Indoor Air Pollution

Complete the following chart:

Pollutant
Sources
Health effects
Is Your Risk Level Acceptable?
Solutions
Sustainable Replacements, when appropriate
Radon
Natural decay of uranium found in almost all soils.
Radon leaks into homes through walls, floors, and water.
Lung cancer unknown
Seal cracks and build vent system.
Not applicable
Mold
Can form anywhere and on anything. Warm and humid conditions are a factor. Lung disease, nasal stuffiness, eye irritation, wheezing, or skin irritation unknown
Control humidity levels and ventilation
Not applicable
Formaldehyde

New furniture, particleboard, plywood, chipboard, and wood paneling Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat; nasal cancer and lung cancer unknown
Reduce humidity levels and increase ventilation
Use exterior grade pressed wood products
Lead

Lead-based paint, contaminated soil, dust, and drinking water Convulsions, coma, death, delays in physical and mental development, lower IQ levels, shortened attention spans, and increased behavioral problems yes

Keep environment dust free, balanced diet rich in calcium and iron Avoid the use of lead based paint
Asbestos

Construction materials, manufactured goods
Lung disease, mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer
unknown
Use protective masks or other equipment when doing construction work Not applicable
Pesticides

Products used to kill household pests
Damage to central nervous system, cancer
yes
Avoid the use of them entirely
Not applicable
Sodium Hypochlorite

Bleach
Pulmonary edema, vomiting or coma
yes
Avoid swallowing and body contact
Chlorine tablets
Phthalates

Plasticizers
Unknown
yes
Not applicable
Not applicable
Synthetic Fragrances
(Petrochemicals, Di-ethyl phthalate, Benzyl butyl phthalate, etc.) Perfumes, colognes, cosmetics
Allergic reactions, contact dermatitis
yes
Avoid the use of them entirely
Natural fragrances