Your
home should be the place of greatest safety and comfort
for you and your family. Given the large amount of time
we spend in our home environments, it is important that
they are healthy.
What are common sources of environmental problems in my
home?
The number one environmental problem
with homes is mould. Mould is nature’s way of recycling
nutrients and is an important part of the environmental
cycle. However, high concentrations of mould in the
indoor environment can be a serious health threat. Homes
that have been water damaged due to rains, leaks, or
floods are particularly at risk for mould contamination.
Other sources of environmental
problems include:
• Pesticides
• Particulate matter
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
• Gases such as carbon dioxide and
carbon monoxide
• Electromagnetic radiation
• Inorganic contaminants such as
lead or asbestos
How do I know
if my home has a problem?
Some of the signs of a home with an
indoor air quality problem can be identified by
observation or smell. A dank, musty odour is an
indication of a potential mould problem. Visual
indications such as discoloration or biological growth
are observed if there is mould contamination. A
professional IAQ investigation may be required to
determine sources of indoor air quality contamination.
IAQ specialists often test for airborne biological
contaminants, as well as organic and inorganic
contaminants.
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