Frequently Asked Questions

About Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

According to the definition provided by Environment Canada, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are organic compounds containing one or more carbon atoms that have high vapour pressures and therefore evaporate readily to the atmosphere. VOCs do not include photo chemically non-reactive compounds such as methane, ethane and the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs).

The term "organic compounds" covers all chemicals containing carbon and hydrogen. Volatile organic compounds are those organic compounds that have boiling points roughly in the range of 50-250oC. There are probably several thousand chemicals, synthetic and natural, that can be called VOCs. Of these, over 900 have been identified in indoor air, with over 250 recorded at concentrations higher than 1 ppb.

VOC's are a result of chemical off gassing or chemical gases in the indoor breathable air. VOC's are the most prevalent of indoor air pollutants. Virtually any material in a building has some potential for containing organic compounds that can evaporate or sublimate from its surfaces and get into the air. Other materials in the indoor environment can actually absorb VOC's and then slowly release them back into the indoor air.

Reactions to elevated levels of VOC's can vary depending on what chemical is being released and therefore, inhaled, absorbed or ingested. The concentration of the chemical, exposure time, as well as personal factors such as body size, age and overall health can be key factors in determining possible risks associated with the exposure. Typical Outdoor air is usually between 0 – 500ppb TVOC with typical indoor air being between 100 – 900ppb TVOC.