ve even tried to break their lease. But often, apartment dwellers are stuck between superintendents who just don’t care and the fear that their health is at stake.

Many apartment dwellers complain of increased sinus infections, upper respiratory infections—even bronchitis, pneumonia and far worse. But still their pleas go unanswered. Their illnesses checked off as a figment of their imagination, or not the responsibility of the apartment owner. And the mold remains. And the situation worsens.

Can Air Purifiers REALLY Help?
Air purifiers are certainly a viable, affordable option for renters with mold problems, especially since many of them are looking for a temporary solution until they can have the problem resolved permanently, or find a new place to live. Either of which is advisable.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again—air purifiers cannot remove mold.

What air purifiers can do is filter the dangerous mold spores and mycotoxins that are produced as a byproduct of mold, and which can also make you sick. Very sick.

A Common Mistake
A common mistake that people make when purchasing an air purifier for mold is stopping at a HEPA-only air purifier. Indeed, HEPA filters play an integral role in the filtering of mold particles and spores, but as we will explore in the Recommendations below, they fall short of providing a complete solution.

Beware of Ozone Air Purifiers
Now before we get to the solution, I want to add (just in case some of you don’t make it to the end of this blog) a word about air purifiers that emit ozone to clean indoor air of pollutants, such as mold. According to the EPA, “whether in its pure form or mixed with other chemicals, ozone can be harmful to health.” Moreover, “if used at concentrations that do not exceed public health standards, ozone applied to indoor air does not effectively remove viruses, bacteria, mold, or other biological pollutants.”

In a nutshell, ozone air purifiers can be dangerous, AND even if they weren’t, they don’t work anyway.

Recommendations
AllerAir recommends air purifiers that combine a HEPA filtration system, a deep bed of activated carbon and UV light technology.

1. HEPA
No question, HEPA is a key ingredient in the war against mold. The HEPA filter serves to trap 99.97% of the mold particles. However, something to keep in mind when dealing with mold. When choosing a HEPA filter, make sure that the lid (that holds the web of fibers together) is not made of cardboard, as this is an ideal food source for mold. A better choice would be a lid made of metal or polyurethane.

2. A Deep Bed of Activated Carbon
The activated carbon works to adsorb that musty smell that is associated with mold and adsorbs its harmful mycotoxin gases. The deeper the carbon filter, the better the adsorption capacity. An acceptable filter depth might be around 2”, but a better filter depth would measure closer to 3” or 3.5”.

Your carbon filter is important because it dictates the dwell time that a pollutant remains in the air purifier. The deeper the filter, the longer the dwell time. The longer the dwell time, the better the adsorption of the air pollutant.

3. UV Light
The UV light’s role is to sterilize any mold spores that are not trapped by the HEPA filter. This may seem irrelevant considering the HEPA traps 99.97% of the spores, but when it comes to mold, even the .03% that escape the HEPA filter can be enough to propagate a new mold problem. Plus, UV light technology also sterilizes bacteria and viruses, so if you’ve invested in a good air purification system, it just makes good sense to cover all your bases.

Why Invest in an Air Purifier if I’m Going to Eventually Leave My Mold-infested Apartment Anyway?
If today you rent a mold-infested apartment, then you need protection. The great thing about air purifiers, really, is that they serve many purposes. This means, when you move into your next home, you can use this same air purifier for general improved indoor air quality, or to remove Volatile Organic Chemicals (VOC’s) that are generated through new home furnishings and renovations. In fact, you can use your air purifier for a myriad of indoor air quality solutions—mold just happens to be one of the many great applications.

Ideal AllerAir Air Purifiers for Mold

AirMedic+ with UV Technology



5000 Exec with UV Technology



6000 Exec with UV Technology



For more information on air purification solutions for mold, please visit www.allerair.com, or call one of AllerAir’s Indoor Air Quality Experts at 888.852.8247. You can also send an email to us at info@allerair.com.

Got industrial-sized indoor air quality problems? We’ve got industrial-sized solutions!

Report: Third-hand Smoke Dangerous for Children

It’s a fairly new buzzword, and it’s making waves in and outside the indoor air quality (IAQ) industry. It’s called ‘third-hand smoke’. The term refers to the lingering toxic particles that remain on clothing, hair, furniture and various other surfaces long after a cigarette has been stubbed out. New research shows that these particles can be especially dangerous to babies and children, who can inhale these lingering poisons.

Most smokers and non-smokers alike have heard of the dangers of first- and second-hand smoke. The indoor air quality industry answers a large demand from both smokers (who don’t want to bother non-smokers) and non-smokers (who are bothered by smokers).

Certainly AllerAir doesn’t put itself in the position of condemning or condoning smoking, whether indoors or outdoors, but we will be the first to express the negative effects smoking has on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ).

According to Health Canada, Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) is a combination of exhaled smoke and the smoke produced by an idling cigarette, cigar or pipe. It consists of solid particles, liquids and gases.

