Pollution And A Safe Environment

When many people think of the environment, they draw to mind an image of the air, water, and land that surround us outside. However, there is growing attention to identifying and reducing the indoor pollution (whether it’s in the air or elsewhere) of offices and other indoor worksites. The conditions and illnesses collectively referred to as “sick building syndrome” can be caused by impure or hazardous indoor environments. It is often characterized by a lessening of symptoms when the affected individual is not in the building. There are in actuality numerous forms of indoor pollution that can be harmful or sometimes even fatal.

This article lists examples of illnesses and health conditions associated with indoor pollution, potential sources of contamination, and ways to limit employees’ exposure to such contaminants. Call Ascent Law for the Environment Laws and Workplace Safety to learn how we can help you.

The EPA has performed studies that indicate that indoor levels of many pollutants may be two to five times higher than outside levels. The studies have even revealed some instances where indoor levels were more than 100 times higher than outdoor levels. These results are particularly alarming when compared to the fact that the EPA studies also revealed that most Americans spend as much as 90 percent of their time indoors!

Examples Of Building-Related Illnesses & Symptoms
• Legionnaire’s disease
• Asthma
• Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
• Humidifier fever
• Irritated nose, eyes, and throat
• Sneezing
• Blocked sinuses
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Irritability
• Forgetfulness
Potential Sources
• Building maintenance activities
• Pest control
• Housekeeping and cleaning activities
• Renovation and remodeling activities
• New furnishings
• Finishes on furniture or other products
• Occupant/inhabitant activities such as smoking
• Asbestos from insulation
• Formaldehyde from pressed wood products
• Organics and chemicals in carpet fibers and backing
• Restroom air fresheners
• Paints
• Adhesives
• Water-damaged walls, carpets, and furnishings
• Copying machines
• Facsimile machines
• Photography supplies
• Print supplies

Types Of Contaminants

• Biological contaminants: Bacteria, viruses, fungi, molds, dust mites, animal dander, pollen, condensation, and humidity.
• Chemical pollutants: Tobacco smoke, emissions from office equipment, furniture, cleaning and consumer hygiene products, accidental release or spill of chemicals and gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide.
• Particles: Solid or liquid substances light enough to be transferred by air such as dust, dirt, sawdust, drywall chalk, and ink particles from copying machines.

Tips For Preventing Indoor Air Pollution

• Do not close or block air vents, registers, or grilles with furniture, boxes, or other objects.
• Do not smoke in prohibited or enclosed areas (second-hand smoke is a leading trigger of asthma and other respiratory conditions).
• Water and maintain house and office plants.
• Dispose of garbage frequently and properly.
• Store food and other perishables properly.
• Dust and vacuum regularly.
• Be careful with the use of aerosol paint, sprays, and other aerosol products.

• Be careful with the use of home and office-use pesticides such as “bug bombs” and roach sprays. Consider using bait traps for pests, as these will likely not involve the release of as many chemical particles.
• Control humidity and moisture levels indoors.
• Clean air vents and air-conditioning and dehumidifier drip pans or filters regularly.
• Before purchasing new furniture, appliances or other similar items for home or office use ask the seller, supplier, manufacturer, or designer of the product to provide information on any chemical emissions which the product may have.
• Ask if new items such as carpeting or furniture can be aired out in a clean, dry, environment before they are installed or brought into your home and office.

Specific Steps for Reducing Indoor Air Pollution

• Manage the source of indoor pollutants by refraining from use entirely, or controlled timing of the use.
• Isolate the pollutant from inhabitants or occupants of the area.
• Dilute indoor pollutants when used.

• Remove them from the area through the use of ventilation.
• Filtrate in order to clean the air of pollutants that may be left behind after dilution and ventilation.

Environment Lawyer

When you need legal help with environment law in Utah, please call Ascent Law LLC for your free consultation (801) 676-5506. We want to help you.

Michael Anderson

People who want a lot of Bull go to a Butcher. People who want results navigating a complex legal field go to a Lawyer that they can trust. That’s where I come in. I am Michael Anderson, an Attorney in the Salt Lake area focusing on the needs of the Average Joe wanting a better life for him and his family. I’m the Lawyer you can trust. I grew up in Utah and love it here. I am a Father to three, a Husband to one, and an Entrepreneur. I understand the feelings of joy each of those roles bring, and I understand the feeling of disappointment, fear, and regret when things go wrong. I attended the University of Utah where I received a B.A. degree in 2010 and a J.D. in 2014. I have focused my practice in Wills, Trusts, Real Estate, and Business Law. I love the thrill of helping clients secure their future, leaving a real legacy to their children. Unfortunately when problems arise with families. I also practice Family Law, with a focus on keeping relationships between the soon to be Ex’s civil for the benefit of their children and allowing both to walk away quickly with their heads held high. Before you worry too much about losing everything that you have worked for, before you permit yourself to be bullied by your soon to be ex, before you shed one more tear in silence, call me. I’m the Lawyer you can trust.

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