Indoor Air Quality
There is a growing population of people affected negatively by toxic indoor air conditions caused by chemicals, fragrances, and gases – and some who can experience serious health problems as a result. This condition is known as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). People with MCS experience a range of serious physical reactions ‐ some even life‐threatening ‐ to a variety of air pollutants such as perfumes, scented personal care products (deodorants, scented lotions, etc.), chemicals used in cleaning products, deodorizers, pesticides, gas‐out from wall and floor coverings, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) in other building materials.
There are also a growing number of persons with severe allergic reactions to natural contaminants like peanut dust in the air, and are at risk of severe allergic (anaphylactic) reactions. Improving Indoor Air Quality in public areas is of concern to every employer, building owner, and facility manager. This condition may be on the rise because reactions are reported and better monitored or because combinations of man‐made materials may interact indoors in ways not predicted by the manufacturer.
The Governor’s Council on Disability supports accommodating all persons with disabilities including those with MCS and airborne allergies. The Council asks cooperation from all public access entities to adopt policies and procedures to provide safe indoor air quality for all employees and the public. Staff and visitors who have MCS and/or airborne allergies are encouraged to inform staff and/or managers of their sensitivities to determine various accommodations and develop options in the event that exposure to chemicals and/or airborne allergens is otherwise unavoidable.
Related Links:
- Governor´s Council on Disability Fragrance Free Policy
- Food Allergy Awareness Coaching & Training
- Steps for Implementing a Scent-Free Policy in the Workplace
- Access Board Policy to Promote Fragrance-Free Environments
- Building for Environmental and Economic Sustainability
- A Peanuty Dilemma
Phi Delta Kappan, Vol. 91, No. 7 (April 2010): pp. 59-63.
By Dianne L. Hoff and Sidney N. Mitchell
- Help Yourself to a Healthy Home