Volatile Organic Compounds: What Do They Mean for Businesses?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are present in many industrial products, including solvents, fuels, paints and some cleaning chemicals. Understanding where VOCs come from and how they are managed can help businesses reduce exposure and meet environmental requirements.

What are volatile organic compounds?

Volatile organic compounds are carbon-containing chemicals that readily evaporate into the air. Some VOCs can be harmful to human health and the environment, which is why their use and emissions are regulated in many industrial applications.

Where are VOCs found?

Industrial sources can include fuels, solvents, thinners, coatings, paints, adhesives and cleaning products. The level of risk depends on the substance, concentration, route of exposure and conditions in which it is used.

Why should businesses manage VOCs?

Workplace exposure to some VOCs can cause short-term effects such as irritation, headaches or nausea, while prolonged exposure to certain substances can present more serious health risks. VOC vapours can also create fire or explosion risks in suitable conditions.

From an environmental perspective, VOC emissions can contribute to atmospheric pollution and ozone formation. Businesses using significant quantities may therefore have specific emissions, reporting and solvent-management obligations.

Can parts cleaning reduce VOC use?

Water-based cleaning solutions can replace solvent-based products in many parts cleaning applications. Safetykleen offers aqueous cleaning solutions designed to clean a wide range of contaminants without VOC emissions, while non-flammable formulations can also be used in automated and ultrasonic equipment.

When solvents are still required

Some applications may still require a solvent-based product, particularly where the contaminant or process demands it. In these cases, appropriate equipment, ventilation, operating controls and waste management are important to reduce exposure and manage emissions.

Take a process-wide approach

Managing VOCs effectively means looking beyond one cleaning product. Chemical selection, machine design, ventilation, operator training, storage and waste management all have a role to play in creating a controlled cleaning process.