The most vulnerable to these hazards are babies and children because of their developing systems. Exposure includes ingestion, inhalation, and absorption. So what do we need to know as consumers? Be informed. Research. Knowledge is the key. Be aware of VOC's. Know what too look for on those plastic containers. Take steps to reduce the risk of exposure.

Since paints and plastics are labeled and the most widely used we must understand how to read the labels. Most paints contain Volatile Organic Compounds, or VOC's, that off-gas, that is they release harmful vapors into the air. A VOC number or rating expresses the level of VOC's present.

All paint labels must list the claimed level of VOCs in grams per liter (g/l). Federal VOC limits are 250 g/l for flat paints and 380 g/l for others. In some states and regions, VOC levels must be lower. For example, in California, nonflat finishes must be 150 g/l and flat finishes, 100 g/l.

The good news is there are low VOC paints available. Interior paint is given a Green Seal if it has a VOC content less than 50 g/l (for flat sheen) or 150 g/l (non-flat sheen). The bad news is not only are VOC's in paint, but in building materials as well. Have you ever heard of 'Sick Building Syndrome', it is caused largely by high VOC concentration combined with inadequate ventilation.

VOC's can continue to off-gas years after construction or after painting. Two things can be done to greatly decrease the amount of VOC's present. Ventilation and a good charcoal air purifier.

And what about plastic? That famous 'new car smell' is actually the dangerous off-gassing of plastics. The two main concerns are Bisphenol-A and Phthalates.

Here is some information to help you understand what those symbols and numbers mean on plastics.

THE NUMBER TELLS YOU THE CHEMICAL MAKE UP OF THE PLASTIC..... 1) Polyethylene terephalate (PET)

2) High density polyethylene (HDPE)

3) Unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) or Plasticised polyvinyl chloride (PPVC)

4) Low density polyethylene LDPE

5) Polypropylene (PP)

6) Polystyrene (PS) or Expandable polystyrene (EPS)

7) Other, including nylon and acrylic

Avoid groups 3 and 7. This is where Bisphenol-A, or BPA, and Phthalates are found.

BPA is in polycarbonate plastics — the hard, clear plastics often used for food and beverage containers, in baby bottles, and even as a lining for canned foods has been linked to birth defects.

Phthalates, plasticizers that impart flexibility and durability to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products are found in toys, food packaging, hoses, raincoats, shower curtains, vinyl flooring, wall coverings, lubricants, adhesives, detergents, nail polish, hair spray and shampoo. Health Effects related to Phthalates: Organ system toxicity (non-reproductive), Endocrine system, Reproduction and fertility, Birth or developmental effects, Persistent and bioaccumulative, Brain and nervous system, Immune system, including sensitization and allergies.

Since eliminating these products from the home is usually not an option, the best way to reduce off-gassing in your home is too move air, some fans and opening windows for a couple of hours a day to allow for better ventilation. Purchase a air purifier for your home. Avoid using the dishwasher to clean sippy cups, bottles, storage containers, any plastics, as high temperatures cause these toxins to leach into the future product contained within. Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers.

None of these products are going away any time soon. It can be overwhelming to discover all of the hidden dangerous around the home. Use products as they are intended(referring to non-heating of plastic). Read the labels. Be informed. You and your loved ones health depends on it. For more information on Indoor Air Pollution please read EPA-Indoor Air Quality

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