Healthy Indoor Environments | Rutherford County

The average American spends roughly 70 percent of his or her time indoors, while the youngest and oldest among us may be indoors for as much as 90 percent of the time. Research shows a relationship between indoor environments and people’s behaviors as they impact illness and injury. This is especially true for children who are typically more susceptible to biological, chemical, and physical exposures. Children’s rapid development, beginning even before birth, renders them vulnerable to environmental toxicants. Children breathe more air, drink more water, and eat more food for their body weight than do adults. Common childhood behaviors, such as hand to mouth activity and playing on floors, increase their risk even more.

The elderly are also at higher risk. The aging process often shrinks airways and diminishes both strength and balance, making older adults more susceptible to lung diseases and injuries. Regardless of age or health status, everyone benefits from healthy spaces.

Health Issues

Asthma
Allergies
Bronchitis
Pneumonia
Ear Infections
Eye, nose and throat irritations
Poisonings
Unintentional injuries
Cancer
Heart Disease
Death

Environmental Issues

Allergens
Asbestos
Combustion products
Pests
Lead-based paints
Mold
Organic gases
Pesticide residues
Radon
Hazadous household products
Injury Hazards

Providing safe and healthy places to live, work and play

Houses, schools, buildings, any “inside” spaces, have the potential to affect human health and safety. Examining all the environmental issues and possible hazards can be overwhelming. So what’s the best way to make sure our indoor environments are as healthy and safe as possible

Seven Principles of a Healthy Indoor Space

Damp and wet environments make it possible for dust mites, cockroaches, rodents, and molds to grow and thrive. Repair all plumbing and structural leaks immediately. Make sure rainwater flows away from the structure. Open windows or use exhaust fans so steam does not build up in bathrooms or kitchens.

Clean environments help reduce pest infestations and exposure to harmful irritants, such as pollens, dust and toxic contaminants. First, try to keep these things outside. Then, use smooth and cleanable surfaces. Reduce clutter, as it serves as a place for pests to live and dust to accumulate. Always damp mop and dust, to keep from scattering dust into the air and having it settle somewhere else. Always follow label directions on cleaning products.

A supply of fresh air can help reduce exposure to indoor allergens and asthma triggers as well as other contaminants. The best solution is to install a ventilation system into the heating and cooling systems. If this is not possible, use exhaust fans and open windows, especially when cleaning, cooking, or using chemicals.

All pests, including cockroaches, mice and rats, require food, water, and shelter. If these are lacking, then pests will go elsewhere to live. The best approach in combatting pests is to use Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The three components of IPM are:

Monitor – Know if you have pests, what they are, and how severe the infestation may be.
Prevent – Keep the pests from getting inside by sealing all cracks and holes in the outside walls and making certain that food, water, and shelter are not easily available to pests.
Control – Once the pest has been identified, first use the least toxic method of control, such as a trap. If pesticides are needed, use the appropriate type, placing it where pests are usually found (cracks and crevices).

Contaminants that can be found inside include lead, radon, pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), environmental tobacco smoke, and carbon-monoxide. To keep indoor environments contaminant free, test for radon, install carbon monoxide detectors, use lead-safe practices to fix deteriorating lead paint, establish smoke-free environments, and store and use chemicals, paints and cleaning products safely.

Many injuries occur indoors, especially within the home. These include falls, burns, and poisonings. Prevent injuries by properly labeling and storing all chemicals (including medicines and personal-care products), securing loose rugs, keeping stairs in good repair, removing hard and sharp surfaces, and installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Poorly maintained structures are at risk for pests, moisture, deteriorating lead paint, and other structural problems. Inspect, clean, and repair routinely. Take care of minor repairs and problems before they become large repairs and major problems.