Volatile Organic Compounds Testing

 


What is V.O.C?

V.O.C. stands for Volatile Organic Compounds which are chemicals that emanate as gases from solids and/or liquids. These chemicals are released into air that is at room temperature. They are much higher indoors than outdoors.

These chemicals can be found in building materials used in the home, cooking sources, gasoline and fuel, some air fresheners, paints, laser printers, carpeting, cleaning products and many other sources. These chemicals can build up in homes during the winter and summer months when the homes are closed due to air conditioning and heating.

Why Should My House Be Tested For V.O.C.?

Volatile Organic Compounds higher than 500 ng/L pose a health hazard to you and your family. These high compounds can cause blurry vision, nausea, dizziness, coughing, rashes, respiratory irritation, mental confusion, headaches, lethargy and depression.

High levels can also exacerbate existing conditions such as asthma. Very high levels can cause loss of consciousness, kidney and liver damage and some can cause cancer.

Do not assume you are safe if you have a newer home. Levels tend to be higher in houses built after 1970 because of fresh air infiltration used to conserve heat and give improved insulation in the home. The tighter insulation does not allow the compounds to escape. These materials will stay in the house until they are removed.

How is V.O.C. Testing Performed?

Volatile Organic Compound testing in the home can be done in two ways.

One way to test is by having a professional use a handheld meter. A parts per million meter is used in the home setting. Another method is to have the professional collect an air sample using a small sampling pump which will draw the air through a tube. The sampling time is approximately 2 ½ to 3 hours. V.O.C. TestingThen it will be sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Store Bought Air Quality Test Kits

Purchasing store-bought quality test kits will not give you the high quality results you would receive by hiring a professional to test your home. The professional will know exactly what and where to test in your home for these harmful chemicals.

You do not want to jeopardize your family’s health just to save money. Trust the professionals who know exactly what to look for and how to treat it.

Do you need V.O.C. Testing performed in your LA home? Then Call Common Sense Inspection's today at (323) 372-2666, and the get the correct testing from the right experts.

LA Mold VOC Inspection

About the author

Hello, Samuel Dixon with Common Sense Inspections Mold Inspection in Los Angeles has been awarded the Council­ certified Indoor Environmental Consultant (CIEC) designation by the American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC). This prestigious, board ­awarded certification recognizes Dixon’s knowledge and field experience in indoor environmental investigation and consulting. To earn the CIEC designation, Samuel passed a rigorous examination based on respected industry texts. He then submitted documented, verifiable field experience to a board of peers, earning a unanimous vote of approval. To maintain the CIEC designation, Samuel will remain active in the field and complete 40 hours of professional development activities within the next two years. Samuel is now listed in the ACAC certificant database at www.acac.org, along with more than 2,800 ACAC certificants around the world. The database can be searched by name, company or zip code and represents a continuously updated roster of experienced indoor environmental professionals. The CIEC designation is accredited by the Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB) and the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), both nationally recognized third­ party accreditation bodies. For more information, visit www.acac.org.