There are various sources of toxins and unsafe materials that are used in building materials, appliances, furnishings, paints, and glues. While doing construction it is extremely important to know the safety measures to ensure that you and others are not put in dangers path.
Building:
While building your house or even inspecting one you already live in or wish to buy please be conscious of the following Toxins.
Asbestos: Asbestos is a collection of naturally occurring minerals that separate into strong, very thin fibers. The insulation in houses built between the 1930’s and the 1950’s as we as some roofing and siding shingles contained asbestos and or used asbestos cement. Asbestos was also used in textured paint, patching compounds, wall and floors around wood burnings, vinyl floor tiles, hot water and steam pipes. Depending on the condition of the material containing asbestos, the asbestos may or may not be hazardous to your health. When fibers are released, health risk such as lung cancer can be an effect. If attempting to remove asbestos please contact a professional.[1]
Moisture/Mold: Excess amounts of moisture in your home can lead to mold, mildew and other biological growths. Moisture and mold can pose health hazards such as allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and more serious health issues. Severe moisture problems can eventually prompt structural damage, rot and premature paint failure. There are various techniques that can be used to control moisture while, building, renovating, and maintaining your home.[2]
Radon: It is very important to test your home for Radon. Radon is a naturally occurring gas that cannot be seen and does not have a smelled. Radon is one of the leading causes of lung cancer in the U.S. Radon test are easily accessible and affordable. Radon migration system can also be installed in your to direct Radon out of your home.[3]
Paint, Furnishing, glues and Appliances:
Lead: Lead is a well-known toxin that was commonly used in paint until the late 1970’s. While the use of lead in paint has been reduced, it is important to acknowledge that it is not absent in paint products. If you have a home build prior to the 80’s, the paint in your home could be lead based. If the lead paint is in good condition it’s usually not hazardous. Paint chips and lead based dust can be eaten or inhaled by children and pets. If you are concerned about your house containing lead based paint, please contact a professional.[4]
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s): VOC’s are present in multifarious products such as: paints and lacquers, paint strippers, adhesive, solvents, upholstery and carpet treatments, and craft materials. [5]
Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is a common VOC used in the manufacturing of building materials and most particularly sub-flooring, shelves, in furniture and cabinets. It is also found in plywood paneling (such as wall decorations, furniture and cabinets) and medium density fiberboards. Other VOC’s such as benzene, xylene, and toluene are often used. [6]
Chromatid Copper Arsenic (CCA): Used by manufactures to pressure treat wood in the 1970’s in order to make the wood resistant to decay and rotting. Commonly used for porches, decks, and children’s play structures. CCA is known as a human carcinogen, and can be severely toxic.[7]
Unsafe appliances and products: Unsafe products and appliances are always appearing. To see what appliances and products in your home are unsafe, please looks at check out, http://www.saferproducts.gov/Search/Result.aspx?dm=0&q=Appliances&srt=0
High Voltage Equipment: High voltage equipment often refers to and voltage exceeding 1000 V rms. To gain information about using high voltage equipment please seek guidance from, http://www.nist.gov/el/isd/mmc/upload/high_voltage_rules_revised.pdf to insure your safety and the safety of those around you.
[1] http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/protectingyourhealth.htm
[2] http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/protectingyourhealth.htm
[3] http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/protectingyourhealth.htm
[4] http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/protectingyourhealth.htm
[5] http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/protectingyourhealth.htm
[6] http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/protectingyourhealth.htm
[7] http://www.epa.gov/greenhomes/protectingyourhealth.htm