Healthy Home Tour

Antifreeze

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
ETHYLENE GLYCOL	Poisons animals, who are attracted to the sweet smell; can cause damage to internal organs through skin absorption; inhalation can cause dizziness

Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which is poisonous when ingested. Ingestion may result in depression followed by respiratory and cardiac failure, kidney damage and brain damage. Manufacturers of antifreeze are required to clearly post dangers on the label and provide a childproof cap, which minimizes the danger of accidental ingestion by children. However, antifreeze when improperly disposed of can endanger the health of pets. Each year, thousands of dogs and cats are poisoned by discarded or leaking antifreeze. The sweet taste of antifreeze attracts pets who lap up puddles of antifreeze they find. To prevent this danger, wash down or absorb puddles of antifreeze with an absorbent material such as kitty litter and dispose of the absorbent in the trash.

Use: Follow label directions. Never heat antifreeze. This would release toxic fumes.

Storage: Store away from heat and in a well-ventilated area. Keep away from children and pets.

Disposal: The major components of antifreeze can be broken down by organisms in a sewage treatment plant. If your home is connected to a sanitary or municipal sewer system, household quantities of antifreeze can be flushed down the drain with plenty of water. The solution is not so easy for those homes with a septic tank because antifreeze can overwhelm the organisms in your septic system, causing damage to the system. If your wastewater goes into a septic tank, very small amounts over a period of time can be flushed with plenty of water. Better yet, ask a friend, relative, or neighbor who is hooked up to the sanitary sewer system to use their drain to dispose of your household quantity of used antifreeze. Do not pour antifreeze into storm sewer openings, sinkholes, or abandoned wells where they will directly pollute the water.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
GLYCOLS	Some compounds cause kidney damage

Automatic transmission fluid, used to pull the clutch and lubricate automobile transmissions, is mainly composed of mineral oil. Automatic transmission fluid is flammable at high temperatures and relatively nontoxic unless swallowed and aspirated (sucked into lungs during swallowing or vomiting).

Used automatic transmission oil contains environmentally toxic heavy metals including lead. The heavy metal in used fluid can cause severe nervous system damage to wildlife and other animals if disposed of improperly.

Use: When draining fluid wear gloves and avoid skin contact.

Storage: Store used transmission fluid in a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Clearly mark what is in the container and store on a high shelf out of the reach of children and pets.

Disposal: If not contaminated with other products, used and unused automatic transmission fluid may be accepted for recycling at local service stations that also accept used motor oil or at the highway transportation department. Ask first before dumping the used fluid into an oil collection tank because some centers may not accept it. Carry the transmission fluid in a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid or, if the fluid is unused, in its original container.

Batteries - Dry Cell

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
NICKEL	Causes dermatitis, sensitizer
CADMIUM	Damages kidneys and lungs
MERCURY	Toxic mercury vapor can damage brain and nervous system

Dry cell and disc or button batteries are used in flash lights, radios, hearing aids, watches, cameras, calculators, toys, and other items in the home. These batteries may contain zinc, lead, alkalines, mercury, nickel, cadmium, silver, and electrolytes. If batteries leak or explode the chemical substances contained in these batteries can cause internal and external burns and irritation. Batteries which explode can spew their contents on unsuspecting victims. There are two primary reasons that batteries explode: if an attempt is made to recharge nonrechargeable batteries, gases may build up and generate enough pressure to explode the battery; and batteries which are thrown into a fire, burned in a barrel, or otherwise incinerated can explode. Batteries which are chewed on or punctured can also leak.

Discarding batteries poses a clear environmental danger. Batteries contain heavy metals, such as silver, nickel, cadmium, lead, mercury, lithium, manganese, and zinc, which can accumulate and concentrate in waterlife, wildlife, and humans. An example of the danger posed by batteries is that one mercury battery contained in six tons of garbage exceeds the allowable limit for mercury in solid waste as established by the federal government.

Use: Keep batteries away from children. Do not, under any circumstances, put disc batteries into your mouth. They are slippery and easily swallowed.

Storage: Keep away from flames and out of the reach of children.

Disposal: Mercury-oxide and silver-oxide button batteries are often collected by jewelers, pharmacies, and hearing aid stores who sell them to companies that reclaim the metals. Many communities across the United States are separating batteries from their waste stream and contracting with companies to provide recycling, neutralization, or proper disposal. Alkaline, carbon-zinc, and lithium batteries do not have a ready market available at present. Some recycling companies have recently started accepting nickel-cadmium batteries and are willing to provide collection containers and pay for bulk transportation to the processor and recycling facilities.

Batteries - Wet Cell

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
SULFURIC ACID	Corrosive, causes severe skin burns, and can cause blindness
LEAD	Causes nerve and kidney damage, suspected carcinogen

Automobile, boats, and tractor batteries are wet cell batteries which contain lead and a solution of sulfuric acid. When activated, the electrolyte solution in the battery produces explosive gases which are easily ignited. Manufacturers of batteries containing sulfuric acid must use labels which warn consumers of the dangers from battery acid and accumulated gases. Sulfuric acid is extremely caustic. Fumes are strongly irritating, and contact can cause burning and charring of the skin; it is exceedingly dangerous to eyes. Lead is poisonous in all forms and accumulates in our bodies and in the environment.

Use: Wear protective gloves. Do not get battery acid on you or your clothing. If you do, wash your hands or body immediately and put baking soda on your clothes where the battery acid splashed. Do not attempt to neutralize acids on the skin or when swallowed. Flushing with or drinking sodium bicarbonate creates thermal heat from the acid base reaction, causing further injury. Do not stand by an uncapped battery while the motor is running; it can splash on you. After touching a battery, wash hands thoroughly before touching eyes or mouth. Keep all sources of flames, including cigarettes, away from batteries.

Storage: Store away from children, especially curious children who might want to break open the battery to see what is inside. Keep away from all sources of sparks, including flames. Store under a tarp or in a covered area.

Disposal: Recycle used batteries! Improper disposal of batteries presents an environmental hazard. It is important and easy to dispose of batteries by recycling them and it is usually possible to trade in old batteries where you purchase new ones. To locate the recycler nearest to you, look up "Batteries" in the Yellow Pages of the phone book. Depending upon the market place, you may get a small amount of money for your recycled battery, but the fact that you do not have to pay to dispose of this highly hazardous waste makes it a bargain to recycle batteries.

Brake Fluid

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
GLYCOLS	Some compounds cause kidney damage

Carburetor Cleaner

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
CRESOL	Corrosive to tissue, damages, liver, kidneys, lungs, pancreas and spleen
METHYLENE CHLORIDE	A suspected carcinogen; vapors cause carbon monoxide accumulation in blood
SODIUM CHROMATE	Causes contact dermatitis

Engine Degreaser

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
CHLORINATED SOLVENTS	Central nervous system depressants, irritants, vary in toxicity

Gasoline

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
TETRAETHYL LEAD	Nerve toxin, small amounts are fatal

Gasoline, a petroleum distillate product combined with various additives, is flammable and highly toxic. Leaded gasoline contains tetraethyl lead, a highly toxic metal compound. Unleaded gasoline contains high octane components such as benzene (a known human carcinogen), ethylene dichloride (a known animal carcinogen), and methanol (a highly toxic compound).

Gasoline can be harmful to your health through skin contact, skin absorption, inhalation, or ingestion. The first symptoms of poisoning include flushing, slurred speech, staggering, and confusion. Overexposure may result in coma and death. Antioxidants added to keep gasoline from decomposing and forming resins can cause burns to skin and eyes.

Use: Never smoke around gasoline. Keep the lid on the can when not in use. Never siphon gasoline using the mouth because chemical pneumonia may result.

Do not:

use leaded gasoline for camp fuel
use gasoline to start brush fires or wood stoves
use any type of gasoline to clean paint or grease from your body (use soap or detergent and water or massage with a few drops of baby oil, butter or margarine, wipe dry, and wash with soap and water).

When handling gasoline wear NBR rubber, nitrile, or polyvinyl chloride gloves and thoroughly wash your hands before eating or smoking. Avoid breathing vapors.

Storage: Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store in an approved safety container in a garage or outbuilding with good ventilation. If you have a water heater, furnace, or other source of ignition in your garage, it may not be a safe place to store your gasoline. Keep away from heat, flame, and sources of ignition. Do not completely fill the container - gasoline needs room to expand. While it is a good idea to carry an emply gasoline can in the car, do not keep the can filled with gasoline; the gasoline could explode upon impact.

Disposal: Generally, disposal of gasoline is no problem because it will be used up in an engine. However, dirty or contaminated gasoline cannot be burned in engines and must be saved for disposal by a licensed hazardous waste contractor or through a professional household hazardous waste collection program. For this reason, and health reasons, do not use gasoline as a cleaner or solvent. Never mix gasoline with waste oil. This would produce a highly flammable mixture.

Motor Oil

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
HEAVY METALS	Cause nerve and kidney damage, suspected carcinogen
HYDROCARBONS	Some forms are carcinogenic

Motor oil is a petroleum distillate product composed of 75% mineral oil, 20% oxidation inhibitors and detergents, and 5% pour depressants and viscosity improvers. Used or waste motor oil is often contaminated with lead outside the United States (from gasoline), magnesium, copper, zinc, and other heavy metals which are picked up from the engine.

Used motor oil can present a threat to health through skin contact, skin absorption, inhalation, or ingestion. Many of the problems associated with used motor oil are due to exposure to the heavy metals. These health problems are cumulative, so with each exposure to used motor oil the amount of heavy metals added to the body's system increases.

Used motor oil poses a very serious threat to the environment when disposed of improperly. Just one gallon of motor oil can pollute one million gallons of water and can form an oil slick nearly 8 acres in size!

Use: Wear protective gloves.

Storage: Store away from children and sources of ignition. Place used motor oil in a labeled container with a tight-fitting lid (a plastic milk jug with a tight-fitting cap works well).

