This research measured the concentrations of formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including benzene, toluene, and xylene, in the main entrance lobby and an exhibit hall of a museum under construction in Tianjin, China. The results reveal that significant VOC contamination existed in the museum during the period of building construction and finishing. Most significantly, toluene was found in the museum lobby. The contaminant concentrations measured impose risks on the health of construction workers, who usually experience increased respiration during laborious work. The research suggested that the main sources of VOC contaminants were construction materials and sprayed glass cleaning agents. It was found that ventilation is an effective method to reduce VOC concentration in the building. To protect construction workers from health risks, it is recommended that a more rigorous building contamination regulation be enacted, leveraging the time-cumulative contamination index (TCCI) to evaluate contamination status and manage working hours.

Units: SI