Week 5 Textbook Readings: Indoor Air Pollution

Question 1

Carbon monoxide

Answer 1

Caused by malfunctioning exhaust systems on household furnace heating systems (most commonly natural gas heaters)

CO binds with hemoglobin, interferes with oxygen transport

Question 2

Asbestos

Answer 2

Long, thin, fibrous silicate mineral with insulating properties

Used as insulator on steam and hot water pipes + in shingles for building sidings

Causes respiratory diseases like asbestosis and lung cancer when inhaled

Question 3

Radon

Answer 3

Humans can be exposed if radon seeps into home through cracks in the foundation or from underlying rock, soil, or groundwater

Radon-induced lung cancer

Question 4

VOCs in Home Products

Answer 4

Toxic example: formaldehyde, used in manufacturing building products such as particle board and carpeting glue

In confined space, causes burning eyes and difficulty breathing; suspected of being human carcinogen

Other products containing VOCs include detergents, dry-cleaning fluids, deodorizers, and solvents

Question 5

Sick building syndrome

Answer 5

A buildup of toxic pollutants in an airtight space, seen in newer buildings (like office buildings)

Causes:
1. inadequate ventilation
2. chemical contamination from indoor sources such as glues, copy machines
3. chemical contamination from outside sources such as vehicle exhaust
4. biological contamination such as molds or pollen