Source control

This content was archived on June 24, 2013.

The most effective strategy for reducing indoor air pollution is to eliminate the source of the contamination, and to reduce indoor emissions. Here are some tips for controlling the most common indoor air pollutants:

• Avoid smoking indoors: Tobacco smoke contains high levels of indoor air pollutants;
• Keep your home dry: Control humidity levels and fix anything that causes dampness and allows mould to grow. If you have a flood, take immediate action and remove the water and anything wet. Dry the area out, including all affected furnishings, within 48 hours to prevent mould growth and to reduce future repair costs;
• Maintenance is the key: Make sure that all fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, fireplaces, gas stoves and water heaters are well maintained and working properly. Get a ventilation hood for gas stoves and have all appliances inspected by a qualified person at least once a year;
• Avoid idling: Engine exhaust contains a number of pollutants, so avoid idling cars and lawnmowers in garages, especially those that are attached to homes;
• Use low-emission alternatives: Paints, cleaning products, glues, insulation, carpets, fabrics and other products are all sources of indoor pollution, and there are low-emission alternatives for most or all of them; and
• Do it outside: If you are involved in activities that generate high levels of pollutants, like painting, paint stripping and sanding, do it outside.