VOC Testing Service

A persistent chemical smell almost always means elevated VOC concentrations. The most common causes are recently fitted materials (paint, flooring, furniture, adhesives) off-gassing, cleaning and disinfectant products, or inadequate ventilation allowing VOCs to accumulate. Testing identifies the specific compounds present and their likely source, rather than leaving you to guess. 

We can use a variety of different sampling techniques depending on your requirements, such as active sampling, passive sampling, or long-term air quality monitoring — all of which are useful in different circumstances.

Samples are sent to an accredited lab for professional analysis where requested. Accurate individual VOC measurements will then be included in a post-VOC assessment report.

A TVOC monitor gives a useful, real-time indication that VOC levels are elevated, but it can't tell you which specific compounds are present — it blends everything into one number. A laboratory VOC test identifies and quantifies each compound individually, which is what's needed to benchmark against a specific exposure limit or diagnose a source. We often recommend both: a monitor for ongoing tracking, a lab test for diagnosis. 

Yes. Common short-term symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, particularly during or shortly after activities that release higher concentrations. Some individual VOCs, such as benzene, are recognised carcinogens with long-term exposure risks, which is why they carry specific legal exposure limits. If staff or occupants report symptoms that improve away from the building, it's worth investigating promptly. 

ARM Environments are well-versed in testing and monitoring pollutants such as:

• Formaldehyde

• Styrene

• Xylene

• Benzaldehyde

• Acetone

• BTEX compounds

• Toluene

• Ethylbenzene

• Alcohols

• Industrial solvents

• Cleaning chemical emissions

If you're worried about a certain pollutant in your space or you're looking to confirm whether your space is healthy to live or work in, we can help you identify indoor pollutants, their sources, and how best to remediate any problems.

Yes, ARM Environments are highly experienced in testing refurbished spaces and commercial offices for TVOCs.

As part of a BREEAM assessment, we conducted VOC surveys for a client in central London who were in the middle of a fit-out, resulting in high TVOC measurements.