How is secondhand smoke exposure measured?

Secondhand smoke exposure can be measured. This is done by testing indoor air for chemicals found in tobacco smoke, such as nicotine. Your healthcare provider can also test your own level of exposure. This is done by testing the level of cotinine in your blood, saliva, or urine.

How far does secondhand smoke travel?

Fact: Secondhand smoke can stay in the air for several hours and travel up to 20 feet. Fact: Pets that get exposed to secondhand smoke have a higher risk of some cancers and respiratory problems.

Where does secondhand smoke exposure typically occur?

Exposure to secondhand smoke, even for a short time, can be harmful to both children and adults. Most people are exposed to secondhand smoke in their homes or the places they work. People may also be exposed to secondhand smoke in public places like bars, restaurants, and casinos, as well as in vehicles.

How is smoke measured?

Smoke measurements are made with a photometer system shining vertically through the tunnel near the exhaust end. The percentage of light absorbed by the smoke in the exhaust gases is recorded against time. The area under the curve obtained is taken as a measure of the total quantity of smoke produced.

Is there a machine that detects cigarette smoke?

Introduction. The Puff Alert cigarette smoke detector & alarms is a high-sensitivity detector based on photoelectric technology, which senses cigarette, cigar and pipe tobacco smoke at an early stage and warns by means of a buzzer and a red light-emitting diode.

How long does third hand smoke last in a house?

Thirdhand smoke residue builds up over time on most surfaces it touches. It can remain for weeks, months or even years. “It resists normal cleaning methods and you can’t air it out of rooms or cars with fans or vacuums,” Dr. Choi says.

Does washing clothes remove third hand smoke?

To remove the residue, hard surfaces, fabrics and upholstery need to be regularly cleaned or laundered. Thirdhand smoke can’t be eliminated by airing out rooms, opening windows, using fans or air conditioners, or confining smoking to only certain areas of a home.

What does cigarette smoke do to a house?

When people smoke in their homes, the chemicals in tobacco smoke build up over time leaving a toxic thirdhand smoke residue on carpets, furniture, walls, doors, and ceilings. This toxic residue lingers long after the smoke clears, and even after smokers moved out.