Volatile organic compounds and building bake-out.

VOCs are generally present in indoor air at concentrations greater than, and not infrequently much greater than, those of outdoor air. These VOCs cover a broad spectrum of compounds, ranging from about 20 to several hundred in any given sample of indoor air. However, the concentrations observed in nonindustrial indoor air samples are generally much lower than occupational health standards. Still, the sources of VOCs indoors are varied and ubiquitous, and the health effects of exposure to VOC are varied and range from irritant effects associated with SBS, to carcinogenic and reproductive effects. A recent study of the health effects of exposure to low concentrations of VOCs has produced surprising results and insight into some of the more subtle health effects. However, additional study is needed to confirm these effects. Many general techniques for mitigating exposures to VOCs are available; the difficulty lies in obtaining the specific information necessary to apply these techniques effectively to a given problem. In some cases this information relates to diagnostics, either to the cause of particular symptoms in individuals or about the particular source or sources of VOCs. In other cases, this information is related to the application and efficacy of a particular mitigation technique for a particular problem. Bake-out is a promising technique for reducing exposures to VOCs in new office buildings. However, further effort in delineating its utility is necessary before it can be recommended.