The greatest health hazard for homes is indoor air pollution. The U.S. EPA lists many sources of indoor air pollution and how to prevent it http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/insidest.html#ref3. Granite counters and home foundations may emit radioactive radon gas. Formaldehyde is often present in new rugs and kitchen cabinets. Carbon monoxide from faulty chimneys, furnaces, space heaters, and water heaters is also a risk, as are pesticides and tobacco smoke. Paints, cleaning products, and toxic building materials may also release harmful chemicals.
There are three basic strategies to keep interior air healthy. The first is to monitor air quality; for example use a carbon monoxide meter, and be alert to unusual smells. The second is to prevent pollution by removing the source of the pollution: measures such as use of non-toxic greem home products, natural pest control, non-toxic “green” building materials or buying formaldehyde-free rugs. The third is to provide adequate ventilation to exhaust the air pollutants.
View the additional air quality categories on the left side tool bar or click the below links:
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