Volatile organic compound (VOC) definitions vary worldwide, with emission standards in place due to their negative environmental and health effects. The US has VOC limits under the Clean Air Act to reduce ozone levels and protect people. Many products contain VOCs, including architectural coatings, paints, adhesives, photocopying equipment, and vehicle exhausts. Regional and local governments may have additional VOC limits. Inconsistency in standards creates problems for affected industries, with manufacturers, packers, importers, and distributors all affected.
The definition of volatile organic compound (VOC) varies from country to country. Even within one country, there are often disputes. A general scientific definition of VOC is an organic compound that evaporates or vaporizes under normal conditions. These vapors and gases are emitted by various materials. Because VOCs can have negative effects on the environment, there are emission standards known as VOC limits which vary around the world.
In the United States, VOC limits fall under the Clean Air Act due to their potential to cause or contribute to excessive ozone levels that violate national ambient air quality standards. Ozone is a pollutant that contributes to smog. The destruction of agricultural crops and damage to forests are examples often cited as environmental threats posed by VOCs.
Ozone and VOCs are also thought to have adverse health effects. Respiratory symptoms, effects on physical performance and lung infections are some of the alleged health threats. VOCs tend to pose different health threats depending on life circumstances and exposure. A worker who is constantly exposed in an enclosed environment is more likely to suffer long-term effects than a young, healthy person who spends a few minutes in an environment where VOCs are present, for example.
There are many products that contain VOCs. Most architectural coatings, such as those applied to fixed structures and mobile buildings, are an example of this. Architectural substances are believed to be a major source of VOC emissions in some states. This includes products such as paints or adhesives. Wall coverings, photocopying equipment and vehicle exhausts are also sources.
By regulating VOCs, the government is trying to reduce damage to the environment and at the same time protect people. The issue of VOC limits in federal regulation in the United States dates back to 1990, when Congress established a regulatory committee. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a broad definition of VOCs, and instead of providing a list of included substances, the agency provides a list of exemptions.
Regional and local governments may have additional and variable VOC limits. California, for example, has developed its own standards. In the US, states have the authority to implement their own compliance testing plans. If the federal government, however, wishes to conduct testing within a state, it is not bound by that state’s testing methods.
It is argued that the inconsistency of standards creates problems for the industries whose products are affected. VOC limits and variable test methods present sales and marketing complications. Both consumer and commercial products are regulated. Manufacturers, packers, importers and distributors are all affected by VOC limits.
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