How can something that still has VOCs still be considered non-toxic? I get there is no mineral spirits and some of the other bad stuff...but there are other products on the market with ZERO VOC content. SAMPLE - Bioshield, Hard Oil Wood Stains & Sealers

Question

How can something that still has VOCs still be considered non-toxic? I get there is no mineral spirits and some of the other bad stuff...but there are other products on the market with ZERO VOC content. SAMPLE - Bioshield, Hard Oil Wood Stains & Sealers

Status: Open Jan 24, 2020 - 10:22 AM

1answer

Answer

Jan 29, 2020 - 08:51 AM

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may be applied to chemicals that are either safe or toxic. Baking bread and cutting open an orange, for example, both produce VOCs but these are not bad. However, according to the EPA definition, anything that is volatile, organic and a compound that combines with ground level ozone and creates smog is classified as a VOC. The purpose of the VOC rules are to reduce emissions of these types of chemicals in order to control outdoor air pollution.There are also medical and cosmetic grade VOCs that are safe and some are used in paints and coatings but they do not react with ground level ozone and therefore do not emit hazardous air pollution.