🧪 Creating Policies Around Benefits of Using Low-VOC Adhesives and Sealants in Operations
As awareness grows around indoor air quality, environmental health, and green building codes, low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) adhesives and sealants have become a must-have in many commercial and residential projects.
For distributors, offering these products is just the start. To stand out—and stay compliant—many businesses are now creating internal policies around their use, promotion, and stocking.
Here’s how to create a clear, scalable policy around low-VOC materials that supports both health and sustainability goals—while giving you a competitive advantage.
🧬 Why VOCs Matter
VOCs are chemicals emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids—including many traditional caulks, sealants, and adhesives. High VOC levels contribute to:
Indoor air pollution
Respiratory issues and allergic reactions
Environmental smog
Low-VOC materials improve air quality and help buildings meet:
LEED and WELL Building Standard credits
State/local regulations (especially in CA, NY, MA)
Public health and wellness goals
đź“‹ Step 1: Define Your Low-VOC Product Criteria
Include in your policy:
VOC content thresholds (e.g., <50 g/L)
Required certifications (GreenGuard Gold, SCAQMD Rule 1168, etc.)
Material safety data sheet (MSDS) documentation standards
Use your ERP to tag compliant SKUs and surface them in customer quotes or online filters.
🏷️ Step 2: Work with Vendors to Source and Validate Compliant Products
Request VOC certification documentation and product data sheets for all adhesives/sealants. Ask vendors to:
Confirm regional compliance
Provide MSDS and spec sheets
Offer alternatives to high-VOC legacy products
If possible, stock private-label or co-branded low-VOC lines for added margin and differentiation.
🧠Step 3: Train Sales and Warehouse Teams
Train your staff to:
Understand VOC ratings and what they mean
Identify compliant products in your ERP
Educate contractors and customers on proper handling and use
Create quick-reference guides and fact sheets for counter reps and delivery teams.
📢 Step 4: Communicate the Policy Externally
Add a sustainability or health commitment section to your website that outlines:
Your low-VOC product commitment
VOC content thresholds
How customers can request product certifications
Highlight low-VOC offerings in:
Contractor newsletters
Project case studies
Public RFP responses
🧾 Step 5: Review and Update Annually
Environmental regulations change fast. Review your low-VOC policy each year with:
Updated state and federal guidelines
New product additions or retirements
Changes in vendor status or formulations
Let your customers know you’re proactive—not reactive—when it comes to healthier building.
Final Thoughts
Creating a policy around low-VOC adhesives and sealants isn’t just about compliance—it’s about leadership. It shows your customers, contractors, and partners that your business is serious about healthier spaces, smarter materials, and long-term value.
