VOC emissions vs content: use the right test
Submittals get bounced for one reason more than most: someone claimed “low VOC” without the test method the spec actually asked for. Interior products live or die on this detail. Here is how to line up emissions and content claims so reviewers say yes, fast.
Why VOC claims matter in interiors
Indoor air quality drives approvals. People spend about 90% of their time inside, and indoor VOC levels can run two to five times higher than outdoors (EPA, 2024) (EPA, 2024). Reviewers care because occupants feel the difference.
Emissions vs. content, in plain English
VOC content tells you how much solvent is in the mixture, usually grams per liter. VOC emissions tell you what actually offgasses after install, measured in a chamber. Think of content as the ingredients label and emissions as the aroma that escapes the bottle once it is opened. Specs often ask for both for interior products.
Follow the method named in the spec
If a spec says CDPH Standard Method, do not send a generic TVOC. CDPH models a classroom or office and evaluates individual compounds at 14 days to health-based limits (CDPH, 2017) (CDPH, 2017). Furniture often references ANSI/BIFMA M7.1 for emissions. Europe commonly uses EN 16516, which evaluates a 28 day chamber result to defined compound limits (CEN, 2017). Adhesives and sealants frequently require VOC content by SCAQMD Rule 1168 or equivalent. Paints and coatings often point to EPA Method 24 or CARB SCM for content.
Numbers reviewers recognize
Formaldehyde, a sentinel compound, carries a chronic indoor air guideline of 9 µg/m³ in California’s health benchmarks, which is why CDPH checks it tightly (OEHHA, 2024) (OEHHA, 2024). Those numeric anchors guide acceptance, not a marketing line like “ultra low”.
Where this lands in your EPD and HPD world
EPDs center on embodied impacts. Many programs allow an optional line stating the product meets a named VOC emissions method, which smooths submittals even if it does not affect GWP. HPDs document content down to the chemical level and can reference the same methods for emissions notes. Together they let a reviewer check boxes for climate and air quality in one pass.
Interior categories that almost always need VOC proof
Flooring, ceiling panels, wall panels, insulation, interior paints and coatings, adhesives and sealants, engineered wood, furniture. If it sits inside for years, assume emissions data will be requested. If it is applied wet, assume content limits will be checked.
Avoid the “zero VOC” trap
Zero VOC in paint often excludes tints or exempts certain solvents by regulation, so the can may say zero while the tinted color does not. Always state what list you used and the method. Better: “Complies with CDPH Standard Method at 14 days” or “Meets SCAQMD Rule 1168 for [category]”. That language survives spec scrutiny.
A tight, reviewer-friendly workflow
- Read the spec and copy the exact test names and dates.
- Map your product to the right category and chamber size before booking the lab.
- Collect SDS, formulations, and dye or tint ratios so the lab tests worst case.
- Put the method, date, and lab report number on every submittal sheet. It is boring and it definately prevents rework.
Timelines and re-testing
Most emissions certificates are based on a one-time chamber run plus periodic surveillance that varies by program. If your formula, plant, or supplier changes, plan to re-test. Content claims change with formulation too. Budget lab time alongside your EPD or HPD timeline so approvals arrive together.
Bottom line for spec wins
Use the test the spec names. Say which method you used. Pair emissions proof with content proof for interior products so reviewers can approve on the spot. Teams that lock these basics in see fewer redlines and faster yeses, which shortens the distance between submittal and sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between VOC content and VOC emissions for interior products?
VOC content measures the amount of solvents in a product, typically in grams per liter, before installation. VOC emissions measure what offgasses from the installed product in a chamber test over time, reported against health-based limits such as those used in CDPH.
Which VOC emissions test methods are most commonly requested in North America?
CDPH Standard Method for schools and offices, ANSI/BIFMA M7.1 for furniture, and for content limits SCAQMD Rule 1168 for adhesives and sealants, plus EPA Method 24 or CARB SCM for coatings. Europe commonly uses EN 16516 for emissions.
Do EPDs include VOC results?
EPDs primarily report embodied environmental impacts. Many program operators allow an optional statement that a product meets a named VOC emissions method; this can streamline submittals even though it does not change the EPD’s impact values.
How do I phrase claims to avoid rejections?
Use exact method language. For example: “Complies with CDPH Standard Method v1.2 at 14 days” or “Meets SCAQMD Rule 1168 for [adhesive category].” Avoid vague claims like “low VOC” without a method.
About the Author
With a passion for sustainability and a love for complex data, Toby helps manufacturers efficiently collect data from across their organization and get their EPDs done right. He’s especially interested in how AI can support human expertise, helping R&D and factory teams work faster, smarter, and with less friction.
