Measurement

Why study VOCs, radon and environmental parameters (Temperature, Humidity and CO₂)?

• Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects. VOCs are components of many household products such as paints, varnishes, aerosol sprays and cleaning products. VOCs exposure are consistently higher indoors than outdoors and can cause adverse health effects such as eye and respiratory tract irritation, headaches, dizziness.

• Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas which has no taste, colour or smell. It is formed in the ground by the radioactive decay of uranium which is present in all rocks and soils. It is categorised by the World Health Organisation as a carcinogen and is estimated to be linked to up to 300 cases of lung cancer in Ireland each year.

Outside radon is diluted to very low levels but radon can enter a home from the ground through small cracks/gaps in the floors of homes and accumulate to higher levels within the home. The acceptable level, or Reference Level, for homes in Ireland is 200 Becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/m³).

• CO₂

Carbon dioxide is a naturally occurring gas which is exhaled by humans and can create an uncomfortable indoor environment if there is not enough ventilation within the home. For this reason, measuring CO₂ levels provides information on indoor air quality and ventilation performance.

• Temperature, Humidity and Pressure

Measurements of temperature, humidity and air pressure will be measured to evaluate the thermal comfort of the home.

Currently, there is little information on whether there is an impact of indoor air quality through having an energy efficient home. The VALIDATE will be a first step in evaluating ‘A’ rated residential dwellings for the indoor air quality and thermal comfort.