If you have ever painted a room and ended up with a headache, then you’ve experienced a High-VOC Paint Assault. That pungent smell can indicate the presence of forever chemicals, Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). They have strong Carbon-Fluorine bonds and are highly resistant to heat, water, grease, and biological degradation. Simply, they can build up in water, food, and your body, becoming increasingly hard to break down and remove. Hence the nickname, forever chemicals. These are commonly found in conventional paint.

The Risks Associated with High Levels of VOC

The risks of hosting forever chemicals in your body are catastrophic. Kidney, liver and testicular cancers, hormone disruption leading to reduced fertility, immunity impairment, and a compound build-up in your body. Having some forever chemicals in your body is almost unavoidable, however there are some factors you can control, such as the paint you choose. Conventional paints may contain high levels of VOCs, volatile organic compounds, some being classified as forever chemicals if they contain PFAs. VOCs can be released into the air, affecting air quality and creating health risks. The air pollution from high-VOC paint can persist for months after application.

High-VOC paint contains 100g per litre or more of volatile organic compounds, causing harmful fumes that can cause headaches, allergies and respiratory reactions.

High-VOC paints pose a risk not just during initial decorating. If you think using professional painters will eliminate the risks, think again. Over time, general wear and tear can cause chips, drilling into the wall removes small particles, and some of these end up in water sources. The microscopic paint chips may end up washed down stormwater drains, contributing to the microplastics that marine life absorbs and may then be consumed by humans.

Why Choose Low VOC Paint?

Low-VOC paint must have 50g or less of volatile organic compounds. Low levels of VOC in paint greatly reduces fumes, odours and the risks of adverse reactions. 

Low-VOC paints are ideal and recommended for schools, hospitals and day care settings due to the lower risk of reactions. Using the environmentally responsible choice also minimises the risk of exposure to chemicals and microplastics for our younger generation. This makes opting for Low-VOC paints in the home, especially in the bedroom, a popular choice.

While the only obvious drawbacks of using low-VOC paints are a slightly longer dry time and more conscientious application, the benefits are long-term for the environment and all its inhabitants. Contact your local Professional House Painters who use paint brands that are members of the "Green Building Council of Australia" for more information on low-VOC paint applications and benefits.