What Are VOC Gases And Are They Harmful To Humans?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) may not be visible to the naked eye, but their presence indoors can have a serious impact on both health and safety. Found in everyday products like paints, varnishes, cleaning agents, and building materials, these gases are released into the air around us—often without us realising. From your home and office to industrial and healthcare settings, VOCs are more widespread than most people think.

In the United Kingdom, managing exposure to VOCs isn’t just about protecting wellbeing—it’s also about staying on the right side of the law. With guidance from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and compliance obligations under COSHH regulations and UK Building Standards, understanding what VOCs are and how to handle them has never been more important.

This blog will equip you with essential knowledge about VOC gases: what they are, how they’re released, and why they're a health concern. More importantly, we’ll cover practical, compliant steps for detecting, managing, and reducing exposure—so you can take control of your indoor air quality and meet UK regulatory standards confidently.

Understanding VOC Gases: What You Need to Know

VOC gases, short for volatile organic compounds, are chemical substances that contain carbon and easily turn into vapours or gases at room temperature. These compounds tend to have a high vapour pressure and low water solubility, making them prone to evaporating into the air. Many VOCs are synthetic and commonly found in products used during the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, refrigerants, and paints. Others are released as by-products during water treatment processes, such as chloroform created through chlorination.

You’ll often encounter VOCs in everyday substances such as paint thinners, fuel, industrial solvents, and dry-cleaning chemicals. In enclosed indoor spaces, particularly near certain types of office equipment, high concentrations of VOCs can have both immediate and long-term health impacts. Their volatility mainly stems from their low boiling point—this means VOC molecules readily transition from liquid or solid form into the surrounding air.

Where Are VOC Gases Typically Found?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are common in many household and workplace items across the UK. They’re found in everyday products like paints, varnishes, adhesives, waxes, and a wide range of cleaning agents and industrial degreasers. These substances release VOC gases not only when in use, but also while in storage. Even after application, VOCs can linger in the air for extended periods. For example, formaldehyde—a known VOC—can evaporate from paint at temperatures as low as -19°C, making it a persistent indoor pollutant.

Because of their ability to build up in enclosed spaces and affect air quality, it's essential to monitor VOC levels using a reliable VOC gas detector. These detectors can be tailored to suit specific environments or site sizes, helping ensure compliance with UK health and safety standards and protect both workers and building occupants from harmful exposure.

Everyday VOC Gases You May Be Exposed to Without Realising

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a group of chemicals that easily become vapours or gases. What many people don’t realise is that these substances are present in many of the everyday products we use at home, work, and in public spaces. While they serve various purposes, prolonged exposure to certain VOCs may pose health risks. Here are some common VOCs you're likely to encounter in daily life:

Benzene

Benzene is found in petrol, cigarette smoke, and some glues and paints. In the UK, it's classified as a carcinogen, meaning long-term exposure can increase the risk of cancer. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) sets strict workplace exposure limits to help protect workers. Even in non-industrial settings, reducing exposure by using safer alternatives or ensuring good ventilation is advised.

Acetone

Most commonly recognised as the main ingredient in nail polish remover, acetone also appears in household cleaners and paint strippers. While it’s less harmful than some VOCs, overexposure can still cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and throat. Always use it in a well-ventilated area and store it securely, out of reach of children.

Xylene

Xylene is used in printing, rubber production, and as a solvent in paints and varnishes. It can affect the nervous system if inhaled in high concentrations over time. The HSE recommends wearing protective gear and ensuring adequate airflow when using products containing xylene, especially in enclosed spaces.

Formaldehyde

This chemical is used in building materials, glues, and some household furnishings. In the UK, formaldehyde is a regulated substance due to its classification as a potential human carcinogen. It can cause respiratory issues, especially for those with asthma or allergies. Look for low-formaldehyde or formaldehyde-free products to reduce indoor air pollution.

Ethylene Glycol

Ethylene glycol is the main component in antifreeze, but it’s also found in some paints and industrial products. It's highly toxic if ingested and should always be handled with care. UK safety regulations require clear labelling and proper storage to prevent accidental poisoning, particularly in households with pets and children.

