Most people think of their house as a sanctuary from toxic air. And yet, according to a 2005 State study, Californians spend $45 billion a year on the health effects of indoor air pollution. California lawmakers have failed to pass legislation that would tighten controls on residential air quality, though laws targeting specific pollutants -- like a recent phase-out of formaldehyde from particle board -- have been more successful. QUEST brought a team of commercial air monitors to a San Francisco home to sniff out some common indoor air pollutants, and explain what can be done about them.
You may listen to the "Indoor Air Pollution" Radio report online, as well as find additional links and resources. Also see additional photos for this story.
Amy Standen is a Reporter for QUEST and Radio News at KQED-FM.