This page covers everything you need to know about the environmental exposure monitoring program.
Why am I being asked to participate?
One of the goals of the COMPASS research study is to identify harmful environmental exposures that can lead to developing cancer and other diseases.
Who is eligible and is participation required?
Only participants in the COMPASS research study are eligible and having air pollution monitoring devices installed is optional.
How many devices will be installed, for how long and where?
You can have up to 4 monitors installed inside/outside your home:
- Edimax EdiGreen Air Quality Monitor for 2 to 4 weeks
- Blueair Aware Air Quality Monitor for 2 to 4 weeks
- Exhale Air Sample Collection Device for 5 to 6 days
- RadonEye Home Radon Detector for 5 to 6 days
How do the devices work?
All 4 devices will require a standard power outlet. The Blueair Aware and the Edimax devices require a WiFi connection to collect and send the information detected. The Exhale device is sent to a certified lab where the air samples are collected and tested.
What if I don’t have WiFi?
We can install a wireless router to connect the Blueair Aware and the Edimax devices if you don’t have WiFi.
What are airborne particles and volatile organic compounds (VOC)?
Airborne particles are measured as fine particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers (or PM2.5 for short). Common sources of PM2.5 are dust, smokestacks, cleaning and beauty products, cooking and smoking. VOC are numerous chemicals released as gases from certain solids or liquids. Common sources include paints, furniture, cleaning products, air fresheners, glue, perfume, repellents, etc.
What is radon?
Radon is a radioactive gas found in homes that you cannot see, smell or taste but can be a health problem if radon levels are 4 picocuries per liter (pCi/L) or higher.
What do air pollution monitors cost?
There are no costs to you as a COMPASS participant. We will pay you $25 for installing the devices after we pick up the devices and complete a survey together.
