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Look for VOC content. VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, are substances found to cause indoor and outdoor air pollution by the EPA. VOC content is listed in grams per liter ranging from 5 to 200--the lower the VOC content, the lower the odor and toxicity of the product during and after application. Flat paints will tend to have a lower VOC level. The maximum acceptable VOC level for flat paints is 50 interior (100 exterior); for gloss paints, it is 150 interior (200 exterior). Also look for solids content. The higher the percentage of solids, or pigments, in a paint, the fewer VOCs are present. These solids can range in concentration from 25% to 45% by volume, and should be specified on the label. Be aware that products that have an EPA, OSHA, or DOT registration number contain toxic ingredients which must be monitored.
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