Disposal: Please follow these directions to avoid harming our environment and groundwater:

Recycle used motor oil! Take used motor oil to a used motor oil collection center.
Do not put used motor oil in the trash. Throwing it away is harmful to the environment and not a good use of this valuable resource.
Do not pour used motor oil on the ground or down storm sewers, spray it on roads, or allow your car to leak oil.
Do not burn used motor oil. When used motor oil is burned (for example, when dumped on a brush pile) the heavy metals quickly adsorb onto surrounding soil particles and contaminate the ground. In addition, when used motor oil is burned, heavy metals and other contaminants can be released into the air, which may cause serious health and environmental problems.

Petroleum

Petroleum, a thick natural oil obtained from beneath the earth, consists of various hydrocarbons, a class of chemicals containing hydrogens and carbons. Petroleum distillates, also called hydrocarbons or petrochemicals, refer to a broad range of compounds which are extracted by distillation during the refining of crude oil. During the fractional distillation of petroleum, crude oil is heated to allow various compounds to turn from liquid into gas and then captured as they rise, cool, and condense. Lighter, more volatile compounds rise higher before they condense and are collected on distillation trays. Heavier, less volatile compounds such as diesel fuel and oil are collected on lower distillation trays. Waxes and asphalts are collected from the bottom after the other products have volatilized.

Petroleum distillates are found in a wide variety of consumer-products including lip gloss, liquid gas, fertilizer, furniture polish, pesticides, plastics, paint thinners, solvents, motor oil, fuels and hundreds of other products. Petroleum distillates listed commonly on labels of general household products are those that distill off around naphthas. Petroleum jelly, a petroleum distillate product, is generally regarded as nontoxic.

Petroleum distillates contain both aromatic hydrocarbons (carbon rings) and aliphatic hydrocarbons (straight carbon chains). The chemical structure of the hydrocarbon largely defines the nature and behavior of these compounds. Aromatic hydrocarbons are the most toxic compounds found in petroleum products. These aromatic compounds are found in all crude oils and most petroleum products. Many aromatic hydrocarbons have a pleasant odor and include such substances as naphthalene, xylene, toluene, and benzene. Aliphatic hydrocarbons are flammable and may be explosively flammable. Aliphatic hydrocarbons include methane, propane, and kerosene.

Aliphatics and aromatics pose a special health risk if ingested and vomited. When swallowed, the lighter, more volatile distillate products can be sucked into the lungs interfering with the lung's functions and chemical pneumonia may result. Aspiration of fluid into the lungs can occur both during swallowing and vomiting of the product. Upon skin contact, petroleum distillates can produce local skin irritation and sensitivity to light in some individuals. Environmentally, many of the petroleum distillate products add to smog and water pollution due to improper disposal or during their manufacture and use.

Products which contain petroleum distillates should be used carefully. Wear gloves to avoid skin contact and avoid breathing vapors of volatile compounds. Always keep petroleum distillate products out of reach of children. Do not mix different petroleum distillate products. Refer to the specific petroleum distillate product listed in this guide for safe use, storage, and disposal information.

Windshield Wiper Solution

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
METHANOL	Damages the nervous system, liver, kidneys, inhalation can lead to lung disease, ingestion can cause blindness
ETHYLENE GLYCOL	Poisons animals who are attracted to the sweet smell; can cause damage to internal organs through skin absorption; inhalation can cause dizziness
ISOPROPANOL	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death

Windshield wiper solution contains methanol (37%-100%), detergent, and water. Due to its hazardous nature, windshield wiper solution is required to have a child-proof safety cap. The most toxic windshield wiper solutions contain 100% methanol. For health and environmental effects associated with this products please refer to methanol.

Use: Avoid skin contact and inhalation. Wear gloves when adding windshield wiper fluid to your car.

Storage: Store away from children and pets. Make sure safety cap is on securely.

Disposal: If the windshield wiper solvent contains methanol the product should be disposed of by a licensed hazardous waste handler or through a household hazardous waste collection. To avoid this disposal dilemma, it is best to get rid of this product by using it up as intended. To dispose of unwanted fluid that does not contain methanol, small quantities can be flushed down the drain with plenty of water if your drain is hooked up to a sanitary sewer system. If you use a septic tank or lagoon, ask a friend, relative, or neighbor to use their drain to dispose of your unwanted windshield wiper solvent. Disposal of this product down a drain connected to the septic system can overwhelm the microorganisms and result in damage to the system.

Arts & Crafts

The "Labeling of Hazardous Art Materials Act" of 1988 required that any art and craft materials that present a chronic hazard bear a WARNING statement of the hazard, and an additional warning that it is inappropriate for use by children. The Law directed the Consumer Product Safety Commission to set guidelines determining whether arts and crafts present chronic long-term hazards to both adults and children. All arts and crafts materials must identify the hazardous ingredients, provide guidelines for safe use, identify that the product complies with Federal law, and provide a telephone number for the consumer to request additional information. This information must appear on the label, the packaging, or the display for the product. Although this law has been in effect for nearly ten years, there are still products on the market, especially imported art products, which are not in compliance.

Permanent felt-tip markers, rubber cement, spray fixatives, powdered clay, and instant papier-mache are standard arts and crafts supplies found in many homes. All of these materials contain chemicals that are hazardous if inhaled, absorbed, or swallowed. Children are especially prone to mishandling, chewing, sucking, inhaling, or swallowing art materials and decorating their hands and faces with them.

The Arts & Crafts Materials Institute has successfully sponsored a certification program, certifying that products are nontoxic and meet quality and performance standards. Products in their certification program which have earned the CP (certified product) or AP (approved product) seal include crayons, water colors, tempera colors, finger paints, chalks, modeling materials, block printing inks and media, drawing inks and media, etching inks and media, screen printing inks and media, school pastes and adhesives, acrylic and oil paints and media, marking crayons, and other art materials. Products bearing the AP seal are nontoxic even if ingested. Those bearing the CP seal are nontoxic even if ingested and meet or exceed specific quality standards of material, workmanship, working qualities, and color. Products without these seals but which state they are "nontoxic" indicate only that the product is not acutely toxic and may still make a person sick if swallowed.

An excellent source on toxic arts and crafts information is a data sheet entitled "Children's Art Supplies Can Be Toxic," published by the Center for Occupational Hazards. To obtain a copy, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your request to 5 Beekman Street, New York, NY 10038.

Use: Carefully read labels to identify products which are certified and approved by the Arts and Crafts Materials Institute. A list of these products can be obtained from the Institute, free of charge, by sending a self addressed, stamped envelope and request to 715 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116.

Refrain from eating or drinking while using these products and wash your hands thoroughly when finished.

Alternatives: In order to choose safe art supplies to keep at home, for school projects, or just for fun, consider the following tips:

Avoid	Substitute
... powdered tempera paints, pastels, chalks, or dry markers that create dust	... natural dyes, such as dyes made from vegetables, onions skins, tea, flowers, and other food dyes
... instant paper-mache (may contain asbestos fibers and lead from pigments in colored printing inks)	... paper-mache made from black-and-white newspaper and library paste, white paste, or flour and water paste
... aerosol sprays	... brushes and water-based paints in splatter techniques
... oil-based paints, turpentine, benzene, toluene, and rubber cement and its thinner	... water-based paints, glues, inks, etc.

Glues & Adhesives

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
NAPHTHALENE	Damages liver, prolonged vapor exposure has led to cataract formation
PHENOL	Central nervous system depressant, severely affects circulatory system, corrosive to skin; suspected carcinogen
ETHANOL	Ingestion causes intoxication; additives are poisonous
VINYL CHLORIDE	Causes liver dysfunction, suspected carcinogen
FORMALDEHYDE	Suspected carcinogen and a strong irritant to the eyes, throat, skin and lungs
ACRYLONITRILE	Damages liver and blood, can cause shock

Glues, rubber cement, epoxy, and other adhesives contain a solvent which, when applied, evaporates out leaving the solid adhesive portion behind. Rubber cement, epoxy, instant glues, model glues, and plastic adhesives contains five dangerous solvents. Many adhesives are extremely flammable. Some adhesives are skin and lung irritants and allergy-sensitizers while others can cause burns to skin and eyes. Many of the solvents used in adhesives and glues have narcotic, possibly fatal, effects when inhaled in high concentrations. Inhalation of fumes from cured epoxy resins may result in coughing and bronchial spasms for several days.

Instant glues contain small amounts of solvent which rapidly dissolve. This product is considered to be of low toxicity, but there are other concerns to be noted. Instant glues bond so rapidly and strongly that the least sloppiness can result in an undesirable and sometimes dangerous situation. A drop of glue on the finger followed by a touch to the eye can end with a semi-permanent finger in the eye (which will release in less than 24 hours). The safest glues on the market are white glue, library paste, yellow wood glue, and glue sticks. White glue effectively bonds most porous and semi-porous materials such as paper, cloth, wood, and pottery. White glue can also be used for big jobs such as laying hardwood floors.

Use: Use white glue, glue sticks, or yellow glue when ever possible. Never use toxic adhesives on laminated cutting boards, bowls, or a product which contacts food. Carefully read the label. Wear protective gloves with adhesives and cements. If the glue contains solvents, use only in a well ventilated area with plenty of fresh air. Avoid wearing soft contacts, which may absorb solvent vapors. If the adhesive is flammable be certain to extinguish sources of ignition (such as pilot lights) if you will be using a large quantity of the solvent in a room where a source of flame is located. Keep the lid tightly closed when the glue is not in use.

Storage: Store away from children and sources of flame. Make sure cap or lid is tightly secured.

Disposal: The best way to avoid a waste disposal problem is to use it up as intended. If the adhesive or glue is anything other than instant, white, or yellow glue, it is recommended that this product be disposed of by a licensed hazardous waste handler or saved for a house hold hazardous waste collection. However, if the glue or adhesive has hardened, it may be thrown in the trash destined for the landfill.

