Cleaning Products, a health concern?

There are different factors that determine if you may be harmed by a chemical. These factors include:

*Toxicity of the chemicals in the product: Some chemicals are more hazardous than other chemicals. You should know about products that you use and try to find safer substitutes if they are hazardous. For example, oven cleaners can contain strong acids that can eat away your skin, even if they are diluted in water. In addition, spray bathroom cleaners may contain benzene, which is a known human carcinogen.1 Many cleaners contain numerous VOCs that may produce irritation and other significant health effects.

*Form of the chemical: Many of these chemicals are in aerosol form, which spray a fine mist when used. Aerosols that are in a can are dangerous because the cans are under pressure and may contain a propellant that is flammable such as butane and propane (don't smoke around these chemicals!). Pump sprays are safer, but just like can aerosols, they still break the chemical down into a small mist that may accidentally be breathed in. Mist from aerosols can also get into your eyes and onto your skin, possibly causing a reaction such as irritation. If you have to use aerosols, it is better to use them outside or in a well-ventilated area. For safer forms of chemicals, use liquid, paste or powder cleaners.

* Concentration of the product: Products that you use at home should be formulated for consumer use. Sometimes manufacturers will make a product more concentrated or stronger if it is for industrial use. In these cases, the person using it would have to be trained about the hazards of that chemical and be furnished proper protective equipment to wear while using it. The more concentrated a chemical is, the more dangerous it is. For example, hydrogen peroxide at concentrations greater than 60% can burn the skin, but hydrogen peroxide solution sold in stores for use at home (3%) can be applied to skin to help prevent infection.

*Synergism: This is when the outcome is much greater than the sum of the parts. This is especially true if some chemicals are accidentally mixed. For example, if you accidentally mixed chlorine-based products (like bleach) with ammonia-based products, the result could be deadly. Another reason this combination is so lethal is that these types of chemicals are usually accidentally mixed in an enclosed area such as a bathroom or janitor's closet so the person is overcome by the vapors and passes out. NEVER MIX BLEACH AND AMMONIA PRODUCTS!

(-- Aerias - Better Health Through Indoor Air Quality Awareness)

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