Toluene

Found in paint thinners, adhesives, and some cosmetics, toluene can impact the central nervous system with prolonged exposure. Using toluene-based products in a poorly ventilated room can lead to dizziness, headaches, or more serious health concerns. Opt for low-toxicity alternatives where possible and ensure fresh air circulation.

Understanding the Health Risks of VOC Gases Indoors

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals that easily become vapours or gases. Many VOCs found indoors are manmade—produced through everyday products such as paints, cleaning supplies, building materials, and even cosmetics. These manmade VOCs, also known as anthropogenic VOCs, are regulated under UK health and safety laws, particularly in enclosed environments where their concentrations can be higher than outdoors.

Although most VOCs aren’t immediately poisonous, long-term exposure—even at low levels—can lead to serious health issues. Because these gases are present in such small quantities, they can build up in the body slowly over time, making it difficult to notice symptoms until the effects become more serious.

Some VOCs have a distinct smell, which might lead people to believe they can rely on scent as a warning. However, this can be misleading. Not all VOCs have an odour, and in fact, some of the most harmful ones are completely scentless. Even when a VOC has a strong smell, that doesn’t always mean it poses the greatest health risk. This makes monitoring indoor air quality crucial, especially in homes, offices, and workplaces across the UK, where poor ventilation can increase exposure.

Reliable VOC Gas Detection with Gas Detectors

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are found in many industrial processes, products, and environments across the UK. These gases can pose significant health and safety risks if not properly monitored. That’s why accurate and continuous detection is essential. Using advanced gas detection sensors, businesses can actively monitor VOC levels in real time.

VOCs are commonly released in industries such as manufacturing, chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, and waste management. These environments must stay compliant with UK workplace safety regulations—particularly those enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). To achieve this, installing a reliable VOC detection system is not just a recommendation but a requirement for maintaining legal and operational safety standards.

Why Fixed VOC Detectors are Essential

In areas where VOC gases are likely to accumulate or be released, it is vital to use a fixed VOC gas detector. These systems are designed to be permanently installed, providing 24/7 monitoring of the surrounding air. They continuously sample and measure gas concentrations to alert workers if levels exceed safe thresholds.

Fixed detectors help businesses meet stringent UK environmental and occupational health guidelines. They also reduce the risk of exposure, ensure early leak detection, and help prevent long-term damage to both human health and equipment. For organisations committed to maintaining a safe and legally compliant working environment, investing in high-performance VOC detection is a smart and proactive choice.

VOC Gas Membranes: A Modern Defence Against Indoor Air Pollution

As awareness grows around the health and environmental dangers of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), there has been a push for more advanced methods to control exposure—particularly in the built environment. One of the most effective and forward-thinking solutions is the use of VOC gas membranes: high-performance barriers that help to block or mitigate the intrusion of harmful vapours into buildings, especially from contaminated land.

What Is a VOC Gas Membrane?

A VOC gas membrane is a specially engineered sheet or layer, typically installed within the foundations or walls of a building, designed to stop VOCs and other hazardous ground gases (such as methane or carbon dioxide) from migrating into indoor spaces. These gas membranes are essential in developments built on or near brownfield land, industrial estates, landfills, or former petrol stations, where chemical contamination is more likely.

VOC gas membranes are often used in conjunction with passive or active venting systems, creating a layered approach to protect air quality indoors. They are commonly integrated into commercial buildings, schools, residential developments, and healthcare facilities.

How Do VOC Gas Membranes Work?

These membranes function through chemical resistance and low permeability. They are manufactured from high-specification polymers or composite materials that are resistant to attack from hydrocarbons and solvents. Some also incorporate aluminium foil layers or multi-polymer laminates for added durability and chemical protection.

When properly installed and sealed, VOC membranes form a continuous barrier that prevents toxic gases from entering the building envelope. This process aligns with guidance from British Standards (such as BS 8485:2015+A1:2019) and CIRIA C748, which provide frameworks for assessing risk and designing gas protection systems.

Key Benefits of VOC Gas Membranes

• Improved Indoor Air QualityBy limiting the ingress of harmful vapours, VOC membranes help to maintain safe air standards—critical for occupant wellbeing in homes, schools, and workplaces.

• Regulatory ComplianceIncorporating VOC membranes supports compliance with the UK’s Building Regulations and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, which mandate risk assessments and mitigation for exposure to hazardous substances.

