Indoor Air Pollution
Information here relates to air quality in homes. Some is relevant to air quality in workplaces, but detailed information on this should be sourced from WorkCover NSW or the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission.
Indoor air pollution can pose a risk to health. As we spend so much time in our homes, it is important that the air is as clean as possible.
Indoor air pollution can come from outdoors, or from sources in homes.
Common pollutants from outdoors are fine particles and nitrogen dioxide.
Common sources of pollutants in homes are:
Unflued gas heating appliances are heaters that burn fuel in the home, with no vent to remove the fumes, eg. portable gas heaters.
- Mould or dampness
It is important that homes are well-ventilated so that pollutants from indoor sources, and moisture, do not build up. Moisture control is important as dampness encourages both dust mites and mould to grow, both of which can impact on your health.
Unpleasant odours can be an indication of a build up of pollutants. If you notice unpleasant odours its best to identify and remove the source, and improve the flow of fresh air into your home.
We do not recommend the use of ozone generators for managing indoor air pollution or odour problems.
Other links:
- Asthma page in A-Z health topics
- Asthma and air pollution
- enHealth Healthy Homes booklet (3.1MB)
- enHealth Unflued Gas Heaters and Your Health Brochure
- DIY Safe - advice on avoiding hazards from home renovations
This web page is managed and authorised by Environmental Health of Centre for Health Protection of the NSW Department of Health. Last updated: 31 March, 2009