Over 4,000 different chemical compounds have been identified in ETS, including nicotine, carbon monoxide, ammonia, formaldehyde, arsenic, dioxins and furans. More than 50 of these substances are known carcinogens. Others are known or suspected mutagens, capable of changing the genetic structure of cells.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently declared ETS to be a class-A-carcinogen, since many of its components are also found in industrial effluents where they are treated as hazardous waste.

According to the EPA, children's exposure to secondhand smoke is responsible for:

1. Increases in the number of asthma attacks and severity of symptoms in 200,000 to 1,000,000 children with asthma
2. Between 150,000 and 300,000 lower respiratory tract infections (for children under 18 months of age)
3. Respiratory tract infections resulting in 7,500 to 15,000 hospitalizations each year

We feel the best way to avoid the dangers associated with first, second and third-hand smoke is to stop smoking altogether. For those who do smoke, or who are surrounded by smokers, AllerAir has a full line of air purifiers designed specifically to tackle the dangerous properties of smoke.

Available in our 5000 and 6000 series, our smokers’ units are equipped with:
· Deep (“DS”) or extra-deep (“DX S”) carbon beds to adsorb the dangerous particles, chemicals and odors associated with cigarettes, cigars and other alternative smoking products
· Unique tar-trapping filters to collect the sticky tar droplets associated with cigarettes, which clog conventional air cleaners
· Between 24 lbs. and 36 lbs. pounds of activated carbon

For more information on air purification systems for smoking applications, contact 888.852.8247 to speak to one of AllerAir's Indoor Air Quality Experts, or visit www.allerair.com and click on Tobacco Smoke.

Study Reveals Dangers of Third-Hand Smoke

A recent study published in the journal Pediatrics reveals interesting research that gives smokers one more reason to keep their New Year’s resolution to quit smoking.

According to the research, lead by Dr. Jonathan Winickoff, even if a smoker goes outside for a puff, the lingering smell of smoke, dubbed ‘third-hand smoke’, can be harmful to others, especially children.

Most smokers are well aware of the dangers of smoking and second-hand smoke, but this research reveals that the brew of gases and particles associated with cigarettes adheres to clothing, furniture, hair, carpeting and a host of other things that smokers come in contact with, and can affect the health of others long after the cigarette has been stubbed out.

So even if you smoke when nobody’s home, third-hand smoke still lurks; the toxins are just as harmful, but invisible.

AllerAir has designed a full line of air purifiers to adsorb the dangerous toxins associated with cigarettes, cigars and other smoking alternatives. Our Smoking Series of air cleaners are equipped with a deep carbon bed, a HEPA filtration system, as well as a unique tar-trapping pre-filter to provide the most advanced adsorption of harmful smoking chemicals.

For more information, contact one of our Indoor Air Quality Experts at 888.852.8247 or visit www.allerair.com.

MOLD: An Indoor Air Quality Nightmare

Respiratory difficulty. Allergies. Sick Building Syndrome. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Fibromyalgia. Cancer. Death.

Toxic mold can be responsible for serious conditions, illnesses and even death. In the 1930’s Stachybotrys Chartarum, or green mold, was responsible for the deaths of farm animals in Russia after it was found growing on wet grain used for feeding the animals.

In 2005, mold toxin made its way into pet food supply, which consequently led to the death of dozens of dogs.

Earlier that same year, after 2-year old Neveah Lair died, her mother along with 68 other apartment tenants filed a lawsuit, blaming the building for not addressing its mold problem.

There have been thousands upon thousands of other similar stories about the health consequences of mold.

Mold illness has become a controversial issue. Just as asbestos was the health nightmare of the 1980’s and 1990’s, buildings contaminated by mold biotoxins have become the scourge of the 21st century.

Mold spores may be found lying dormant on almost every surface. Unless large numbers of spores become airborne, there is usually little problem. However, when mold spores are on a surface with appropriate moisture content, nutrients, and temperature, the spores will germinate and mold will grow. Ideal breeding grounds for mold are kitchens, bathrooms, windows and basements, but virtually any place will do. In just 48 hours, a moist environment combined with room-temperature conditions and an organic food source can lead to mold growth.

Not all molds are dangerous for your health; indeed, one of the most well-know types of molds is penicillin, which has saved millions of lives. Black mold, however, also known as Stachybotrys Chartarum, is a toxic greenish-black fungi found worldwide that colonizes particularly well in high-cellulose material such as straw, hay, wet leaves, dry wall, carpet, wall paper, fiber-board, ceiling tiles, thermal insulation, etc. The fungus, before drying, is wet and slightly slimy to touch.

3 Signs of a Potential Mold Problem

1. High Humidity
If you live in a high-humidity area, then you should always be wary of mold. A relative humidity (RH) level of greater than 55% promotes the growth of mold and other fungi. Monitor the rooms of your home, and use a dehumidifier if need be.

2. Water Damage/Flooding
The more moisture mold is exposed to, the more it thrives. When water damage or flooding occurs, the damp environment is conducive to aggressive mold growth. If water damage remains hidden, or if it takes several days to dry out flooding damage, mold has ample opportunity to grow.