Mothballs

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
PARADICHLOROBENZENE	Vapor irritates skin, eyes and respiratory tract; large doses can cause injury to liver; suspected carcinogen
NAPHTHALENE	Damages liver, prolonged vapor exposure has led to cataract formation

Mothballs are a distinctive smelling, volatile solid used to repel moths. Mothballs, which are classified as a pesticide, may look like candy to a child. They are poisonous when eaten and seizures can develop in less than one hour. Mothballs contain 100% of either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Both of these ingredients can produce harmful effects when they enter your system through inhalation. Irritation to nose, throat, and lungs, headache, confusion, excitement or depression, and liver and kidney damage can result from exposure to mothball vapors over a long period of time.

Mothballs containing naphthalene are of special concern because naphthalene can promote a breakdown of red blood cells resulting in hemolytic anemia. Hemolytic anemia in mild form may cause only fatigue. In more severe cases, it can cause acute kidney failure. Young children are at particular risk. Poisonings have been reported following dressing infants in clothing that was stored with naphthalene mothballs, suggesting that absorption of naphthalene may occur through the skin.

The warning label on mothball products reads "avoid prolonged breathing of vapors." This label is at odds with the normal use of mothballs. By the very nature of their ingredients, mothballs give off strong odors (vapors which you can smell). These vapors tend to fill the entire home, making it nearly impossible to avoid prolonged breathing of vapors unless you live outdoors. The situation is complicated further when mothballs are placed in closets or rooms with poor ventilation, where the vapors build to high concentrations. Vapors are absorbed by clothes, blankets, and sheets resulting in direct exposure when you are around these items.

Use: Avoid these products. If you do use mothballs, use them sparingly. Mothballs which contain paradichlorobenzene may be safer, if only because they do not promote hemolytic anemia.

Storage: Store away from children and pets in a well ventilated area. Mothballs, if stored indoors, should be tightly wrapped in two plastic bags.

Disposal: Mothballs should be taken to a licensed hazardous waste handler or saved for a professional household hazardous waste collection program.

Paint

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
ORGANIC SOLVENT	Irritating to eyes and skin, can cause cracking of skin and depression of nervous system

The typical paint mixture is 5-25% pigment and 75-95% solvent. The type of pigment and solvent used largely defines the toxicity of the paint. Paints may become hazardous if fumes are inhaled or if paint is ingested. Another hazard associated with some paints is flammability. The label should state whether or not the paint you are using is flammable.

With the exception of latex paint, which has water as a solvent, solvents commonly used in paints include mineral spirits (naphtha), toluene, xylene, and other petroleum distillate solvents. These solvents can irritate your eyes, skin, and lungs. Inhaling paint fumes can result in headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Toxic fumes can accumulate in closed spaces and areas with poor ventilation. Acute and chronic symptoms include muscle weakness, liver and kidney damage, and respiratory problems. Due to the high solvent content of oil-based paints and varnishes, women should avoid using these products while pregnant.

Indoor water-soluble latex paints may be of low toxicity unless ingested in large quantities. Exterior latex paint may contain a mercury pesticide to provide mildew resistance which could be highly toxic if ingested.

Use: If possible, use latex paint rather than oil-based or other paints that require a solvent to clean up. Not only will you eliminate the hazards from the solvents in the paint, you will eliminate the need to use additional solvents to clean brushes. Wear protective gloves. If you need to clean oil-base paint from your skin, massage with a few drops of baby oil, butter, or margarine. Wipe dry and wash with soap and water.

Whenever possible, paint outdoors. When painting inside make sure ventilation is adequate. Use a fan to direct fumes away from the area where you are working and to the out-of-doors. Take plenty of fresh air breaks. Do not place flammable paints near flames, sources of sparks, or areas of intense heat. Never smoke around paints or while painting.

Your paint is usable if it will mix up when stirred. Oil paint can be usable for up to 15 years. Latex paint is usable if it is less than 10 years old and has not been repeatedly frozen and thawed. To see if your latex paint is still usable after being frozen, brush it onto newspaper and see if there are lumps. Paint is not usable if lumpy.

Storage: Seal can tightly when not in use. Keep all paints and paint products away from children and pets. Store flammable paint away from heat, flame, and source of ignition. Do not allow paint to freeze.

Disposal: The best way to dispose of paint is to use it up. Some suggestions to use up old paint are to paint boards, signs, dog and bird houses, or use it as an under coat for another project. Paint can be recycled if there is more than one-third gallon of usable paint and the paint is in the original can with a legible label. If you have useable recyclable paint and you cannot use it, recycle it by giving the paint to someone who can use it, such as friends, neighbors, schools, and theater groups.

If your paint has completely dried inside the paint can, can be placed in the trash destined for the sanitary landfill. If you have liquid paint which cannot be used or recycled, secure and hold for a professional household hazardous waste collection or give to a licensed hazardous waste handler.

Paint Thinner

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
TOLUENE	Produces headaches, nausea, narcosis, central nervous system depression
TURPENTINE	Irritant and skin allergen; vapors cause headache, confusion, respiratory distress
ETHYL ACETATE	Irritating to eyes, nose, and throat; anesthetic effects
MINERAL SPIRITS	Irritates skin, eyes, respiratory tract; narcotic; flammable

Turpentine and mineral spirits are commonly used in thinning paints and varnishes. Both ingredients are flammable and toxic, though mineral spirits are of lower toxicity. Mineral spirits, a petroleum distillate, can be harmful through inhalation, skin and eye contact, and ingestion. Contact and inhalation can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, dizziness, and dermatitis. Ingestion can induce central nervous system depression. Damage to lungs may result if mineral spirits are swallowed and then vomited.

Turpentine, a sticky mixture of resin and oil obtained from pine trees, is an irritating substance that can cause tissue death as well as damage to kidneys. Intoxication from vapors produces central nervous system depression with possible symptoms of headache, nausea, confusion and disturbed vision. Continued inhalation of vapors can cause a predisposition to pneumonia and chronic kidney inflammation. Vapors even in low concentrations can irritate eyes, nose, and throat.

Use: Wear a respirator with an organic vapor cartridge and protective gloves. Use paint thinners only if ventilation is adequate and take plenty of fresh air breaks. If skin contact occurs, wash the area immediately with soap and water.

Storage: Keep out of the reach of children. Store in a well-ventilated area away from flames and sources of ignition.

Disposal: Dirty paint thinner can easily be recycled at home for reuse. Pour the dirty paint thinner into a clearly labeled container with a good seal. Plastic jugs such as milk jugs may not be strong enough to withstand the vapor pressure in a warm environment. Glass jars work well but never use a beverage container because it can be easily mistaken for something to drink. Clearly label the container with the type of solvent and the date. Draw or write a clearly visible warning (such as a skull and crossbones or the word Danger). Store it away from sources of sparks for several weeks to months until the paint sludge settles on the bottom. Carefully pour the clean solvent off the top. This solvent can be reused. Allow the remaining paint sludge to dry completely in a well-ventilated area, outside of your home and away from pets and children. When all of the liquids have evaporated, the hardened sludge can be discarded in the trash. Small amounts of dirty paint solvent can be poured into a paint can of the same color and mixed well. This thinned paint can then be used for a second coat or another project. The best way to get rid of left over paint thinners is to use them as intended or find someone else who will. Unwanted portions of mineral licensed hazardous waste handler or a professional household hazardous waste collection.

Paint & Varnish Remover

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
BENZENE	Destroys ability to produce blood cells, can cause leukemia; flammable; carcinogen
METHYLENE CHLORIDE	Suspected carcinogen; vapors cause carbon monoxide accumulation in blood
TOLUENE	Produces headache, nausea, narcosis, central nervous system depression
PHENOL	Central nervous system depression; severely affects circulatory system; corrosive to skin; suspected carcinogen
CRESOL	Corrosive to tissue, damages liver, kidneys, lungs, pancreas and spleen

There are a variety of different formulations for products that remove paint and varnish (also called paint and varnish strippers). Most paint and varnish images contain organic solvents which are hazardous to human health. Most are highly flammable. Some nonflammable products will produce a toxic gas when in contact with flame. Paint and varnish images may contain some of these hazardous ingredients: acetone, benzene, isopropyl alcohol, methanol, methylene chloride, petroleum distillates, toluene, trichloroethane, and xylene. Although not presently used in paint and varnish images, benzene, a known human carcinogen, was an ingredient in older products.

Hazardous ingredients in paint and varnish images can harm your body through skin contact, skin absorption, ingestion, and inhalation. A common ingredient, methylene chloride, is a powerful narcotic which break down in the body to form carbon monoxide, potentially resulting in oxygen deprivation. The use of paint and varnish images containing methylene chloride by people with heart conditions has resulted in fatal heart attacks. Methylene chloride is also a known animal carcinogen and a suspected human carcinogen. See the specific ingredients in this section for additional information on the hazards associated with paint and varnish images.

Use: Never use paint and varnish images containing benzene. If you have a heart condition, do not use products containing methylene chloride. Follow label directions carefully. Do not smoke while using these products. Do not use paint and varnish images near flames, sparks, sources of ignition, or areas of intense heat. Beware of using paint and varnish images when the gas furnace is operating. The vapors may destroy your furnace by corrosion and the pilot light can ignite the vapors which will then explode.

Wear protective gloves and safety goggles. Work outdoors and in the shade. If you must work indoors, be sure to have adequate ventilation. Take plenty of fresh air breaks. If you can smell the product, you are inhaling the solvents and should wear an approved respirator with an organic solvent cartridge. Never use paint and varnish remover to clean your hands. (To remove oil-based paint from skin, massage with a few drops of baby oil, butter, or margarine. Wipe dry and wash with soap and water.) When through working, wash your hands and all exposed skin thoroughly before eating and drinking. When you are finished for the day, place solvent-covered rags and newspapers into a metal container with a lid and place the container outside of the house. Place the container beside your household trash for pick-up.

