Organic Gas That Isn’t Good for You: Organic Gas, VOC and Paint

Posted by Lisa Carey

Organic gas, sounds like a “good” thing doesn’t it? But organic gas is really “volatile organic compounds” (VOC’s) which are gasses released into the air by certain solids or liquids. Find out how you are exposed to them, the adverse affects and how you can easily avoid VOC’s through new and improved paints for your home.

Organic gas, sounds like a “good” thing doesn’t it? After all, may of us are trying to use organic meats, fruits and vegetables, as well as other environmentally friendly products, goods, and services. But organic gas is really “volatile organic compounds” (VOC’s) which are gasses released into the air by certain solids or liquids.
VOCs are unstable, carbon-containing compounds that quickly vaporize into the air. When they enter the air, they react with other elements and cause air pollution, and toxicity.
Many of these VOC’s have a negative effect on your health, so it may come as a surprise that they are most commonly found in your in your home, your office and other buildings where you spend time. Some common health effects include: Eye, nose, and throat irritation; headaches, loss of coordination, nausea; and long term exposure may lead to liver kidney, or central nervous system damage. Common symptoms include: conjunctival irritation, nose and throat discomfort, headache, allergic skin reaction, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. According to the EPA, concentrations of VOC’s are ten times higher inside than outside. Why and how do VOC’s occur and what can be done about them?
VOC’s are most commonly emitted through common household cleaners, pesticides, paints, building materials and office or crafting supplies. VOC’s, or organic gas, can continue to be released into the air long after the material has been used, and even while it is being stored (in some cases). One of the most prevalent forms of VOC producing products are in the form of household painting supplies, from primers to paints. This source is second only to automobiles.
Because of the adverse health effects, not to mention the horrible chemical aroma that lingers in your home long after use, new environmental regulations (and consumer demand), many paint manufacturers are now offering paints that have low (some times also referred to as low odor) or zero VOC’s. Among these manufacturers are some consumers use everyday for their paint supplies: AFM (American Formulating and Manufacturing), Benjamin Moore & Co. (Pristine® Eco-Spec® ), BioShield Paints, Devoe Paint, Duron Paints and Wallcoverings (Genesis Odor-Free products), Home Depot, Lowe’s, Kelly Moore, and Sherwin-Williams (HealthSpec® paints). Low VOC or Zero VOC paints do cost more, at approximately $30.00 a gallon, but compared to the $24.99 for the regular Lowe’s paint, it is a small cost difference that pays off big.
Low Odor or Low VOC’s Paints Defined
Low Odor or Low VOC paints are those that contain VOC content (organic gas released) that meets the EPA standard of 250 g/L for latex paints or 380 g/L for oil based paint. But it is also possible to find paints that can be better than these standards. Low VOC paints are generally marketed by a name brand manufacturer and should contain at least 50 g/L VOC benchmark.
Zero VOC Paints Defined
Zero VOC is not a truly accurate statement. It really means that there are very, very low levels of VOC. Usually paints marketed as Zero VOC’s will have VOC’s in the range of under 5 g/L.
Remember, when adding pigment your VOC content will increase to a certain extent whether you are using Low or
No VOC paints.
Alternatives to regular paint also include Non-toxic or natural paints and finishes. These products are made with raw or natural ingredients such as plant oils, resins, dyes and natural minerals such as clay, talc and bees’ wax.
There are two types of natural paints and finishes, water based and oil based. Water based barely have any aroma, while oil based have an aroma of essential oils and citrus. The latest to arrive on the scene are Ceramic Paints. This paint uses microscopic ceramic beads as a key component of the paint film and in some cases includes antimicrobial protection. This product not only provides the benefits of the natural paints, but also protects and prevents mold, mildew and bacteria from growing. If you are unable to use it throughout your home, some key rooms you may wish to use it in include the kitchen, bathroom and nursery. Ceramic paints may fall into the category of either Low or Zero VOC’s, depending on the manufacturer.
There are many benefits to using Low, Zero VOC or natural paint products.
The benefits include the reduction of groundwater, landfill, and ozone contaminants. It does this because of the low release of gas, but also because it is not deemed hazardous waste. This is not only helpful to the environment but makes disposal much easier. Low, Zero VOC, or natural paint products also reduce the harmful health effects that regular paint products expose you to. They contain low odor during application, helping those with (and without) allergies or sensitivities to occupy their home or office that much sooner without any complaints about odors or harmful side effects. The benefits of using these products also provides home and business owners with a more effective paint product as Low, Zero VOC’s and Natural paint products are durable, easy to clean, and perform well in application and hiding previous flaws.
How are Low/Zero/Natural paints determined and regulated?
An independent non-profit agency, Green Seal, has established voluntary standards for VOC content in alternative paint products, including paints, stains, and strippers. The certification process is based on VOC content, durability, performance, and the absence or lack of chemicals, along with other criteria.
To make sure that the product you are purchasing has been tested for Low or Zero VOC, look for the Green Seal “mark of environmental responsibility” and/or a statement that it meets Green Seal Standard GS-11.

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