What is indoor pollution?
We are all aware of the dangers people with respiratory conditions (such as asthma) face when it comes to outdoor pollution in cities and on busy roads.
However, there is also a hidden danger inside our offices and work environments. Common causes of indoor pollution include gas stoves and products such as deodorant, nail varnish and cleaning products.
Harsh chemicals given off by many of these products can linger in the air and cause health issues when breathed in as well as asthma attacks – particularly as it is reported that we spend an average of 90% of our time indoors, with much of our time spent indoors whilst at work.
How can indoor pollution from cleaning chemicals affect me?
Cleaning products can irritate the throat and eyes, cause headaches or even increase the risk of cancer. Many day to day products which we use in our offices (such as air fresheners, bleach and aerosols) can contain a mix of harmful substances, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
VOCs are a common addition to many of these products. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, they can be harmful to your health causing anything from mild irritation to the nose, throat, and eyes, to breathing difficulties, nausea and they can even damage the central nervous system and other organs. Some have even been linked to cancer, however, it important to note that not all VOCs have these effects, though many can cause several of them.
How to protect against indoor pollution?
Ventilation can help to ensure that these toxic chemicals are being moved out of our living and workspaces. Allowing any newly cleaned areas to fully air out with windows open can prevent a build-up of pollutants in your home.
Having houseplants in the workplace can also help to cleanse the air and naturally detoxify any chemicals. Plants which are recommended for improving indoor air quality include: Aloe Vera, Peace Lily, Rubber plant and snake plants.
Some companies have even installed a ‘living wall’ to detoxify the air. A small amount of time dedicated to looking after plants in your workplace could help protect your workforce from a multitude of symptoms caused by indoor pollution.
Finding non-toxic and chemical-free alternatives to strong chemical cleaners is also an option. At Purozo, we supply cleaning products which uses Stabilised Aqueous Ozone (SAO™), a highly powerful cleaning solution that is free from hazardous chemicals yet proven to be more effective than bleach. It has been proven 100% harmless and safe by governing bodies around the world, whilst still being deadly to germs.
How does SAO™ work?
Stabilised Aqueous Ozone works when converted into O₃. This naturally unstable compound is always trying to revert to its natural state and so the molecules latch onto surrounding dirt and
bacteria. It will then revert to normal water. It is proven to kill up to 99.999% of harmful contaminants whilst still being safe for people, workplaces, and our planet.
To find out more about how our SAO™ technology, click here: https://bit.ly/2z1W25K
Protecting your health
Ultimately, your health and the health of your family and co-workers is always the most important thing to consider, especially now. That is why it is exceptionally important to consider the pollutants you bring into the workplace and seek chemical-free alternatives where possible.