Biological Pollutants Found Indoors

Biological pollutants can negatively impact the indoor environmental quality (IEQ) of a home, school, business or any type of building. Some of the more common biological contaminants listed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include bacteria, mold, viruses, animal dander and cat saliva, house dust, dust mites, cockroaches and pollen.
The agency goes on to share:
There are many sources of these pollutants. Pollens originate from plants; viruses are transmitted by people and animals; bacteria are carried by people, animals, and soil and plant debris; and household pets are sources of saliva and animal dander. The protein in urine from rats and mice is a potent allergen. When it dries, it can become airborne. Contaminated central air handling systems can become breeding grounds for mold, mildew and other sources of biological contaminants and can then distribute these contaminants through the home.
Possible health effects from exposure to some biological contaminants listed by EPA include:
• Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
• Allergic rhinitis
• Some types of asthma
The agency reports that symptoms of health problems caused by biological pollutants may include:
• Sneezing
• Watery eyes
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Lethargy
• Fever
• Digestive problems
In addition to COVID, EPA also shares the fact that infectious illnesses, such as influenza, measles and chicken pox are transmitted through the air. Legionella bacteria, sometimes found in building water system can cause Legionnaires’ disease and Pontiac fever if contaminated water droplets or mists are inhaled, and some types of mold can also cause infections, especially for those with a weakened immune system. Various types of mold can even produce toxins, known as mycotoxins.
These are just a few of the many things to know about some of the common biological contaminants found indoors. To learn more about this or other indoor air quality, industrial hygiene, environmental, health or safety issues, please visit the websites shown below.
Clark Seif Clark www.csceng.com
EMSL Analytical, Inc. www.emsl.com
LA Testing www.latesting.com
Zimmetry Environmental www.zimmetry.com
CTSI www.ctsiweb.com
Healthy Indoors Magazine www.healthyindoors.com