In the context of PBRS, what does "VOCs" stand for?

In the context of the Pearl Building Rating System (PBRS), "VOCs" stands for Volatile Organic Compounds. These are a group of organic chemicals that have high vapor pressures at room temperature. Because of this property, they can easily evaporate into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution. VOCs are significant in the context of building design and construction because they can negatively impact indoor air quality and the health of occupants.

The presence of VOCs in building materials, paints, adhesives, and other products can lead to a variety of health issues, such as headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems. As a part of sustainable building practices promoted by PBRS, minimizing the use of materials with high VOC emissions is crucial to creating healthier indoor environments. Thus, understanding and managing VOC levels is a key consideration in the design, construction, and operation of buildings aiming for Pearl Rating, making "Volatile Organic Compounds" the precise and relevant term in this context.