Investigating personal exposure to VOC using a modified portable sensor

Abstract

Air toxics are ubiquitous in outdoor and indoor air, and therefore of public health concern. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA), immediate symptoms of exposure to polluted air can include throat irritation, dizziness and headaches. Long-term health risks may include respiratory disease, heart disease and even cancer. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are generated in transportation, the chemical industry, during any type of combustion including cigarette smoking, and during indoor product use such as glues, solvents, paints, material furnishings, printer and cleaning products. To date, personal exposure (PE) to VOCs along with the associated health risks have not been well documented in the Maltese Islands. Essentially, exposure concentration of VOCs and the lifestyle data are an indispensable tool for the medical community to assess health conditions outlined above and to understand or trace possible causes of these conditions.