Toxic Chemicals Lead to Indoor Air Pollution

There have been countless public awareness campaigns against the silent killer radon – the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., and many of us are also aware of the danger of toxic chemicals in pesticides and paint, but it appears that a new threat to air is emerging into the national consciousness.  Toxic gases from a variety of man-made sources, including petroleum spills, sewage treatment plants, dry-cleaning plants and others is becoming a serious problem for residents in places like Brooklyn, NY.  

Toxic chemicals in the air are responsible for a variety of health concerns for many, but especially for the elderly and the very young.  They include everything from dizziness in the short term to organ failure in the long term.

Authorities are urging homeowners to cooperate with attempts to test homes for toxic pollution.  Homeowners in neighborhoods affected by these toxic chemicals are reluctant to cooperate with authorities, however, because they are worried about de-valuing their property.  New York did pass a law this month, though, that requires landlords to inform tenants about the results of any indoor air quality tests that exceed safety guidelines.

Getting rid of this harmful indoor air pollution is similar to the process of radon remediation.  It involves sealing cracks and installing a ventilation system to draw contaminated air away from the home before it enters.  It generally costs $5000-$10000 and is paid for by the state, which then tries to recoup expenses from those responsible for the pollution.

Some areas are hoping that by proving the level of contamination is so high, they will be able to make a better case for Superfund designation, which draws federal cleanup money.