Some of the strictest chemical emission standards in the world are awarded to products that help reduce indoor air pollution and exposure to chemicals.

The majority of daily chemical exposure in humans occurs through the air we breathe in our homes, offices, schools, and other enclosed spaces. These chemicals, carried in the air, are often referred to as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and are commonly used to manufacture building materials, interior furnishings, cleaning products, and personal care items.

Research conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other researchers has found that VOCs are prevalent indoors and their levels can be two to a thousand times higher indoors than outdoors.

At any given time, indoor air may contain 50 to hundreds of individual VOCs. Some may produce low levels of irritating odors, but many have no discernible smell. Many VOCs are irritants and can cause headaches, eye, nose, and throat irritation, and dizziness. Prolonged exposure to specific VOCs can lead to chronic illnesses or cancer. Some VOCs are toxic at high concentrations.

The products we use to build and furnish our indoor environments can have a significant impact on indoor air pollution levels. Products certified by GREENGUARD Certification have been scientifically proven to meet some of the world's strictest third-party chemical emission standards, helping to create healthier indoor environments and reduce the risk of exposure to chemicals.

Our UL GREENGUARD Certification Program has established test methods and emission limits for these product categories:

• Construction materials, furniture, and furnishings
• Electronic equipment
• Cleaning and maintenance products
• Medical devices for breathing gas pathways

GREENGUARD Certification GREENGUARD Certification emission limits were first used as procurement specifications for furniture and commercial building products by the EPA and the state of Washington. GREENGUARD Certification criteria have formed the basis of LEED credits for low-emitting furniture since 2002. GREENGUARD Certified office furniture products also comply with the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association (BIFMA) X7.1 standard and BIFMA e3 credit 7.6.