About Organics Testing

United States Environmental Protection Agency information on Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

Volatile organic compounds are carbon-containing chemicals that have a high vapor pressure. They are widely used chemicals and some of the most common pollutants of air, water, and soil. Industrials products containing VOCs include solvents, paints, pharmaceuticals, refrigerants, fuels, hydraulic fluids, and dry cleaning agents. Household products containing VOCs include cleaners, disinfectants, cosmetics, degreasers, glues, furnishings, and office equipment such as copiers and printers. Fuels such as gasoline and diesel contain many VOCs. These products can all release VOCs into the surrounding environment over time.

Health effects from exposure to VOCs include eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, loss of coordination, and nausea. Long term exposure to VOCs can lead to damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Some VOCs (such as benzene) are known to cause cancer.

Reference: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/what-are-volatile-organic-compounds-vocs