Manufacturers use synthetic chemicals when creating products for the building industry. Studies from Healthy Building Network note that chemicals of concern added to upholstery and architectural products provide no health benefits; are associated with adverse endocrine, thyroid and reproductive changes; persist in the environment; add cost; and expose patients and associates to unnecessary chemicals.
https://healthybuilding.net/content/research-and-reports
Ascension collaborates with other health systems, design firms and manufacturers leading the market to develop healthier alternatives. Ascension Planning, Design & Construction created standards to minimize chemicals of concern in furnishings and interior finish materials. Focus areas in FY17 were to minimize the use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), flame retardants, fluorinated stain treatments, formaldehyde and antimicrobials. Vinyl is prevalent in healthcare flooring products due to its durability, low cost and ease of maintenance. The use of vinyl can be partly mitigated by selecting no-wax flooring products.