Sources of Indoor Air Pollutants
How do air pollutants enter a home?
There are many possible sources of air pollutants in homes. Following are some common sources/causes:
- renovation work
- burning of fuels in gas stoves and ovens
- building and furnishing materials
- new pressed-wood furniture
- using consumer products containing volatile organic compounds, such as cosmetics, fragrance products, cleaning agents and pesticides
- dry-cleaned clothing
- smoking
- damp environment causing mould growth
- poor housekeeping or inadequate cleaning
- poor ventilation causing accumulation of biological contaminants and other air pollutants

How do air pollutants enter offices / public places?
There are many possible sources of air pollutants in offices / public places. Following are some common types of pollutants:
Chemical pollutants
- ozone from photocopiers
- emissions from office equipment, furniture, wall and floor coverings
- consumer products containing volatile organic compounds, such as cleaning agents and pesticides
Airborne particles
- particles of dust, dirt, or other substances drawn into the building from outside
- activities in buildings, like sanding wood, printing, copying, operating equipment, and smoking
Biological contaminants
- excessive level of bacteria, viruses, and mould growth
- inadequate maintenance and housekeeping
- water problems, including water spills, leakages and condensation, not promptly and properly fixed
- inadequate humidity control
- brought into the building by occupants, infiltration, or through the fresh air intake
