Home environmental hazards are substances and conditions that can negatively impact health and safety. They include air contaminates such as carbon monoxide, radon, asbestos, mold, and lead paint. See the EPA Radon Information Page for more information.
Air and Surface Pollutant Hazards:
• Carbon Monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion of fuels, and is a posing hazard.
• Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground, increasing the risk of lung cancer.
• Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that, when disturbed, can release fibers into the air, potentially causing respiratory illnesses.
• Lead can be found in paint manufactured before 1978, and plumbing pipes, and is a posing hazard (especially for children).
• Mold growth in homes can lead to various health problems.
• Pesticides are chemicals used to control insects and pests, and exposure can be a health risk.
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals emitted by various household products, including paints, cleaners, and furniture. These compounds can cause poor air quality.
• Secondhand Smoke is a major air pollutant that can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
Water Pollutant Hazards:
• Lead pipes and solder can contaminate drinking water, posing health risks.
• Water can also be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants.
• Mold is a fungus that can grow in damp environments, releasing spores into the air that can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems.
• Pests like insects and rodents can contaminate homes and spread diseases.
• Water Intrusion from leaks, water damage, and foundation drainage problems can cause structural damage and create hazardous conditions.
Other Hazards:
• Fires and burns can occur from improperly maintained appliances, candles, and smoking materials can increase the risk of fires and burns.
• Falls can occur on unsafe stairs, cluttered hallways, and slippery floors.
• Sharp Objects like needles, broken glass, and knives can cause injuries.
• Chemical Spills from cleaning products, pesticides, or other chemicals can pose hazards.
• Noise Pollution from excessive noise levels can cause hearing damage and stress.
• Inadequate Lighting can increase the risk of falls and other accidents.
Risk Reduction:
• Regular Maintenance of appliances, plumbing, and heating systems regularly to prevent hazards.
• Proper Ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, to prevent mold growth and reduce indoor air pollutants.
• Clean and Organize the home to reduce the risk of falls, pests, and fires.
• Safe Storage of chemicals and other hazardous materials in a safe place, away from children and pets.
• Lead Testing for homes built before 1978, to test for lead paint and pipes.
• Asbestos Removal should be done if asbestos is present in your home.
• Radon Testing should be done and a mitigation system installed, if radon levels are high.
• Water Testing should be done for drinking water to determine the presence of contaminants, such as lead.
By understanding and mitigating these common home environmental hazards, individuals can create safer and healthier living environments for themselves and their families. See the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Safe Water Page for more information.