Print | Need Larger Text? | Share

Volatile Organic Compounds

What are Volatile Organic Compounds?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a large and diverse family of chemicals that contain carbon and hydrogen. They can be emitted into indoor air from a variety of sources including cigarette smoke, household products like air fresheners, furnishings, vehicle exhaust and building materials such as paint, varnish and glues.

What Are the Health Risks?

Some VOCs such as benzene and toluene are known to be toxic, but only at concentrations far above those typically found in Canadian homes. There is limited evidence that directly links VOC mixtures found in homes to known health problems. Concerns about VOCs arise from the hypothesis that, when combined, the toxicity of hundreds of VOCs could "add up" to create health hazards, but this remains unproven.

How Do I Prevent or Fix the Problem?

• Open the windows: Ensure sufficient ventilation during major painting or varnishing projects, or when installing wall-to-wall carpets using glues or adhesives.
• Choose low-emission products when possible: Some paints and varnishes that are labelled as "low emission" products emit fewer VOCs than others and are a great choice.
• Prevent people from smoking indoors: Second-hand smoke contains several VOCs so it makes sense to prevent people from smoking in your home.
• Avoid some personal-care products and cleaning products: One easy tip to improve the quality of your indoor air is to avoid the use of plug-ins or aerosol deodorizers (air fresheners).

Where Can I Get More Information?

•  Federal Agenda on the Reduction of Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds from Consumer and Commercial Products - Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA)
•  Environment Canada: Volatile Organic Compounds in Consumer and Commercial Products
•  Environment Canada: Guidelines for Volatile Organic Compounds in Consumer Products (DRAFT)
•  CMHC's How to Reduce Chemical Contaminants in Your Home