A recent study by University of Sheffield researchers found the air quality in kitchens may show levels of pollutants up to three times higher than they were as measured in the outside environment.
The study measured levels of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and solid particles small enough to penetrate into the lungs and contrasted these measurements in apartments in rural areas and urban areas right beside a busy road. However, proximity to outside sources of pollution – i.e. traffic fumes – didn’t turn out to be the main issue that differentiated the results. That issue turned out to be the use of gas as opposed to electric stoves.
The levels of nitrogen dioxide in particular with gas cookers (as opposed to electric stoves) were three times higher than those measures outside.
The study was published in the Journal of Indoor and Built Environment and showed that, in addition to NO2 levels, the average particle concentrations overall in the apartments with gas cookers were higher than the U.K. government set levels for acceptable standards of indoor pollutants.
It’s certainly food for thought, and emphasizes the growing field of study and concern over indoor air quality issues, particularly since there is actually very little data on emission rates from different appliances.
We Can Help
At ESG, we know that knowledge is the best way to protect yourself and your family against the effects of poor indoor air quality which can include eye, nose and throat irritation, dizziness and headaches, visual disorders and more.
- Chronic low level exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to adverse effects on your health. Our equipment can measure CO at levels too low for commercial residential sensors to detect.
- We can also measure VOCs – the compounds that can emit from many household materials like paint and carpets and cleaning products.
- We can also assess your HVAC system, which naturally collect particles and debris in its normal operations. It may be a source of contaminants along with conditioned or heated air.
- We can conduct Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) audits – detailed and taken at regular intervals – to give you advice on the adequacy of air flow and amount of fresh air that circulates in your home.
If you’re experiencing any of these health symptoms that you can’t explain by any other means, let us give you peace of mind – call the Environmental Services Group for a quote.
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ESG is now an official supplier of HGTV’s Income Properties!
Environmental Services Group is a cutting edge environmental consulting firm based in Toronto and servicing both the Greater Toronto Area and Ontario. We provide state-of-the-art, industry-leading expertise in remedying environmental hazards such as mold, lead, asbestos and much more. Call 416-575-6111 or visit our website today for a pressure-free initial consultation. You’ll be glad you did!