General information

1. Indoor air quality

   The air in our contemporary homes contains volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehydes, due to chemicals in building materials and advances in building insulation.

   Sources of pollutants include plywood, paints, wood treatment products, resins, glass wool, glues, solvents, and some cleaning and DIY products.

2. Health Effects

   VOCs and formaldehydes in ambient air irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes and upper respiratory tract and skin. This results in eye burns, tingling in the nose and throat, rhinitis and blocked nose.

   These symptoms may improve after leaving the room or building. In the event of long-term exposure, health conditions such as headaches, chronic fatigue, respiratory allergies (asthma), as well as feelings of general discomfort, may also occur.

   Suspicion of excessive formaldehyde emission inside the premises can be confirmed by air measurements. The FOPH (Federal Office for Public Health) recommends that the concentration of 0.1mg/m³ of air inside dwellings should not be exceeded.