Human reactions to low concentrations of volatile organic compounds

Abstract A group of 62 human subjects were exposed for 2.75 h to a mixture of 22 volatile organic compounds known to be indoor air pollutants. Three total concentrations of 0, 5 and 25 mg/m 3 of the same 22 compounds were used. The subjects were all healthy and without asthma, allergy, or chronic bronchitis but claimed often to suffer from dry mucous membranes in eyes, nose, or upper airways. By using a questionnaire on 26 different air quality aspects, a significant effect of exposure was found for questions related to general air quality, odour, ability to concentrate, and/or mucous membrane irritation. Continuous evaluation of irritation in eyes, nose, and throat showed significant correlation to exposure both at 5 and 25 mg/m 3 . The effect was acute and showed no signs of adaptation. A digit span performance test showed decreased scores during exposure.