Storage: Store out of reach of children and pets in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Keep containers tightly closed. Keep away from sources of sparks, ignition, and flame.

Disposal: The best way to dispose of leftover paint and varnish remover is to use it up as intended or find someone who will use it up. If you cannot find a donation outlet for the paint and varnish remover or if it contains benzene, store and hold the product for a professional household hazardous waste collection or give it to a licensed hazardous waste handler for disposal.

Plastics

General

Plastics are materials with a high degree of utility and many safe household uses. They can take the place of other materials that may have more harmful relative impacts. Some plastics, however, are associated with dangers in the manufacturing process, when misused and on other occasions: over their entire lifecycle from manufacture to ultimate disposal. They also comprise a significant fraction o f the entire municipal waste stream.

For these reasons the principals of source reduction, reuse and recycling are just as valid for plastics as for other waste products.

General Composition

Plastic is made from fractions of natural gas or crude oil changed chemically into solid form. There are two basic types of plastic: thermosetting and thermoplastics. Thermosetting plastics are set to a permanent shape and cannot be softened. These plastics are used primarily for multiple use items, such as dishes and furniture. Thermoplastics are soft when exposed to heat and pressure and harden when cooled. Thermoplastics are the most common type of plastic and are used to make a variety of products.

Following is a list of some of the most common types of thermoplastics, along with their recycling code # (the number that appears in the triangle on the bottom), and their common uses.

Recycling Code	Plastic Type	Common Uses
#1	Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE)	soft drink containers
#2	High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)	milk crates milk jugs and beverage bottles soft plastic margarine tubs
#3	Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)	auto parts inflatable toys insulation pipes phonograph records shampoo bottles shower curtains some food containers
#4	Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE)	trash bags and other films
#5	Polypropylene	auto parts housewares pipes screw-on caps toys yogurt and margarine tubs
#6	Polystyrene	hot food containers packing materials plastic utensils wall tiles

General Impacts

While plastics have many practical applications and safe household uses, there are some hazards to plastics that merit their inclusion in the Virtual House website. These are the environmental and health impacts throughout the lifecycle of plastics -- from manufacture to use to ultimate disposal.

Plastics are a significant component of the overall waste stream. In 1998 they comprised 10.2% by weight and 24 % by volume (USEPA, Polystyrene Packaging Council). They comprise about 6 percent of all litter.

Plastics do not degrade readily. They never totally biodegrade in the environment because their content is not digestible by microorganisms. If they are not picked up by highway workers or volunteers, then they are moved by air and water or accumulate in low areas, waterways, and along fences.

Plastic litter is itself a danger to wildlife. It can kill or injure animals though entanglement in discarded fishing lines, 6-pack rings, and packing bands; or through ingestion of plastic that was mistaken for food.

Toxic Impacts and FDA Role

Toxic chemicals are used in the manufacture of plastics. These chemicals include benzene, cadmium compounds, carbon tetrachloride, chromium oxide, diazomethane, lead compounds, styrene, and vinyl chloride.

According to the federal Food and Drug Administration, 55% of all packaging made in the U.S. is for food, with plastics replacing other materials with increasing frequency. While FDA monitors plastics used in food packaging, it has no regulatory authority over plastics with "prior sanction," meaning those that were determined to be safe for use before 1958 (FDA Consumer, 1991).

The most immediate FDA regulatory contact for plastics in food packaging is:

Ms. Hortense L. Macon
Indirect Additives Branch
Division for Petition Control
Office of Premarket Approval
Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
200 C Street S.W.
Washington DC 20204
Phone: (202) 418-3086
Fax: (202) 418-3131
E-mail: HMACON@CFSAN.FDA.GOV

A recent concern regarding plastic consumer products is connected to phthalates, chemicals used to soften plastics and widely used in plastic toys and children's products. Laboratory experiments have linked phthalates to liver and kidney damage, and tumors. In 1998, the Consumer Product Safety Commission requested that manufacturers remove phthalates from products that children are likely to chew and mouth -- such as nipples, pacifiers, teethers, and soft rattles. Most manufacturers were expected to comply with this request by 1999. To check whether a specific toy contain phthalates, contact the Consumer Product Safety Commission at http://www.cpsc.gov.

Reasonable Responses

For the reasons stated previously, it important to make careful and sparing use of plastics. The familiar pattern of reduce, reuse and recycle is important.

Reduce the Source
You can reduce plastic use within your home by:
- Requesting paper bags at the supermarket.
- Requesting paper containers at stores that serve food and beverages in plastic foam.
- Buy products packaged in recyclable materials (such as: aluminum, paper, and glass)
- Avoid products with multi-layer packaging and support restrictions on such products.
- Consider carefully the economic and environmental tradeoffs associated with the useof disposable diapers.
Reuse
You can reuse plastic (or paper) many times.
Recycle
You can recycle plastic by:
- Finding a collection or recycling operation that will accept your plastic.
- Holding plastic drives as part of community paper drives.
- Supporting bottle-bill legislation that taxes or requires deposits on plastic containers.

Plastic recycling has grown significantly in quantity and impact. The annual amount of post-consumer plastic has increased at least sixfold since 1990: to 1.45 million pounds in 1998. This is, however still less than 10% of total annual plastic output; it is estimated that at least 80% of all thermoplastics could be melted down and made into new products.

Notes On Incineration and Decomposition

Incineration is one way to reduce the volume of plastics headed for the landfill. When burned, plastics release more energy than other municipal wastes. When burned in a municipal incinerator, plastics release more energy than other municipal wastes. However, they also contribute many pollutants, including heavy metals (e.g. cadmium, lead) to the incinerator's ash and air emissions. The incineration of PVC releases highly corrosive hydrochloric acid, which contributes to acid rain and may lead to the formation of dioxins in the environment. In addition, the energy value of PET plastic bottles is about 11,000 BTUs per pound. However it takes about 49,000 BTUs to produce one pound of PET. So even ignoring potential pollution, burning plastic as fuel is not efficient.

We know now that nothing breaks down very quickly in the anaerobic conditions of a landfill, so plastics are expected to remain in landfills unchanged for hundreds of years. There is some evidence of decomposition, however. Phthalates are hazardous substances widely used in plastics manufacture. One of these phthalates (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate) has been discovered in many leachate samples, leading researchers to believe that the chemicals are leaching from plastics buried in the landfill.

Biodegradable Plastics

Plastics, metals, and glass make up the bulk of the non-organic portion of the municipal solid waste stream. Plastics contribute to the volume of non-organic materials in landfills that are not easily degradeable. However, some companies have been researching and have made considerable progress toward the manufacture of plastics using plants as the raw materials, instead of nonrenewable petroleum. These plastics would degrade in a compost environment. In addition, some plastic products have been manufactured to be susceptible to photodegradation (degradation due to sunlight). Photodegradable plastics are primarily used in items like six pack rings that are often littered and may pose a threat to wildlife.

The potential for all wastes in landfills to decay may be slower than in the environment. Municipal solid waste landfills today are designed to stay dry in order to reduce the production of leachate and prevent groundwater contamination. There is some pilot testing and research of a different kind of landfill, called a bioreactor. In a bioreactor landfill, liquids are added in order to speed up decomposition so that the landfill will reach stability earlier than in a dry environment.

Marie Steinwachs, Office of Waste Management, University of Missouri Outreach and Extension.

Rodent Killer

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
WARFARIN	Causes internal bleeding if ingested in large amounts; toxic to fish

Aerosols

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
CHLOROFLUOROCARBONS	When released into the air, destroys the ozone layer in the earth's upper atmosphere. No longer used in aerosol products manufactured in the USA.

Aerosol sprays (e.g., furniture polish, deodorant, and air freshener) contain an active ingredient and a liquid or gaseous propellant that is packed under at least 40 pounds of pressure per square inch. These pressurized aerosol containers are explosive and may be flammable. The actual product propelled by the aerosol, such as some oven cleaners, can be corrosive or poisonous, therefore requiring great care.

Aerosol sprays should be used with care. The fine particles emitted from aerosol sprays are easily breathed deeply into the lungs and quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. Thus, a chemical that is harmless to your skin may become extremely dangerous if inhaled as a mist. Acute symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, eye and throat irritation, skin rash, burns, lung inflammation, and liver damage. If spray is misdirected, chemical burns and eye injury can also occur. Intentionally inhaling aerosol gases for kicks, sometimes called "sniffing" or "huffing," has resulted in the death of several young Americans.

An aerosol container should never be heated significantly above room temperature because it can explode. Storage of cans in direct sunlight, car trunks, and near furnaces, stoves, and ovens can result in explosion. When heated, aerosol gases can turn into toxic gases including fluorine, chlorine, chloride or hydrogen fluoride, or phosgene (military nerve gas). Breathing these vapors can be very harmful to you.

Significant environmental impact from aerosol sprays led to alterations in their design. Several of the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) that have been used in aerosol sprays in the past reacted with and reduced the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere. Reduction in the ozone layer and the resulting rise in ultraviolet radiation reaching the earth can result in increased rates of skin aging, eye damage, and Vitamin D poisoning. Before buying or using aerosol sprays, weigh their convenience against their potential health and environmental hazards.

Use: Consider alternatives to aerosol sprays, including alternative methods of application. If you are using an aerosol spray, try not to breathe the released particles; stand out of the way of the mist and make certain the mist is being blown away from you. (An exception to this advice is for bronchial or asthma medication dispensed by aerosol spray.)

Storage: Do not store near heat or flames. Keep away from children.

