These days, the acronym, "VOC" is labeled on anything to do with priming, painting or finishing.  The abbreviation represents the term,  "volatile organic compounds." But, how harsh or "volatile," are these VOCs? Unlike, the almost subtle undertones of baking soda, VOCs boasts notes of noxious astringent fumes.

To find the answers, to these questions, The Consumer Journal did a little research, and here are some facts about VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

• Most household products are made of chemicals that release gases via liquids or solids. These are VOCs.

• Most volatile organic compounds (VOCs) include the following:

• Adhesives and glues

• Building materials and furnishings

• Cleaning supplies

• Correction fluids

• Disinfectants

• Finishes

• Lacquers

• Office equipment such as copiers

• Other craft materials

• Paint strippers

• Paints

• Permanent markers

• Pesticides

• Primers

• Printers

• Varnishes

• The aforementioned list tends to emit volatile organic compounds while the product is in use.

• A report published in the EPA's Total Exposure Assessment Methodology TEAM found that individuals who used products with exorbitant levels of volatile organic compounds were merely exposing themselves to excessive levels of pollutants.

• Some of the adverse effects of volatile organic compound exposure include the following:

• Damage to the liver

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

• Headaches

• Irritated, itchy eyes

• Kidney complications

• Loss of coordination

• Nausea

• Nose irritation

• Throat discomfort

• Based on the research in animals, medical scientists believe that VOCs (volatile organic chemicals) contribute to the cause of cancer.

• Formaldehyde is a well-documented VOC that is measurable indoors.

• Follow the manufacturer's usage directions

• When using a VOC be sure to ventilate the room with ample fresh air

• Buy volatile organic compounds in small quantities. Since, VOCS are unsafe for storage, discard any remaining compounds.

• Keep all volatile organic compounds and other potentially poisonous elements out of children and pets reach.

• Unless, detailed on the directions, never mix any volatile organic compounds with others (i.e., paints, household products, disinfectants).