When creating Low Tox spaces, there are a vast amount of factors to consider, from design stage through to construction and occupancy. This includes selecting finishes that are not off gassing, ensuring the structure is air tight and choice of materials.
Let’s start with Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and the impact these have on indoor air quality. VOCs are found in paint, adhesives, flooring finishes and other materials and in the installation phase of projects. Common VOCs include toluene and formaldehyde found in MDF, which contains carbon and are emitted as gases into the atmosphere. VOCs can give off these nasty chemicals from a material or finish over time, building up in the indoor environment and altering the indoor air quality. The majority of Australians spend more than 90% of their time indoors, raising a concern between the correlation and impact of indoor air quality on our wellbeing. Outstandingly, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, the levels of indoor air pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than outdoor levels.
This topic certainly deserves more attention and awareness. We are committed to raising the awareness around Low Tox spaces and encouraging the selection of products and finishes with low-VOCs or no-VOCs, also looking at the manufacture of products and the installation process.
In combination with the design team, Rotric Constructions can deliver your project with this approach in mind, as well as provide tips for during occupancy. Over the long run, this will save you not only financially but help with the wellbeing of yourselves, the people using these shared spaces and the environment.