Disposal: If the aerosol can is empty, dispose of it in the trash bound for the landfill. Aerosol cans burned in trash barrels can explode, scattering propellant and product. If ingredients are left in the can the best thing to do is to use the product up as intended. If you must dispose of an aerosol can that isn't empty, discharge the contents of the container into a deep cardboard box outdoors, and allow it to dry. When the can is empty, it and the cardboard box can be thrown in the trash. If you discharge the contents be very careful: Do not spray near children, animals, or areas of human contact such as playgrounds or gardens. Avoid inhaling the vapors.

Alternatives: For the most part, aerosol sprays are no more effective than pouring, wiping, brushing, or dusting. Try to purchase products in pump spray, roll-on, liquid, or non-aerosol spray. Spray guns may be desirable in a case where you want to cover a large surface evenly.

Disinfectants

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
AMMONIA	Fumes irritate eyes and lungs; can cause burns or rashes on skin; can produce deadly chloramine gas if mixed with chlorine containing products
DETERGENTS	Toxic and poisonous to ingest, causing nausea and in extreme cases - coma
CRESOL	Corrosive to tissue, damages liver, kidneys, lungs, pancreas and spleen
LYE	Caustic product that burns skin, can cause blindness
PHENOL	Central nervous system depression; severely affect circulatory system; corrosive to skin; suspected carcinogen
PINE OIL	Irritates eyes and mucous membranes

Disinfectants are considered pesticides. They reduce some germs and are a temporary measure at best for making your home "germ free." Skin contact and vapors can be irritating and corrosive to the respiratory system and skin. Disinfectants are especially hazardous when dispersed from aerosol cans because the disinfectant can be easily ingested through the nose and mouth.

Disinfectants may contain one or more of the following hazardous substances: ammonia, cationic detergents, cresol, lye, phenol, pine oil. Please refer to these compounds for specific health hazards associated with these ingredients.

Use: Avoid aerosol dispensers. Handle disinfectant with gloves to avoid corrosive effects and absorption through skin and wear safety goggles. Make sure ventilation is adequate with plenty of fresh air present. Do not use disinfectants around food, animals, or children.

Storage: Keep away from children. Store in a well ventilated area.

Disposal: Use up as intended. To dispose of unused or unwanted portions take the product to a hazardous household waste collection center. If collection is not available, then flush the product down the drain with plenty of water. If on a septic tank or lagoon, dispose of small quantities over a number of days.

Drain Cleaner

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
LYE	Caustic causing burns to skin and in severe cases, blindness
SULFURIC ACID	Corrosive, causes severe skin burns, and can cause blindness

Chemical drain cleaners (also called drain openers) are extremely corrosive and dangerous to use. Common ingredients in drain cleaners include lye or sulfuric acid. These chemicals work by eating away materials, including your skin if it should come in contact. Likewise, vapors are harmful. If you are on a septic system, you should know that drain cleaners are hard on your system as they kill the microbial bacteria which are necessary to the workings of your septic tank. The use of chemical drain cleaners as a "preventative" measure is not a good idea. Boiling water or a handful of baking soda and half cup of vinegar poured down the drain weekly is at least as effective as a chemical drain cleaner and much, much safer for you and the environment. Also effective, particularly in preventing clogs, are many brands of enzymatic cleaners.

If you have used a chemical drain cleaner and the clog still exists, Do not try to clear the drain with a plunger or pressurized drain opener. This would only invite splashback. Also, do not add other cleaners to the drain following the use of a commercial drain cleaner. The combination of chemicals can produce toxic gas or become reactive and blow out of the sink and on to you. If a chemical drain cleaner has done nothing to help your clog and you still have standing water, then there is no reasonable choice except to call a professional to fix the clogged and now contaminated drain. Be sure to tell them what product was used in the drain so that they may adequately protect themselves.

If a drain cleaner claims to be "noncaustic" or "noncorrosive," it should state its ingredients. The product may still be poisonous if inhaled in heavy concentrations or swallowed.

Use: Wear protective gloves and safety goggles. Avoid fumes.

Storage: Store away from children.

Disposal: Use up as intended. Take unused product to a hazardous household waste collection center. If collection is not available and if you are connected to a sanitary sewer or municipal sewer treatment, you may dispose of unwanted portions of drain cleaner by flushing down the drain with plenty of water. If you are on a septic tank or lagoon, small amounts of drain cleaner may be flushed with plenty of water over a number of days. It would be best, however, to ask a friend, relative, or neighbor who is on a sanitary or municipal system to allow you to use their drain to dispose of your household quantity of drain cleaner.

Floor Cleaners

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
PINE OIL	Irritates eyes and mucous membranes
PETROLEUM DISTILLATES	Irritates skin, eyes, respiratory tract; may cause fatal pulmonary edema; flammable
NAPHTHAS	Inhalation causes drowsiness, headache, coma and cardiac arrest; irritate eyes, throat and skin

Hair Color

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
CADMIUM CHLORIDE	Fumes irritate eyes, lungs; can cause burns or rashes on skin
COBALT CHLORIDE	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death
CUPRIC CHLORIDE	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death
LEAD ACETATE	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death
SILVER NITRATE	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death

Hair Permanent

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
CADMIUM CHLORIDE	Fumes irritate eyes, lungs; can cause burns or rashes on skin
COBALT CHLORIDE	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death
CUPRIC CHLORIDE	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death
LEAD ACETATE	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death
SILVER NITRATE	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death

Hair Spray

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
AEROSOLS	Either associated with brain damage or highly flammable

Mildew Remover

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
PHENOL	Central nervous system depression; severely affect circulatory system; corrosive to skin; suspected carcinogen
KEROSENE	Causes lung inflammation; dries skin
PENTACHLOROPHENOL	Toxic to fetus and causes birth defects; toxic if inhaled, absorbed or ingested

Borax is an effective mildew remover and short-term preventative.

Nail Polish

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
TOLUENE	Produces headache, nausea, narcosis, central nervous system depression
XYLENE	Skin contact causes dermatitis; vapors are irritating; toxic to blood system of mammals

Nail Polish Remover

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
ACETONE	Toxic if ingested; irritates lungs, causes nails to become brittle; flammable
ETHYL ACETATE	Irritating to eyes, nose and throat; anesthetic effects

Scouring Powder

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
BLEACH	Fumes highly irritating to eyes and respiratory tract; causes deadly chloramine gas if mixed with ammonia

Most scouring powders use calcium carbonate as the abrasive, and may contain chlorine bleach. To prevent the formation of toxic gas, do not use cleansers containing bleach with other cleaning products such as toilet bowl cleaner, oven cleaner, or all-purpose cleaners which may contain ammonia. The combination of bleach and ammonia produces toxic chloramine gas. In sensitive individuals, scouring powder that contains chlorine may irritate and redden the skin.

Disposal: Use up as intended or give it to someone who can. If unwanted portions must be disposed of, flush down the drain with plenty of water. However, if on a septic tank or lagoon, dispose of small quantities over a number of days.

Alternatives: Baking soda or salt can be easily substituted for scouring powder. Alternative commercial products based upon diatomaceous earth are relatively safe, effective and non-abrasive. Nylon and other non-metallic scrubbing pads may also be effective.

Bleach

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
CHLORINE	Fumes highly irritating to eyes and respiratory tract; causes deadly chloramine gas if mixed with ammonia

Liquid household chlorine bleaches contain approximately 5% sodium hypochlorite solution. When properly used, chlorine bleach can be a simple and effective disinfectant. Chlorine bleach liquid and vapors are irritating to the skin, eyes, nose, and throat. Dermatitis may result from direct skin contact. Ingestion can cause esophageal injury, stomach irritation, and prolonged nausea and vomiting. Bleach, when mixed with acidic substances such as ammonia, toilet bowl cleaners, drain cleaner, or vinegar, forms toxic gases which can cause coughing, loss of voice, a feeling of burning and suffocation, and even death. Do not mix bleach with other cleaners!

Use: Wear protective gloves. Use only in well-ventilated areas with plenty of fresh air.

Storage: Store in a well-ventilated area and away from children.

Disposal: Use up as intended. To dispose of unwanted portions, flush down the drain with plenty of water. If you are on a septic tank or lagoon, dispose of small quantities over a number of days.

Alternatives: For household disinfecting, borax is an option. For bleaching clothes, oxygen (dry) bleaches work well. If you are sold on chlorine bleach, reduce the amount of liquid bleach used in your wash and add baking soda as a booster. For top loaders, add 1⁄2 cup and for front loaders, add 1⁄4 cup of baking soda. Use 1⁄2 the usual amount of liquid bleach.

Toilet Cleaners

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
SODIUM BISULFATE	Forms sulfuric acid, which is corrosive, burns skin
OXALIC ACID	Damages kidney and liver; irritates eyes and respiratory tract; corrodes mouth and stomach
5-DIMETHYLDANTOIN	Forms hypochlorite in water, which is corrosive to skin and mucous membranes
HYDROCHLORIC ACID	Fumes are extremely corrosive; burns skin
PHENOL	Central nervous system depression; severely affects circulatory system; corrosive to skin; suspected carcinogen

Window & Glass Cleaners

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
AMMONIA	Fumes irritate eyes, lungs; can cause burns or rashes on skin
ISOPROPANOL	Irritates mucous membranes; ingestion results in drowsiness, unconsciousness and death

Window and glass cleaner commonly contains isopropyl alcohol or ammonia, water, and coloring. It may be mildly irritating to the eyes, skin, nose, and throat.

Use: Always use window and glass cleaners in a well-ventilated area.

Storage: Keep out of reach of children.

Disposal: Unused or unwanted portions of window or glass cleaner should be flushed down the drain with plenty of water.

Carpet Cleaner

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
PERCHLOROETHYLENE	Fumes are carcinogenic and acutely toxic, cause dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, loss of appetite and disorientation
NAPHTHALENE	Damages liver; prolonged vapor exposure has led to cataract formation

These ingredients are most commonly found in commercial "spot removers", rather than water-based detergent products or rub-in cleansing powders.

