PRO DRY LLC

Biological Pollutants in Your Home

This brochure explains indoor biological pollution, health effects of biological pollutants, and how to control their growth and buildup. One third to one half of all structures have damp conditions that may encourage development of pollutants such as molds and bacteria, which can cause allergic reactions, including asthma, and spread infectious diseases.  The brochure was prepared by the American Lung Association and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, and updated by CPSC in 1997, describes corrective measures for achieving moisture control and cleanliness.   Home Biological Pollutants

Allergic Reactions to Biological Pollutants 

Allergic reactions are a major concern associated with exposure to biological pollutants.  Allergic reactions, which range from rhinitis, nasal congestion, conjunctival inflammation, urticaria to asthma. Notable triggers for these diseases are allergens derived from house dust mites; other arthropods, including cockroaches; pets (cats, dogs, birds, rodents); molds; and protein-containing furnishings, including feathers, kapok, etc. In occupational settings, more unusual allergens (bacterial enzymes, algae) have caused asthma epidemics. Probably most proteins of non-human origin can cause asthma in a subset of any appropriately exposed population.  Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health Professionals section on: Animal Dander, Molds, Dust Mites, Other Biologicals

Indoor Air Pollution

An EPA publication, assists health professionals (especially primary care physicians) in diagnosis of patient symptoms related to indoor air pollution problems. It addresses health problems that may be caused by contaminants encountered daily in homes and offices. Organized according to pollutant and pollutant groups such as environmental tobacco smoke, VOCs, biological pollutants, and sick building syndrome, this booklet lists key signs and symptoms from exposure to these pollutants, provides a diagnostic checklist and quick reference summary, and includes suggestions for remedial action.  It also includes references for information contained in each section. The booklet was developed by the American Lung Association, the American Medical Association, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, and the EPA. EPA Document Reference Number 402-R-94-007, 1994.  Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health Professionals