View
214
Download
1
Category
Tags:
Preview:
Citation preview
Household Hazardous Waste and Non-Toxic
Cleaners
November 30th, 2011Tara Roffler, Ramsey County and
Rebecca Kulas, Dakota County
Hazardous Waste in the Home Americans generate 1.6 million tons of
harmful household chemicals per year The average home accumulates 100 pounds
of hazardous waste over time
Overview Identifying hazardous products Proper storage Proper disposal Alternative cleaners Resources to share
hazardous waste: waste with characteristics that make it harmful to human health and the environment
CORROSIVE
IGNITABLE
REACTIVE
TOXIC
Household Hazardous Waste Aerosols Fluorescent Lamps
Appliances Mercury Products Batteries Oil & Oil Filters Corrosives Paints
Electronics Pesticides & Poisons Flammable Liquids Tires
Exposure Pathways for Chemicals
Inhaling Swallowing Absorption through
skin/eyes Contact from eating,
drinking or smoking
Signal Words for Toxicity
Less Toxic Caution Mild hazard
Warning moderate hazard
More Toxic Danger: Poison
extremely flammable, corrosive or highly toxic
10 Safety Precautions
1. Do not use when children are present
2. Keep your house well ventilated
3. Wear protective clothing
4. Purchase only what you need
5. Don’t use hot water
10 Safety Precautions (continued)
6. Never mix cleaners
7. Rinse cleaned surfaces thoroughly
8. Avoid waxes and polishes, as well as toilet bowl and oven cleaners
9. Don’t use aerosol cleaners
10. Take extra precaution in the kitchen
Where to Store Hazardous Products Keep in original container Store in closet or garage, not kitchen Store flammables away from heat sources Keep out of reach of young children
What to Do with Leftover Chemicals
1. Use it up or share with a neighbor
2. Bring it to a county Household Hazardous
Waste collection site
Chemical Chemical Health EffectHealth Effect ProductProduct
Alkyl phenoxy ethanolsHormone disruptors – can cause cancer and birth defects
Laundry detergents
All-purpose cleaners
Amyl acetate Neurotoxin Furniture polish
DioxaneImmunosuppressant
Carcinogen
Window cleaners
Laundry and dish soap
Phosphoric acid Corrosive skin toxicantTub and tile cleaners
Toilet cleaners
Habits for Safer Purchases Read the labels Choose the least harmful
product Choose low or no VOC
(Volatile Organic Compound) options
Buy only what you need Check the product for
Health and Safety Data
Look for Safer Cleaners
Biodegradable Non-toxic Most Plant-based
ingredients (note: some plant based ingredients can be harmful)
Product Certifications Third Party Certification Programs
Green Seal Eco Logo Greenguard
US EPA Design for the Environment
Natural IngredientNatural Ingredient PurposePurpose
Baking SodaDeodorizer, non-abrasive scouring powder
BoraxDeodorizer, disinfectant, non-abrasive scouring powder, all-purpose cleaner, mold inhibitor, rust stain remover
Citrus fruit (orange, lemon, lime)Grease cutter, deodorizer, flea repellent
Eucalyptus oil Insect repellent
Hydrogen Peroxide Bleaching agent and antibacterial
Natural IngredientNatural Ingredient PurposePurpose
Olive oil Wood polisher
Toothpaste Silver cleaner
Vegetable-based liquid soap General detergent product substitute
Washing SodaGrease cutter, stain remover, disinfectant, wax remover, deodorizer, removes hard water marks
White Distilled VinegarGrease cutter, cleaning wood and glass, removing tarnish
Habits for a Cleaner Home
Leave dirt outside Think of safer alternatives Follow product directions Clean up spills as soon as
possible Clean frequently
Recommended