“A recent study by Matt and colleagues at San Diego State University and the Center for Tobacco and the Environment establishes the first-ever quantitative benchmarks for measuring thirdhand smoke contamination in indoor spaces. By analyzing over 3,000 measurements from more than 100 environments worldwide, researchers defined four hazard levels based on nicotine residue left on surfaces, ranging from low to severe. This research highlights that thirdhand smoke is a persistent chemical hazard, not just an odor, that can linger in homes for years and disproportionately affect vulnerable communities like young children and low-income households. With California’s AB 455 already requiring thirdhand smoke disclosure in real estate transactions earlier this year, these benchmarks give homeowners, landlords, remediation professionals, and policymakers a practical tool to finally identify, measure, and address risks of toxic thirdhand smoke contamination indoors.”
Read the full study here
Watch the video here