Dry Cleaning

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
CARBON TETRACHLORIDE	Destructive to liver, kidney, and central nervous system by inhalation, absorption, skin contact, or ingestion
PERCHLOROETHYLENE	Fumes are carcinogenic and acutely toxic, causing dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, loss of appetite and disorientation
TRICHLOROETHANE	Irritating to eyes and nose, can result in central nervous system depression and kidney damage
NAPHTHAS	Inhalation causes drowsiness, headache, coma and cardiac arrest; irritate eyes, throat and skin
BENZENE	Destroys ability to produce blood cells, can cause leukemia; flammable; carcinogen
TOLUENE	Produces headache, nausea, narcosis, central nervous system depression

Carbon tetrachloride, now banned from household products, was the favorite solvent cleaner used in these products. A leading substitute, perchloroethylene or PERC, is a volatile, nonflammable solvent, that is fatal in large doses. There is concern over the chronic inhalation of perchloroethylene. The primary effect from acute and chronic inhalation of vapors is depression of the central nervous system. Other toxic chemicals often found in spot removing products include trichloroethane, ethylene dichloride, naphtha, benzene, and toluene. For specific health effects of these ingredients please refer to the individual headings. All of these solvents present an inhalation and ingestion hazard. Some also present a hazard through skin absorption.

Use: Wear nitrile gloves and arrange your work so that the fumes are blowing away from you. Do not allow children or pets into the room where you are working. Keep the lid on the fluid product as much as possible to avoid the solvent from volatilizing and being breathed. If you spill spot remover or dry-cleaning fluid on your skin, wash it off immediately with soap and water. If the solvent spills and puddles, absorb it with kitty litter and throw the wet absorbent material in a trash can outdoors. Never use dry-cleaning fluid or spot remover in a washing machine or put articles that are damp with solvent in a dryer. When you bring clothes home that have been dry-cleaned, take the plastic bag off and allow the clothes to air out well before wearing. When using a dry cleaning machine, to reduce vapors allow the door to remain ajar for a few minutes after the operation is complete. The solvent will evaporate quickly. Remove garments from the machine and allow to cool before handling.

Storage: Store away from heat and flames in a box lined with plastic bags.

Disposal: Currently available means offer no good way to dispose of leftover dry-cleaning fluid or spot remover. These solvents should be disposed of by a licensed hazardous waste handler or saved for a professional household hazardous waste collection. The best way to eliminate a waste problem is to carefully use up these products as they were intended.

Furniture Cleaner

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
PETROLEUM DISTILLATES	Irritate skin, eyes, respiratory tract; may cause fatal pulmonary edema; flammable
OIL OF CEDAR	Central Nervous system depressant; may induce spontaneous abortion

All Purpose Cleaners

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
AMMONIA	Fumes irritate eyes and lungs; can cause burns or rashes on skin; can produce deadly chloramine gas if mixed with chlorine containing products
ETHYLENE GLYCOL MONOBUTYL ACETATE	Poisons animals, who are attracted to sweet smell; can cause damage to internal organs through skin absorption; inhalation can cause dizziness
SODIUM HYPERCHLORITE	Corrosive to skin and mucous membranes; fumes irritating

The ingredients in all-purpose cleaners are a combination of detergents, grease cutting agents, and possibly solvents and disinfectants. These products may contain one or more of the following hazardous ingredients: ammonia, ethylene glycol monobutyl acetate, sodium hypochlorite, and trisodium phosphate. Depending upon thc ingredients contained in the particular cleaner, they can be mildly to extremely irritating to the skin, eyes, nose, and throat, and corrosive if swallowed. Chronic irritation may occur from repeated use.

Do not mix ammonia-based cleaners with bleach-based cleaners. Hazardous fumes will result! Cleaners that contain phosphates present a water pollution hazard.

Use: Wear gloves. Make sure that the ventilation is adequate. Do not mix different cleaners together as toxic fumes may result.

Aluminum Cleaners

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
HYDROFLUORIC ACID	Burns skin, damages muscles and bone

Many aluminum cleaners contain hydrofluoric acid which is extremely corrosive and toxic. Hydrofluoric acid is extremely dangerous! Upon contact, it destroys the flesh down to the bone as the fluoride ion continues to act until it is neutralized by a calcium store. The pain from burns may be delayed for several minutes to several hours, depending upon concentration. During this time, the acid in the aluminum cleaner can burn deeply into the tissue, causing severe burns and possible damage to muscles, ligaments, and bone. Low concentrations in the eyes can cause intense irritation; high concentrations, immediate blindness.

Use: Do not use products with hydrofluoric acid. If the aluminum cleaner ingredients are not on the label, you cannot assume hydrofluoric acid is not in the product. If you are using a product which contains this ingredient, protect all exposed skin in addition to wearing protective gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator with an acid gas cartridge.

Storage: Store away from children.

Disposal: If aluminum cleaner is in liquid form take it to a household hazardous waste collection. If collection is not available, then flush down the drain with plenty of water. If you are on a septic tank or lagoon, dispose of small quantities over a number of days. If cleaner is in solid paste form and has completely hardened, it may then be thrown in the trash destined for the landfill.

Air Fresheners

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
FORMALDEHYDE	A suspected carcinogen and a strong irritant to the eyes, throat, skin and lungs
PETROLEUM DISTILLATES	Irritates skin, eyes, respiratory tract; may cause fatal pulmonary edema; flammable
P-DICHLOROBENZENE	Vapor irritating to skin, eyes and throat, causes liver damage in animal studies
AEROSOL PROPELLANTS	Either associated with brain damage or highly flammable

Air fresheners work in one of the following four ways: by interfering with your ability to smell by way of a nerve-deadening agent; by coating your nasal passages with an undetectable oil film; by covering up one smell with another; and (rarely) by breaking down the offensive odor. Despite their name, air fresheners do little to freshen the air. Aerosol fresheners can be harmful to lungs if inhaled in high concentrations or for prolonged periods of time. Solid fresheners may be poisonous if eaten by children or pets.

Use: If freshener is in aerosol form, do not breathe fumes. Avoid skin contact. Use only in well-ventilated areas.

Storage: Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store away from heat or flame.

Disposal: It is best to use up air freshener as it was intended. For unwanted portions of solid air freshener, allow to evaporate by exposing it to the air.

Alternatives: There are several nontoxic ways to freshen the air in your home.

Insect Repellents

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
BUTOPYRONOXYL	Can cause mild necrosis in liver and kidney
CIMETHYL PHTHALATE	Ingestion causes central nervous system depression; not absorbed by the skin
DIETHYLTOLUAMIDE	Irritant to sensitive skin and respiratory tract tissues

As the name indicates, insect repellents deter mosquitoes, gnats, and other insects from biting and annoying the user. Common active ingredients in repellents include: Diethyl toluanide, Dimethyl phthlate, Ethyl hexanediol, Indalone, Di-n-propylisocinchoronate, Bicycloheptene dicarboximide, and Tetrahydro furaldehyde. The literature reports at least five cases of toxic exposures due to excessive skin absorption of diethyltoluamide (DEET), a common ingredient in twelve of the fifteen insect repellents examined by Consumers Union. Symptoms in all cases included loss of coordination, anxiety, behavioral changes, and mental confusion. Liver and kidney damage have been linked to indalone and ethyl hexanediol. Long-term skin application of indalone has caused liver and kidney damage in animals. Ethyl hexanediol may cause liver and kidney damage. Ingestion of large doses of insect repellent may cause loss of coordination, central nervous system depression, and possibly coma.

Use: Use sparingly. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and sensitive skin.

Storage: Keep out of the reach of children.

Disposal: Insect repellents are pesticides. With the exception of insect repellents containing banned or otherwise restricted pesticides, the best way to get rid of them is to use them up as intended. Insect repellents should never be burned, buried, mixed together, poured on the ground, dumped in the water, or poured down the drain. Leftover portions of all pesticides, including insect repellents, must be disposed of by a licensed hazardous waste handler or through a professional household hazardous waste collection.

Pet Supplies (Flea Collar, Shampoo, Spray, Powder)

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
ORGANOPHOSPHATES	Carcinogenic in rats, teratogenic in chick embryos; affects nervous system; acutely toxic causing headache, dizziness, twitching, nausea
CARBAMATES	Carcinogenic in rats; mutagenic; teratogenic in dogs and mice, affects nervous system

Photography Chemicals

Photography chemicals are substances used for processing film and making prints. This category includes a wide variety of chemicals. The largest manufacturer of photography chemicals, Kodak, has more than 20,000 products currently on the market.

The photography chemicals most often used at home are those involved in black-and-white film processing. The most commonly used solutions are developer, fixer, and stop bath. Photography chemicals that require special handling include intensifiers, dyes, and toners, which may contain selenium, uranium, iron, gold, and platinum. Color film processing is more complex. In particular, the developing baths of color transparency and color negative processing and home color printing require special precautions.

Many chemicals used to develop photographs are corrosive and can cause skin, eye, and lung irritation. Inhalation and skin contact are the primary routes of hazardous exposure. These chemicals are toxic if swallowed. Acids used in developing can burn and blind you. Photography chemicals have a longer shelf life in a powder form than in liquid concentrate, but the powder form does produce dust when poured and can be easily Powdered chemicals require longer agitation completely dissolve, possibly forming vapor droplets. These droplets are easily inhaled and can carry photography chemicals into the lungs.

Use: Always read and follow the product label instructions. Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, and an organic vapor respirator and cover all exposed skin. Kodak recommends at least 10 air changes per hour for workrooms and recommends exhaust ventilation for the processing and mixing tanks. A canopy-type exhaust hood should be sufficient for photograph development done occasionally in the home; using a bathroom-type exhaust fan is not adequate. Be sure the exhaust fan draws fumes away from you and the work area.

