Chinese drywall still a health hazard

Chinese drywall emits sulfur gases.

Harmful Chinese-made drywall that was widely used in homes and office buildings in North America between 2001 and 2007 could have serious side effects.

Most of the drywall was used in the southern US after damaging hurricanes, when US-made drywall was hard to come by.

Tests have shown that the Chinese-made building material emits sulfur gases, which cause a rotten egg smell and have a corrosive effect on electrical and plumbing components in the buildings.


Sulfur gas emissions linked to health problems

Health concerns include upper respiratory issues, such as coughing, sneezing, bloody noses, sleep apnea and sore throats.

According to the article, it is not known which materials in the Chinese drywall are triggering the release of sulfur gases. Some experts also question whether the Chinese drywall is, in fact, a health hazard.

However, highly toxic compounds have been found in Chinese drywall and prolonged exposure affect the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, eyes, kidneys, liver, and skin. Infants, children and the elderly may be especially vulnerable to the gases and the particles that are released from the drywall.


What to do if you suspect Chinese drywall in your building

1. Remove an outlet cover from the wall (make sure you turn off the power at the breaker panel) and check the bare, neutral ground wire for signs of corrosion. If it is black there could be a problem.
   
2. Inspect the mirrors in the building. Chinese drywall often causes darkened spots in the corners or the middle of the mirror.
   
3. Inspect the copper or the air conditioning system’s air handler. If the coil is copper-colored, green, dark red, or rusty, it is OK. If the copper coil is black, this could indicate a problem.
   
4. Inspect other metals in the home for blackening.
   
5. Check the back of drywall. Affected drywall may read “Made in China” on the back. The coloring when crumbled may be gray, rather than bright white.

If you are concerned about the air quality in your home or business, an air purifier with activated carbon and HEPA filters is the most effective air cleaning solution on the market. Contact an Air Quality Expert at Electrocorp today by calling 1-866-667-0297 or by e-mailing info@electrocorp.net.

Source: http://lubbockonline.com/2011-02-25/chinese-drywall-could-pose-health-risks