Accessories facilitate the installation of sensors.
Refrigerant Leak Sensors
Sensors for detecting refrigerant leaks.
Radon Sensors
Radon sensors for direct ventilation control.
PMx Sensors
PMX sensors monitor dust particles.
CO2 sensors
CO2 sensors for air quality monitoring.
CO2 + humidity
CO2 + humidity sensors
VOC Sensors
VOC sensors detect harmful substances.
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The Impact of VOCs on Health and Productivity in the Workplace
HomeUnclassifiedThe Impact of VOCs on Health and Productivity in the Workplace
The Impact of VOC on Health and Productivity in the Workplace
The quality of the air we breathe directly affects not only our health but also our ability to concentrate, make decisions, and work efficiently. One of the key parameters is the concentration of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC / TVOC).
What risks does a high level of VOC pose in the workplace, and how can VOC sensors help improve the health and performance of employees?
Why are VOCs a Problem in the Workplace?
In indoor environments, there are many sources of VOCs, such as: new furniture, flooring, adhesives, paints and varnishes, cleaning agents, printers, carpets, or even perfumes and cosmetics. We also release VOCs ourselves through biological breathing and other biological processes. In enclosed spaces with inadequate ventilation, concentrations rise rapidly.
Short-term high levels of TVOC cause:
irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
headaches
fatigue and drowsiness
dizziness or nausea
VOC and Productivity – The Numbers Speak Clearly
The most well-known research from Harvard (COGfx Study) showed a dramatic impact:
In environments with high VOC (typical of conventional buildings), cognitive performance of employees was up to 61% lower than in an optimized “green” environment.
With even better ventilation and low VOC, scores improved by as much as 101%.
Other studies link an increase in TVOC of 500 µg/m³ to a 13% decrease in cognitive scores across all tested areas (decision-making, reaction speed, concentration).
This means slower decision-making, more mistakes, lower creativity, and overall lower performance.
Companies thus lose tens of percent of productivity – and employees are often unaware of the cause (they simply feel tired or have a headache).
Long-term exposure can lead to allergies and asthma. Studies show that in many offices, TVOC levels exceed the recommended limits set by the WHO (World Health Organization) – ideally below 0.25 mg/m³ or 250 µg/m³) or stricter standards like RESET – below 0.20 ppm for high-performance buildings.
The Role of VOC Sensors – Real-Time Prevention
VOC sensors monitor TVOC concentration in real-time and allow for immediate response:
They detect an increase in concentration (e.g., after painting, new furniture, or intensive cleaning).
They trigger automatic ventilation increases (demand-controlled ventilation).
They send alerts to the facility manager or directly to the BMS system.
They help meet certifications like WELL, LEED, or RESET, which emphasize monitoring TVOC.
This helps keep TVOC below 400–500 µg/m³ (recommended for a healthy and productive environment) and minimizes the risks of SBS – Sick Building Syndrome.
Why Recommend Placing VOC Sensors in Workspaces?
High concentrations of VOC in the workplace are not just a health risk – they directly lead to productivity losses, increased absenteeism, and higher sick leave costs. VOC sensors allow these issues to be detected and addressed before employees start experiencing symptoms.
Check out our offer of [combined VOC + CO₂ sensors] or [sensors for offices and open spaces](https://www.cidla.cz/cidla-pro-kancelare/). We would be happy to advise you on selecting the right solution for your project – from a small office to an administrative building.
