Q: What are some of the products I should be
aware of?
A: Solvents, paints, paint strippers, wood
preservatives, aerosol sprays, moth repellents, air fresheners, stored
fuels, automotive products, hobby supplies, pesticides and some cleaners
and disinfectants.
Q: What are the particular ingredients in
these products that I should be concerned about?
A: The
products to watch for are those containing volatile organic compounds,
which are organic solvents that easily evaporate into the air. Some may be
flammable.
Following are some of the compounds listed on product
labels: petroleum distillates, mineral spirits, chlorinated solvents,
carbon tetrachloride, methylene chloride, trichloroethane, toluene and
formaldehyde. Other household product ingredients can also be a hazard if
they are used improperly.
Q: What are some of the health effects?
A: Exposure to some household products may cause eye, nose and throat irritation, nausea, dizziness, loss of coordination or headaches. Some products have also been associated with liver, kidney or central nervous system damage and cancer.
Q: What are some ways I can minimize
potential health problems?
A: First, read the labels of
products you are considering buying. Note the product's ingredients and
beware of any warnings of its use. Always use household products only for
their intended purpose and according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Use the product in a well-ventilated area. Choose products that are
packaged to reduce the chance of spills, leaks and child tampering. Also,
keep household products in their original containers so that safety
information and directions for use are always with the product.
Q: Are there ways I can reduce my need for
these products?
A: Yes, by practicing preventative
maintenance. Quickly attend to spills and stains. Remove food wastes
promptly. Also, control excess moisture (such as standing water from air
conditioner drains or refrigerator drip pans) and fix leaks, drips and
seepage problems.
You might consider using "natural" or "alternative"
products, but these products also have pollution potential if not used
correctly. Products may be labeled "environmentally safe," but
any product that evaporates into the air has the potential to be an indoor
air pollutant, depending on the quantity used, the method of use, the
product's toxicity and the sensitivity of the user.