Always add acid to water. Never add water to acid when mixing chemical solutions. Avoid products containing benzene. For information on the ingredients of Kodak products, contact Kodak at 1-800-242-2424 and request a Material Safety Data Sheet.

Storage: Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Store acids in nonmetal, unbreakable containers. Store all chemicals in nonbreakable containers or place bottles inside plastic containers and clearly mark the contents on the outside. Label the working (diluted) solution with the date it was mixed up in order to avoid using outdated solutions.

Disposal: Unmixed chemicals need to be disposed of through a licensed hazardous waste handler or through a professional household hazardous waste collection. It is best to use up your chemicals or check with a school or photographic materials supplier to see if they can use your unwanted supplies to avoid this disposal problem.

Properly mixed and diluted black-and-white photography solutions can be flushed with plenty of water down the drain connected to the sanitary sewer system. If you use a septic tank or lagoon, ask a friend or relative who is connected to the sanitary sewer system if you might use their drain to dispose of your properly mixed and diluted photography chemicals.

If you have color photography chemicals and solutions contact the manufacturer for disposal instructions. Kodak has a referral number for its products (1-800-242-2424; ask for environmental/technical services).

Pool Chemicals

There are many chemicals used to balance, sanitize, and clean the water in swimming pools (including hot tubs and spas). The following describes the principal chemical products used to maintain pools.

Pool water is most comfortable when it is maintained at a pH between 7.2-7.6. The pH scale runs from 1 to 14, where 1-6.9 is acidic, 7 is neutral, and 7.1-14 is alkaline. The pH is controlled by adding either acid or alkali products. An acid, either muriatic acid (also known as hydrochloric acid) or sodium bisulphate, is added to lower the pH. To raise the pH, an alkali, sodium carbonate (also called soda ash) is added.

Pools use sanitizing chemicals to remove algae, harmful bacteria, dirt, germs, and organic matter carried into the pool on people's bodies and by the wind. These chemicals oxidize organic matter. Most typically a chlorine product is used to sanitize the pool. Either a liquid or dry product is added; liquid chlorine is usually a 10-15% solution of sodium hypochlorite and dry chlorine is usually calcium hypochlorite. A stabilizer is added to these products to reduce the quantity of chlorine dissipated by the sun.

Occasionally, algae will not be controlled by the chlorine sanitizer. A shock treatment of a large amount of chlorine (superchlorination) or a cationic detergent may be added to the water to kill the algae.

Many of these pool chemicals are corrosive and are hazardous to human health through skin contact splashed into the eye. Many of these chemicals, including different types of chlorine, can react violently when mixed to produce toxic gases, fire, or explode.

Use: Pool chemicals are often in concentrated form and should be handled with thought and care. Carefully read and follow the instructions and warnings on the label of each product. Clearly label the product with the date of purchase. Never mix various pool chemicals together. Use separate and clean scoops for each product:

Always add the chemical to the water. Never add water to dry or concentrated chemicals. When adding liquid chlorine into the pool, pour it as far from the pool edge as possible so it will disperse quickly into the water. Pool chemicals should always be added to the pool water separately and according to the time specifications of the directions. Pour chemicals gently into the pool, trying not to splash. Add chemicals while the filter pump is running to aid in rapid dispersal throughout the pool. Do not add chemicals while people are swimming and do not allow swimming again until the chemicals have dispersed for the specified amount of time. Mixing different chlorine products can cause severe reactions or explosions, so if you change brands of solid chlorine, be sure to rinse the dispenser or basket to remove any residue.

Do not handle pool chemicals with bare hands or them on eyes, skin, or clothing. Wear protective gloves and safety goggles. Wash hands and all exposed skin after handling chemicals. Do not handle chemicals near sources of ignition as some are flammable. Do not smoke while handling chemicals.

Storage: Keep away from children and pet. Close chemical containers tightly. Store them in a clean, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep liquid and dry chemicals separate. Do not stack pool chemicals. Store pool chemicals away from flammable materials and sources of sparks. Do not store them near metal tools or mechanisms since pool chemicals can cause corrosion.

Disposal: The very best way to dispose of these chemicals is to use them up or give them to someone who will. Some suggested places to donate your unwanted pool chemicals are the YMCA, schools, or the park system.

If you cannot find an outlet for your chemicals and if you can store them appropriately, secure and hold the chemicals for a professional hazardous waste collection program or give to a licensed hazardous waste handler for disposal. If you cannot find someone to use the unwanted chemicals and you cannot safely store them, flush small quantities down a drain connected to a sewer system with plenty of water. Contact your local wastewater treatment plant to determine if pool chemicals can be flushed into the sanitary sewer system. Be sure to wear protective gloves and safety goggles while doing this. Do not put pool chemicals down the drain if you use a septic tank or lagoon.

Solvents

A solvent is any substance that dissolves another substance. For example, mineral spirits (a petroleum solvent) dissolves paint. Water, the most common solvent, is an "inorganic" solvent because it does not contain carbon. Many solvents used in the home are organic" solvents. All organic solvents are hazardous!

Organic solvents used in household products are hazardous and contain the same ingredients as their industrial and commercial counterparts. Solvents are used in many household products. Products containing almost 100% solvents include paint thinner, furniture stripper, dry-cleaning fluid, spot remover, degreaser, turpentine, and nail polish remover. Products that are composed partially of solvents include furniture oil, glues, aerosol sprays, shoe care products, rug cleaners, and oil-based paints. Solvents can be flammable, toxic, or pose a serious health risk through skin absorption and inhalation. Some health hazards occur immediately. Others, such as liver and kidney problems, birth defects, and nervous disorders, occur slowly over time.

If absorbed through the skin, solvents are readily passed into the bloodstream where they must be filtered out by the liver and kidneys, the body's first line of defense against toxins. Solvent vapors are easily inhaled. Inhalation may cause nose and throat irritation and damage to lung tissue. Solvent vapors or splashes can cause severe eye damage, especially to those wearing soft contact lenses because the lenses absorb the solvents and hold them next to the eye. In addition, many solvents adversely affect the central nervous system, producing drunken or narcotic effects which can permanently affect normal functions. Intentional inhalation of solvents can result in unconsciousness and death.

Some Toxic Organic Solvents common to Household Products:

Aromatic Hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, xylene)
Isopropyl Alcohol
Methanol
Chlorinated Hydrocarbons (ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene, trichloroethylene, trichloroethane)
Naphthas
Petroleum solvents (kerosene, gasoline, mineral spirits)
Turpentine
Acetone

Environmental concerns are also associated with solvents. During normal use, solvents escape into the environment where they contribute to smog-producing air pollutants. If disposed of improperly, solvents can contribute to groundwater pollution.

Use: To protect yourself from the ill effects of solvents; work in a well-ventilated area and use a fan to direct fumes away from the area where you are working and to the out-of-doors. Wear goggles, gloves, and clothing that covers exposed skin. After handling solvents, always wash your hands and any exposed skin before eating or smoking. Do not drink alcoholic beverages while using solvents because they intensify the toxic effects.

Storage: Solvents should be stored in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. If the solvent product is flammable or contained in an aerosol spray, precautions should also be taken to store away from heat, flame, or sources of ignition.

Disposal: The best way to dispose of solvents is to use them up as intended. If you have usable solvent and cannot use it yourself, donate your leftovers to someone who will use it up. Otherwise, solvents should be safely secured and stored for a professional household hazardous waste collection or taken to a licensed hazardous waste handler.

Wood Preservatives

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
PENTHACHLOROPHENOL	Toxic to fetus and causes birth defects, toxic if inhaled, absorbed, or ingested
CREOSOTE	Vapors cause eye and nasal irritation, it is a skin carcinogen and can be absorbed through the skin
COPPER NAPHTHENATE	An eye, skin, and lung irritant, a possible carcinogen and affects the nervous system; combustible; harmful to aquatic life

Wood preservatives are products containing pesticides which protect wood from pests and rot. Three widely used wood preservatives - creosote, inorganic arsenic compounds (CCA), and pentachlorophenol (penta) are highly toxic. In November 1986, the use of wood preservatives containing these compounds was restricted, which means that only licensed applicators can now purchase products containing these compounds.

Creosote has been linked to genetic damage, inorganic arsenic compounds are related to both genetic damage and birth defects, and pentachlorophenol is associated with birth defects and fetal toxicity. The Environmental Protection Agency strongly suggests that homeowners leave work involving wood preservatives to professionals. If you have a deck, tables, or other furniture that are treated with one of these types of wood preservatives, EPA advises sealing it with at least two coats of shellac or other sealant. Currently when creosote or pentachlorophenol is used on wood intended for human contact, it must be coated with shellac or another sealant.

Use: Never burn treated wood in the fireplace; the fumes will be toxic. Special training is required to learn the proper precautions for applying wood preservatives that contain creosote, inorganic arsenic compounds, or pentachlorophenol.

Storage: Keep out of the reach of children. Store in well-ventilated area in a box lined with plastic bags. Carefully label the outside of the box with its contents.

Disposal: Wood preservatives that contain creosote inorganic arsenic compounds, or pentachlorophenol need to be disposed of by a licensed hazardous waste handler or through a professional household hazardous waste collection. There is no good means to safely dispose of leftover wood preservative short of getting rid of it by using it up as it was intended.

