Research indicates that the average person spends between 70-90% of their time
indoors. Thus, for many people, the risks to health may be greater
due to exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors. With the
emergence of more tightly constructed or remodeled homes, the quality
of air indoors has become an important issue.
Indoor air pollution is usually caused by the accumulation of contaminants
from various sources inside the building. Occupants may complain
of symptoms, such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, eye irritation,
itching, difficulty breathing, coughing and sneezing, to name a
few. Unfortunately, many illnesses can also cause many of these
symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose an indoor air quality
problem.
The Cook County Department of Public Health's Indoor Air Quality
program responds to complaints and provides consultation to homeowners,
building operators and local municipalities on various indoor air
pollutants. On-site assessments are conducted for residential properties
and school buildings in suburban Cook County.
