While workplace patterns have stabilised since the COVID-19 pandemic, hybrid work models, high-density urban living, and increasingly airtight buildings mean that indoor environmental quality (IEQ) remains a critical design and construction priority.

As buildings become more energy-efficient and better sealed, managing indoor air quality (IAQ) becomes even more important.

Reduced natural air infiltration can inadvertently concentrate airborne pollutants if materials and finishes are not carefully selected. From HVAC design and ventilation strategies to flooring stems, adhesives, coatings, and sealants, every component contributes to the overall indoor environment and occupant well-being.

A key indicator of indoor air hygiene is the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are emitted as gases from certain solids and liquids and are commonly found in construction and maintenance products such as paints, adhesives, sealants, flooring systems, engineered wood products and cleaning agents.

These compounds can off-gass into indoor air during installation and, in some cases, over extended periods. Exposure to elevated VOC levels has been associated with short-term effects such as eye and respiratory irritation, headaches, and dizziness, and in some cases, longer-term health concerns depending on the specific compounds and exposure duration.

VOC Emission Testing Methodologies

Several internationally recognised testing methodologies are used to assess VOC emissions from construction products. These include:

• GEV-EMICODE
• Blue Angel
• AgBB
• California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method

While all of these frameworks assess VOC emissions under controlled-chamber conditions, their stringency varies in total VOC limits, individual substance thresholds, and testing durations.

Comparative analysis, including studies conducted by independent laboratories, such as Eurofins, indicates that the GEV-EMICODE testing method typically uses more stringent emission thresholds than some other schemes.

VOC Emission Testing in Green Star and International Rating Tools

In Australia, Green Star remains the leading sustainability rating system for buildings, administered by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).

The latest Green Star rating tool, “Green Star Buildings”, offers a credit based on the project passing an on-site VOC emission test in addition to using products with low VOC content as a minimum requirement (Credit 13 – Exposure to Toxins). Green Star Buildings recommends projects to use products that have undergone a VOC emissions test to mitigate the risk of failing an on-site VOC emission test.

Internationally recognised rating tools such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) also reward the specification of low-emitting materials under the Indoor Environmental Quality credits. LEED references VOC emission testing methodologies such as GEV-EMICODE and CDPH Standard Method, as evidence of compliance, depending on product category and project pathway.

Major building sustainability rating tools, including Green Star, LEED, the Living Building Challenge (LBC), and WELL, are increasingly aligned in their approach to VOC emissions. This alignment reflects a clear global shift toward verified low-emission materials, supported by recognised third-party testing, rather than relying solely on declared VOC content.