There are reports of individuals who, after exposure to new carpet fumes, have developed lifelong super-sensitivities to other types of scents (colognes, building products etc.). Dave Ryan, of the EPA's Indoor Air Department, has stated that, while there may be occasional problems for certain people, there is no significant risk to occupants, generally, from such carpet exposure.

We believe that carpet is a source of indoor air
pollution, but not a major source [of human risk] . . .

It is accepted that most toxic reactions come from a compound called, "4-Phenylcyclohexene" (4-PC). This compound, to one degree or another, is present in nearly all carpet produced in the United States. Some scientists believe that certain carpet batches inadvertently contain a higher dose of 4-PC than others, as laboratory experiments showed mice developing serious reactions to inhalation from different batches of carpet. The EPA, in conjunction with a number of carpet manufacturers, agreed to begin testing for dose exposure limits for 4-PC; however, this testing is voluntary.

Our advice is that, after new carpet installation, try to air out the building for an extensive period of time prior to occupancy. We do not believe it makes sense to "cook out" a building, i.e. turn the heat up to cause super-rapid volitization and diffusion of the toxic fumes. This could simply increase the amount of the chemical introduced to other building materials, such as wood, drywall etc., and extend the period of toxic emissions.

At the present time, there is no easy way to detect thresholds of 4-PC. If a major carpet purchase is planned, you can at least determine from the manufacturers if they have tested the batch for 4-PC.

Serious consideration should also be taken for the use of carpets as they may relate to nesting sites for mold and dust mites. It is extremely hard to clean a carpet sufficiently to preclude some level of microbial growth. Wet carpet and consequent mold/fungus growth may be one of the leading causes of indoor air quality problems.