What are indoor air contaminants?
Indoor air contaminants come primarily from inside the building, although some originate outdoors. These contaminants may be generated by a specific, limited source or several sources over a wide area, and may be generated periodically or continuously. Here are examples of common indoor air contaminants and their main sources: • Carbon dioxide (CO2), tobacco smoke, perfume, body odors from building occupant; • Dust, fiberglass, asbestos, gases, including formaldehyde from building materials; • Toxic vapors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from workplace cleansers, solvents, pesticides, disinfectants, glues; • Gases, vapors, odors from off-gas emissions from furniture, carpets, and paints; • Dust mites — from carpets, fabric, and foam chair cushions; • Microbial contaminants, fungi, moulds, bacteria from damp areas, stagnant water and condensate pans; and • Ozone from photocopiers, electric motors, electrostatic air cleaners.