Insecticides

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
ORGANOPHOSPHATES	carcinogenic in rats; teratogenic in chick embryos; affects nervous sytem; acutely toxic causing headache, dizziness; twitching, nausea
CARBAMATES	Carcinogenic in rats; mutagenic; teratogenic in dogs and mice; and affects nervous system

Oven Cleaner

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
SODIUM HYDROXIDE	Extremely corrosive, burns skin and eyes; usually fatal if swallowed; aerosols disperse chemicals, increasing inhalation dangers
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE	Extremely corrosive, burns skin and eyes; usually fatal if swallowed; aerosols disperse chemicals, increasing inhalation dangers

The majority of oven cleaners contain lye (sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide), which is an extremely corrosive ingredient. Whether the cleaners are contained in aerosol spray form, liquid, paste or powder, lye can attack skin, eyes, or internal organs. Lye in aerosol form is especially hazardous because small droplets containing lye can drift and land on skin, eyes, and sensitive lung surfaces. Labels on most oven cleaners warn that the product can burn skin and eyes and that fumes and vapors should be avoided.

Use: Avoid aerosol oven cleaners. Wear an apron, protective gloves, safety goggles, and a respirator with an organic vapor cartridge. Make sure there is plenty of fresh air and adequate ventilation present.

Storage: Keep out of the reach of children.

Disposal: Use up as intended. Take unused portions to a hazardous household waste collection center. If a collection center is unavailable, wrap in several layers of newspaper and dispose of in the trash.

Alternatives: Use a non-toxic oven cleaner.

Roach Killer

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
ORGANOPHOSPHATES	Carcinogenic in rats; teratogenic in chick embryos; affect nervous system; acutely toxic causing headache, dizziness, twitching, nausea
CARBAMATES	Carcinogenic in rats; mutagenic, teratogenic in dogs and mice; affects nervous system

Bait and trap devices are usually much safer than broadcast or spray pesticide use.

Dyes

There are many types of dyes and which one you use depends primarily on the type of fabric that is to be dyed. The chronic effects of most synthetic and natural dyes have not been fully researched. Many of the chemicals used in dyeing fabrics are hazardous to your health through skin contact and inhalation.

Many dyes require additional chemicals (mordants) to bind the dye into the cloth fibers. Mordants are used with both natural and synthetic dyes and can cause serious health effects. Some mordants are ammonia (a skin irritant), oxalic acid (a corrosive), and potassium dichromate (toxic when inhaled).

Two common types of dyes used in the home are natural and direct dyes. Natural dyes (also known as mordant dyes) require the use of a mordant and are prepared from plants, insects, and algae. These dyes are used to color cotton and silk. Since most natural dyes are prepared by soaking the natural product, there is no hazard due to inhalation. However, since the mordant may be hazardous, be sure to protect yourself from skin absorption.

All commonly available household dyes are direct dyes. These dyes are used for coloring cotton, linen, or viscose rayon. Table salt is used as a dyeing assistant and the dyes require heat in order to set. Many direct dyes are based on benzidine or benzidine derivatives, which are highly toxic by inhalation and ingestion, and possibly through skin absorption. Benzidine and its derivatives are known carcinogens.

To find out more about dyes, request the data sheet "Dyes Hazards and Precautions" published by the Center for Occupational Hazards. To obtain a copy, send a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your request to: 5 Beekman Street, New York, New York 10038.

Use: If you use fabric dyes, please follow these general rules for safe use.

Know what type of dye you have and its health hazards. A Color Index (C.I.) number or name is assigned to all commercial dyes. The C.l. identifications make it possible to research scientific literature for details about the properties and hazards of a dye. In addition, request the Material Safety Data Sheey (MSDS) from the manufacturer.
Avoid inhalation of dye powders and fiber dusts. Use dyes dissolved in water (never other solvents) rather than powder form.
Protect yourself. Wear appropriate gloves. Wear special work clothes when working with dyes and wash them separately from other laundry.
Use separate utensils for dyes and for food. A pot which seems clean can be porous enough to hold hazardous amounts of dye.
Do not use bleach, organic solvents, or other strong chemicals to clean dye-stained skin.
Do not use chemical dyes, including all-purpose household dyes, where children under the age of 12 are present or if your are pregnant. Do not let children under 12 years of age use dyes. Use food coloring and natural plant and vegetable dyes with children. Do not let children apply mordants.

Storage: Store materials in break-resistant containers. Label all containers clearly and cover them tightly. Store out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal: Use up unmixed dyes as directed or share dyes with others who will us ethem. Contact your local waste water treatment facility concerning the disposal of mixed and unmixed dyes.

Radon

Radon (Rn) is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas. Radon is produced when trace amounts of uranium and radium in the soil or rocks decay. The radon gas will then also decay into radioactive solid particles, called radon daughters or radon progenitors. Some of the short-lived radon daughters attach themselves to small particles in the air, which can be inhaled deep into the lungs.

The major sources of radon are: soil that contains radon-releasing material; water and natural gas that has passed through underground areas containing radon; solar-heating systems that use radon-emitting rocks to store heat; granite rock; and uranium or phosphate mine tailings.

Out-of-doors, radon poses little threat to our health because it is in such a low concentration. Indoors, however, radon can become more concentrated because of the lack of ventilation in homes combined with exhaust fans that draw air. Radon gas can seep into a house through dirt floors, cracks in concrete floors and walls, floor drains, sump pumps, and joints. Radon gas can also accumulate in private wells and be released into the home when water is used. This is normally not a problem for large community water supplies. The level of radon that can build up indoors depends upon the amount of radon in the source material and the rate at which it is removed from the home by ventilation. Homes tested throughout the U.S. show a wide range of radon concentrations.

Radon is measured in picocuries per liter (pCi/l). One pCi/l means that for each liter of air or water, two radon atoms decay to other atoms per minute. Radon daughters are measured in working levels (WL), which is a gauge of exposure. One WL is approximately equal to 200 pCi/l of radon. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that household levels of radon and radon daughters stay at 6r below 0.02 WL (= 4 pCi/l).

These quick, inexpensive steps advised by the EPA can be taken to help lower your risks from radon exposure:

Stop smoking and discourage smoking in your home; it may increase the risk of radon exposure.
Spend less time in areas with higher concentrations of radon, such as the basement.
Whenever practical, increase the airflow into and through your house, especially in the basement.
If your home has a crawl space beneath, keep the vents on all sides of the house fully open all year.

There are two commercially-available radon detectors; the charcoal canister and the alpha-track detector. Both of these are exposed to the air in your home for a specific time period and sent to a laboratory for analysis. The EPA has put out two informative booklets: "A Citizen's Guide to Radon: What it is and What to do about it", and "Radon Reduction Methods: A Homeowner's Guide." For additional information about radon, contact the American Lung Association.

Spot Remover

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
ERCHLOROETHYLENE	Fumes are carcinogenic and acutely toxic, cause dizziness, sleepiness, nausea, loss of appetite and disorientation

Starch

Hazardous Constituent	Possible Effects
FORMALDEHYDE	A suspected carcinogen and a strong irritant to the eyes, throat, skin and lungs
PHENOLS	Central nervous system depression; severely affects circulatory system; corrosive to skin; suspected carcinogen
PENTACHLOROPHENOL	Toxic to fetus and causes birth defects; toxic if inhaled, absorbed, or ingested

Detergent

The word "detergent" refers to household cleaning products which are based on non-soap, synthetic surfactants and which are primarily used for laundering and dishwashing. There are several types of detergents including automatic dishwashing, hand dishwashing, enzyme, and low-phosphate detergents.

All detergents contain "cationic," "anionic," or "non- ionic" detergents. Cationic detergents are the most toxic when taken internally. Symptoms from ingestion include nausea, vomiting, shock, convulsions, and coma as quickly as one to four hours after ingestion, due to rapid absorption. By themselves, anionic detergents have low toxicity causing mild, local irritation of skin and eyes. But the addition of "builders" to anionic detergents is common and makes anionic detergents alkaline and caustic. Non ionic detergents have low toxicity. At most, mild irritation of the skin and mucous membranes occurs. Ingestion causes no hazardous effects. Some typical nonionic detergents are alkyl aryl polyether sulfates, alcohol sulfonates, alkyl phenol polyglycol ethers, and polyethylene glycol alkyl aryl ethers.

Detergents are responsible for many household poisonings. Part of the problem is that detergent boxes are brightly colored and attractive and commonly stored in low, accessible places. There is a common misconception that low-phosphate detergents are "safe." While low phosphate detergents are safer to the environment, they are 100 to 1000 times more caustic than phosphate detergents. This means that low-phosphate detergents can cause serious burns if even a small amount is ingested. Since powdered granules are more difficult to accidentally swallow, powdered rather than liquid detergents may be a safer choice if you have small children in the home. All detergents should be carefully stored well away from the reach of children.

- Automatic Dishwashing Detergent -

Most automatic dishwashing detergents are alkaline with pH values of 10.5 to 12.0. These products may be classified as irritants or corrosives depending upon their composition, concentration, and physical form. Skin irritation or burns may occur following exposure to dissolved detergents. Toxicity may range from mild tissue causes severe burns. The fact that automatic dishwashing detergents contain phosphate causes environmental concerns. You might consider buying a powdered automatic detergent over a liquid variety, because powdered detergents are more difficult to mistakenly swallow Automatic dishwashing detergents may also contain sodium carbonate.

- Hand Dishwashing Detergent -

These products are intended for the handwashing of dishes. Hand dishwashing detergents are much less toxic than automatic dishwashing detergents. Hand dishwashing detergents are combinations of anionic and non-ionic detergents, glycols, alcohols, and salts. Exposure to the membranes of the mouth, throat, and gastro - intestinal tract may be irritating but not caustic. Anionic and non-ionic detergents are not well absorbed, and no toxic dose has been established. Hand dishwashing detergents are generally considered low in toxicity.

- Enzyme Detergent -

Enzymes are found in various laundry detergents and pre-soaks to loosen soil and remove stains. The enzymes are obtained from selected strains of bacteria. Products which contain enzymes have irritating and sensitizing properties. Asthma and dermatitis may occur from industrial exposure to these enzyme products but would be unlikely from routine household use. Granulated detergents, which encapsulate the enzyme, are less toxic than powdered formulations to people who have become sensitized to these enzyme detergents.

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