• Long-Term Health and Safety ProtectionThese systems provide robust, long-lasting protection that can prevent chronic exposure issues, including respiratory illness, neurological effects, and even carcinogenic outcomes in high-risk areas.

• Cost-Effective Risk ManagementWhile there is an upfront installation cost, gas membranes can reduce long-term liability by avoiding future remediation, legal claims, or costly retrofits due to air quality breaches.

Why They Matter

Given the UK’s industrial legacy and the growing need for housing on reclaimed land, VOC gas membranes have become an increasingly important part of modern construction practices. Regulatory bodies such as the Environment Agency and local planning authorities often require gas risk assessments and suitable mitigation as part of the planning and development process.

Where high VOC risks are identified, developers are expected to implement suitable gas protection measures, often verified through third-party inspection and post-installation validation. Membranes may also be required in sensitive developments like hospitals, care homes, or nurseries—where vulnerable occupants are more likely to be affected by poor air quality.

Conclusion: Take Charge of Your Indoor Air Quality

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are a silent yet pervasive threat in modern indoor environments. Found in everyday items from cleaning sprays to construction materials, their impact on health can be both subtle and severe—ranging from minor irritations to long-term respiratory or neurological conditions. In the UK, understanding and managing VOC exposure is not only a matter of personal wellbeing but also of legal responsibility, particularly for businesses and property developers.

Whether you’re a homeowner, facilities manager, or construction professional, proactive steps such as using VOC gas detectors, choosing low-emission products, and installing VOC gas membranes can make a measurable difference. Take the initiative today: assess your space, implement proper safeguards, and ensure compliance with UK standards. Cleaner, safer air isn’t just a goal—it’s a right and a responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are VOC gases, and where do they come from?

VOC gases (Volatile Organic Compounds) are a group of carbon-based chemicals that easily evaporate into the air. Common sources include paints, varnishes, adhesives, cleaning agents, and even cosmetics. Many of these are routinely used in homes, offices, and industrial settings across the UK.

Are VOC gases harmful to humans?

Yes, prolonged or high-level exposure to certain VOCs can be harmful. Health effects range from eye and throat irritation to more severe issues such as respiratory illnesses, neurological symptoms, and even cancer, depending on the compound and exposure duration.

What are VOC gas membranes, and do I need one?

VOC gas membranes are barrier systems installed in buildings to prevent toxic gases from seeping in from contaminated ground. They’re especially important in developments built on brownfield sites, near landfills, or former petrol stations. If your project involves high-risk land, a VOC membrane is often essential for legal compliance.

Can everyday household products release harmful VOCs?

Absolutely. Products such as air fresheners, paint, nail polish remover, and even furniture can emit VOCs over time. Opting for low-VOC or VOC-free alternatives and improving ventilation can help reduce exposure significantly.

What should I do if I suspect high VOC levels indoors?

Act promptly. Improve ventilation, remove or replace suspect products, and install a VOC detection system. For serious concerns—especially in workplaces or construction projects—consult environmental health professionals to assess risks and implement corrective measures.

Users Also Say

What are VOC’s and are they safe?

John G**y H***d**k

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) comprise a broad category of chemicals commonly found in various products used for constructing and maintaining our homes. Once introduced into indoor environments, these chemicals are emitted or "off-gas" into the air we breathe. Their presence may not always be detectable by smell, and odour alone is not a reliable measure of potential health risks.  

Typical examples of VOCs encountered in daily life include benzene, ethylene glycol, formaldehyde, methylene chloride, tetrachloroethylene, toluene, xylene, and 1,3-butadiene.

E**er Pé**z

These are essentially compounds that readily evaporate when exposed to a specific environment. A prime example is the solvent in paints: these are typically organic chemicals that, once applied to a surface, are expected to evaporate swiftly. This process leaves behind the filler or pigments, which remain on the applied area, ultimately forming what is known as "dry paint."

H**ry B***er

VOCs typically stand for Volatile Organic Compounds and exist in the form of gases or vapours, rather than particles. Particles include substances such as dust, smoke, or pollen. It is possible for both to be present simultaneously, with safety depending on their respective concentrations.