HOUSEHOLD INSPECTION
- Parents/caregivers of participating children/youth will answer questions about the home
- Household inspection using standardized tool
- Installation of air quality monitors
- Installation of radon detectors
INDOOR AIR QUALITY
01. Collection of settled dust
Household dust will be collected and analyzed for endotoxin, dust-mite allergens and fungal glucan. These substances are harmful to lung/respiratory health and are linked to bronchitis, asthma and allergies.
02. Monitoring of indoor air quality
A monitor will be set up in each participating household to measure and record the levels of:
- carbon dioxide (from breathing),
- carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide (both released from the burning of fuel),
- PM2.5 or atmospheric particulate matter (from power plants, cars, burning wood, etc) and
- formaldehyde (from smoking, cars, burning wood, etc).
High levels of these chemicals can affect lung/respiratory health. The monitor will also record the relative humidity and the temperature in the home.
03. Measurement of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are released as gases from many household products such as paint, varnishes, wax, cleansers and disinfectants, air fresheners, dry-cleaned clothing and pesticides. Exposure to high levels of VOCs can result in symptoms ranging from irritation of the eyes, nose and throat to damage to the liver and kidney or even cancer. To date, little information is available regarding VOCs in First Nations communities.
04. Radon
Radon is an invisible, odourless and tasteless gas that comes from the breakdown of uranium in soil and rock. When radon is released in enclosed spaces, like homes, it can accumulate to high levels and become a health risk. Monitors will be left in participants’ homes for 90 days to record the level of this radioactive gas.