3. Musty/Mildew Smell
Mold often grows in areas that are unseen, like behind walls, in crawl spaces or beneath a carpet or flooring. If you smell a musty/mildew odor, it may be a sign you have a mold problem. Further investigation is recommended.

What Kind of Air Purifiers Best Combat Mold?
There are definite ways to combat mold. The best way is to control the amount of moisture in your home or business, thus avoiding a mold problem before it begins. That said, air purifiers offer an additional level of protection.

The ideal air purifier to combat mold will combine 3 essential technologies: HEPA, UV and a deep bed of carbon, with the most important focus being on the UV technology.

· The HEPA filters work to remove 99.97% of airborne mold particles
· The UV light then sterilizes any mold spores that are not trapped by the HEPA filter
· The deep carbon bed creates increased dwell time in the air purifier, which is key to adsorbing the strong odors and gases associated with mold

Best Unit Recommendations

The 5000 Exec with UV
· 18 lbs. of carbon, 2.5” carbon bed
· Medical-grade HEPA
· UV light

AirMedic+ with UV
· 18 lbs. of carbon, 2” carbon bed
· Medical-grade HEPA
· UV light
· The AirMedic series features 360-degree air intake which provides enhanced surface area contact, thus improving mold spore filtration

Source Removal
If a mold problem is present in a home or office, the source of the mold growth must be removed. An air purifier can work to remove the harmful effects of mold, but source removal is essential if the problem is to be resolved permanently.

Study: Clean Air = Longer Life

A recent study by Brigham Young University and Harvard School of Public Health reveals that breathing cleaner air can add about five months to your life.

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, we ask, what better gift for your loved one than cleaner air, and a longer life together?

AllerAir manufactures a full line of air purifiers for home and businesses across the globe. For more information, contact one of our Indoor Air Quality Experts at 888.852.8247 or visit www.allerair.com.

Airborne Chemicals to Blame for Travolta Death?

It’s always a shame when it takes a tragedy to shed light on an otherwise much-ignored topic. Shortly into the New Year, on Friday January 2, 16-year old Jett Travolta, son of acclaimed actor John Travolta, was found dead at his family’s vacation home in the Bahamas.

The cause of the young boy’s death will not be known until the results of the autopsy can be analyzed and released to the public. It is known that Jett had a seizure, and hit his head on a bathtub when he collapsed.

The family, however, has long upheld that Jett suffered from Kawasaki disease, a condition that is largely misunderstood, and under-researched. It is also difficult to diagnose since there are no known tests that can confirm or deny its presence.

According to a Children's Hospital Boston / Harvard Medical school information page on the disease, “Some studies have found associations between the occurrence of Kawasaki disease and recent exposure to carpet cleaning or residence near a body of stagnant water; however, cause and effect have not been established.”

Kelly Preston, John’s wife and Jett’s mother, had worked tirelessly to purify her home of all airborne chemicals, such as those found in carpet cleaners.

I imagine over the next few days and weeks, many will argue over the legitimacy of Kawasaki disease. There will be, I suspect, the same who argue that chemical sensitivities, like those that plague people with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) are merely... figments of their imagination. Exaggerations. Lies.

Not only do we not agree with this, but we’ve also based much of what we stand for at AllerAir on the sole purpose of raising awareness about the dangers associated with poor indoor air quality (IAQ), and developing air purifiers that offer alternatives to breathing dangerous airborne chemicals and gases.

For more information on harmful airborne toxins and chemicals, visit www.allerair.com. To speak to one of our Indoor Air Quality Experts, call 1.888.852.8247.

Report: Toxic Air and American Schools

USA Today’s recently released report, Toxic Air and American Schools, has really hit a nerve with school administrators and parents alike.

It’s understandable; nobody wants to be told that the air quality in the school they are running may be a risk to the health of the kids who are attending. And certainly no parent wants to imagine that their child is breathing carcinogens, while learning.

So many schools are lashing back, claiming that no actual air quality tests were made, that the information in the report was merely based on statistics. Meanwhile, many parents are outraged, demanding action and improved air quality for their children.

The way the USA report works is it ranks each school on a percentile scale comparing it to the other schools in the nation. There are two separate rankings, one for exposure to cancer causing air toxins and one for exposure to non-cancer causing air toxins. USA derived these rankings by using an EPA model to identify the path of pollutants emanating from industrial sources near schools.

The report concludes, “The potential problems that emerged were widespread, insidious, and largely unaddressed.”

Yikes.

We’ve never a published a report like the one released by USA Today, and we don’t necessarily agree with everything that’s in the report, but one thing’s for sure, it’s about time air quality becomes a hot topic.

The mere fact that people are talking about air quality is an important step in the right direction.

If nothing else this report has opened many people’s eyes to the possibility that air quality could be affecting their health—- or the health of their children. There’s lots of information available for those seeking it, and even effective solutions for those that choose them.

For more information on indoor air quality, please visit www.allerair.com, or to speak to an AllerAir IAQ Expert about including air purifiers in your home or local school, call 888.852.8247.