The growing asthma & allergy friendly(TM) Certification Program announced today that it has developed and adopted a certification standard and testing protocol for Non-Disinfecting Hard Surface Spray Cleaning Products. The asthma & allergy friendly(TM) Certification Program - administered by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) in partnership with the international research organization, Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) - is an independent, non-exclusive certification program created to scientifically test and identify consumer products that are more suitable for people with asthma and allergies.
According to AAFA, a growing body of scientific evidence indicates that air within homes and other buildings can contain more allergens and polluting agents than outdoor air. Individuals who suffer from asthma and allergies are more likely to react to the various biological and non-biological allergens and irritants found indoors such as house dust, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and more. Removal, avoidance and control of these types of allergens and irritants in the home are accepted by health experts as appropriate preventative strategies for people with asthma and allergic diseases, complementing the overall concepts of home health and indoor air quality (IAQ).
House Dust Can Be Unhealthy
Particles within house dust vary greatly with contributions being made by a myriad of different organic and inorganic materials (such as human skin, animal dander, mold spores, dust mites, pollen, textile fibers, microorganisms and toxins). Depending on its contents, dust can be categorized as irritating, allergenic or sensitizing and the health risk depends upon the type of dust and the exposure level.