Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases emitted from certain solids and liquids.

These are emitted even by typical household products, such as paint/coatings, paint strippers, wood preservatives, aerosol sprays, cleansers and disinfectants, insect repellents, air fresheners, stored fuels.

These are also released by automotive products, hobby supplies and even dry-cleaned clothing.

VOC is emitted from several items we use regularly, so why should we be concerned by the amount of VOC's we are exposed to?

Simply put, research shows that some VOCs can cause chronic and acute health effects at high concentrations, and some are known carcinogens.

Even low to moderate levels of VOCs may produce acute reactions in some individuals.

Some of the immediate symptoms are visual disorders, memory impairment, respiratory tract irritation, headaches, and dizziness.

They can also damage the liver, kidney and central nervous system.

Studies also found that indoor levels of organics are 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels. Certain activities like painting can raise that to 1000 times higher!