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.
Combined Sensors
Combined sensors for air quality monitoring
CO₂ + humidity
CO₂ + Humidity Sensors
Latest news
The impact of VOCs on health and productivity in the workplace
Introduction»Articles»The impact of VOCs on health and productivity in the workplace
The Influence of VOCs on Health and Productivity in the Workplace
\nThe 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 (VOCs / TVOCs).
\n
\nWhat risks does a high level of VOCs in the workplace pose, and how can VOC sensors help improve the health and performance of employees?
\n
\n
\n
\n
Why are VOCs a Problem in the Workplace?
\n
\n
\nIn 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 through biological respiration and other biological processes. In enclosed spaces with insufficient ventilation, concentrations rise quickly.
\n
\n
\n
\n
\nShort-term high levels of TVOCs cause:
\n
\n \t
irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat
\n \t
headaches
\n \t
fatigue and drowsiness
\n \t
dizziness or nausea
\n
\n
\n
\n
VOCs and Productivity – The Numbers Speak Clearly
\n
\n
\nThe most well-known research from Harvard (COGfx Study) showed a dramatic impact:
\n
\n \t
In environments with high VOCs (typical for conventional buildings), cognitive (thinking) performance of employees was up to 61% lower than in an optimized “green” environment.
\n \t
With even better ventilation and low VOCs, scores improved by as much as 101%.
\n \t
Other studies link an increase in TVOCs of 500 µg/m³ to a 13% decrease in cognitive scores across all tested areas (decision-making, reaction speed, concentration).
\n
\n
\n
\n
\nThis means slower decision-making, more mistakes, lower creativity, and overall lower performance.
\n
\nCompanies thus lose tens of percent of productivity – and employees are unaware of the cause (“just” feeling tired or having a headache).
\n
\nLong-term exposure can lead to allergies and asthma. Studies show that in many offices, TVOC values exceed the recommended limits of 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.
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
The Role of VOC Sensors – Real-Time Prevention
\n
\n
\nVOC sensors monitor TVOC concentration in real-time and allow for immediate response:
\n
\n \t
They detect an increase in concentration (e.g., after painting, new furniture, or intensive cleaning).
\n \t
They trigger automatic ventilation increase (demand-controlled ventilation).
\n \t
They send alerts to the facility manager or directly to the BMS system.
\n \t
They help meet WELL, LEED, or RESET certifications, which emphasize monitoring TVOCs.
\n
\nThis helps keep TVOCs below 400–500 µg/m³ (recommended for a healthy and productive environment) and minimizes the risks of SBS – sick building syndrome
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
Why Recommend Placing VOC Sensors in Workspaces?
\nHigh concentrations of VOCs in the workplace are not just a health risk – they are direct losses in productivity, higher absenteeism, and costs for sick leave. VOC sensors allow these problems to be detected and addressed before employees start experiencing symptoms.
\n
\nCheck out our offer of [combined VOC + CO₂ sensors] or [sensors for offices and open spaces](https://www.cidla.cz/cidla-pro-kancelare/). We are happy to advise you on selecting the right solution for your project – from a small office to an administrative building.
\n
\n
\n
\nVIEW VOC SENSORS
