These days, it's common knowledge that smoking endangers not only the smokers themselves, but also the people around them through secondhand smoke. It's not as well known, however, that thirdhand smoke can also present significant health risks to the people exposed to it. Thirdhand smoke is a relatively new concept that's still being studied, so if you're not sure what it is, don't worry—the team at Common Sense Inspections Inc. is here to explain!

What is thirdhand smoke?

Thirdhand smoke consists of residual chemicals, like nicotine, that are left on indoor surfaces as a result of tobacco smoke. By simply coming into physical contact with these surfaces, you or your family could be exposed to these harmful chemicals and suffer from their effects.

Thirdhand smoke can stick to many different types of surfaces, such as:

  • Clothing
  • Furniture
  • Drapes
  • Walls
  • Bedding
  • Carpet
  • Dust
  • Vehicles

One of the most concerning aspects of thirdhand smoke is that the chemicals can remain on these surfaces long after the smoking has occurred. Thirdhand smoke can't be removed simply by airing out a room, using a fan, or trying to contain the smoking to a particular area. The residue will continue to build up over time unless the surfaces are cleaned thoroughly and regularly.

Why is thirdhand smoke dangerous?

Thirdhand smoke endangers nonsmokers in the same ways that secondhand smoke does. Adults are put at greater risk of lung cancer, stroke, and heart disease. Children are susceptible to risks such as respiratory complications, asthma, or SIDS. Infants and young children, in particular, are endangered by thirdhand smoke due to their tendency to put contaminated surfaces or objects in their mouths.

"Off-gassing" is another potential concern when it comes to thirdhand smoke. This can occur when the chemical residue left on surfaces interacts with other common indoor pollutants to form even more harmful compounds that could have long-term health effects.

Overall, thirdhand smoke presents adults and children with the potential for tobacco-related health problems.

How can Common Sense Inspections Inc. help detect thirdhand smoke?

When we test for thirdhand smoke, we take samples from the surfaces of a home or commercial property and then test for the main chemicals that signal the presence of tobacco smoke. With just one sample, we can cover up to 2,000 square feet of space. This test is often required by law for commercial spaces, but it's also highly recommended for homes in order to ensure the health and safety of the individuals living there. Since you may not know who lived in the space before you, or whether it was adequately sanitized, it's a smart move to get it tested!

Common Sense Inspections Inc. is available to test for thirdhand smoke throughout the Los Angeles area. Please give us a call if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment. We're happy to help!

The Moldy Blog

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.