NCIDQ Interior Design Professional Exam (IDPX) Practice Exam

Specifying low-emitting interior finishes is a primary action an interior designer can take to significantly enhance indoor air quality. Low-emitting materials are designed to release lower levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful pollutants into the air. By selecting paints, adhesives, sealants, and furnishings that meet stringent emissions standards, designers help create a healthier indoor environment. This choice effectively reduces the accumulation of harmful chemicals, which can lead to health issues such as respiratory problems, allergies, and other complications for occupants.

While other options, such as encouraging the use of air purifiers, increasing the outdoor air intake of HVAC systems, and installing operable windows, can contribute to better indoor air quality, they may not be as direct or effective in preventing pollutants from entering the space in the first place. Each of these alternatives has its advantages, but specifying low-emitting finishes directly addresses the source of indoor air pollutants, making it a fundamental and impactful choice for interior design.