VOCs are usually released into the air from synthetics and composite materials. The release of the pollutant usually occurs during construction, finishing, and furnishing of a home because of the nature of its host materials. VOCs can also be released by chemicals in aerosol sprays, paint, high-concentration cleaning chemicals, cooking stoves, air fresheners, office equipment, or cigarette smoke.

There are no specified symptoms for VOCs since such a wide variety of compounds are encompassed by the term "VOC." Sometimes even specific VOC health effects are hard to detail because of the distinct possibility that various VOCs may mix with one another to form concentrations below those which are detectable, but these compounds can unfortunately still adversely effect the homeowner. The only descriptions which can be given for VOCs are very general and apply mostly to high concentration levels. At a high concentration, VOCs can act as central nervous system depressants, irritants, narcotics, and carcinogens with the potential to significantly increase a person's risk of acquiring cancer.

VOC problems are widespread having been reported extensively across North America and in most every developed nation across the globe. Common symptoms from these reports include headaches, drowsiness, eye irritation, rashes, and respiratory and sinus problems.

Exposure guidelines vary as to the type of product. Since there are over 400 different compounds, no attempt has been made to publish exposure guidelines. 

The best way to prevent VOC pollution is by checking with manufacturers of products regarding their VOC off-gasing potential. Though you most likely won't be able to eliminate every source of VOCs in your home, avoiding products with high emissions probability will substantially lower any off-gassing in your home. Besides product choice, here are a few handy tips on avoiding a buildup of VOCs in the home:

1) Try to use the least amount of carpeting possible and wherever using carpeting, try to avoid products with a latex backing, possibly using wool or cotton rugs instead.

2) Instead of gluing carpet to your floor, use nail strips.

3) When painting, check for "low VOC" on the label and use water-based paint and sealants

4) Try to use solid wood for cabinets and counters, or when using composite wood seal the material with water based/low toxicity sealant.

5) A balanced mechanical ventilation system (such as a heat recovery ventilator) helps to exhaust indoor air and replace it with fresh outdoor air. Recommended ventilation rate is for one-third of the air in the home should be exchanged per hour.

If VOCs are still a concern, another method to reduce emissions is to try a "bake-out." This is a term for heating the house to a high temperature after construction, renovation or refurnishing. Temperatures are usually raised to around 100ø F (38ø C), then all windows are opened and the ventilation system is allowed to run at full capacity, repeating the process for two or three days. In theory, the high temperatures cause the VOCs to quickly evaporate rather than gradually over a period of months or years, and then the pollutants are released outside. While some studies show that a "bake-out" can reduce VOC emissions by up to 75% immediately, others show that the bake-out causes release of other chemicals which might have remained hidden indefinitely. In these cases, VOC emission still drop, but the process can take over a week to reach an acceptable VOC concentration level. Opinions are still divided over whether a bake-out is the best course of action to take in reducing VOC emissions.