 |
 |
| 
Most workplaces use products containing toxic constituents, such as cleaning supplies, paints, pesticides, and solvents. Exposure to toxics can result in health problems, such as asthma, liver or kidney damage, and even cancer. Your organization can create a safer workplace by reducing and eliminating products that are toxic, carcinogenic, and flammable. Safer workplaces can reduce worker absences due to illness or injury, decrease workers’ compensation claims, and lessen your liability exposure. Since toxic chemicals can end up in local wastewater systems or lead to ozone depletion, using fewer or less-toxic chemicals also lessens their potential impacts on the environment. Product labels indicate the hazard level associated with using the products. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), provided by the manufacturer of any product containing a toxic substance, specifies the hazardous ingredients and health impacts of the product. Look for opportunities to create a safer workplace by using less-toxic or non-toxic products. Review the following list of toxic, carcinogenic, and flammable products to learn about their toxic constituents, potential health impacts, and possible substitutes. Go to potential health effects to view a complete list of toxic chemicals contained in these products and their potential health impacts. For additional links on reducing toxics, visit resources. AUTOMOTIVE PRODUCTS CUSTODIAL PRODUCTS ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND BATTERIES MERCURY CONTAINING PRODUCTS PAINT PRODUCTS PESTICIDES, HERBICIDES, AND FERTILIZERS Most commercially available antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, a chemical that helps to control the temperature of the water in a vehicle’s radiator. During its life in a vehicle, antifreeze may become contaminated with fuel or heavy metal particles and grit. If the levels of dissolved metals, such as lead or cadmium, are high enough, used antifreeze may be a hazardous waste. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) requires a hazardous waste determination on used antifreeze unless it is recycled in a totally enclosed system. Do not dispose of antifreeze down the drain, in sewers, or into streams. Never drain the antifreeze from your car onto the street. The sweet smell of antifreeze is appealing to dogs and cats, who may drink it. Antifreeze is poisonous to animals — even a small amount can kill them. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Ethylene glycol, Lead, Toluene SUBSTITUTES: Consider specifying antifreeze containing less-toxic propylene glycol, rather than ethylene glycol. Propylene glycol antifreeze is readily available at a cost comparable to that of ethylene glycol antifreeze. Use long-life antifreeze that lasts five years or 150,000 miles. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and antifreeze in our tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Brake cleaners typically are aerosol solvent products specifically designed to clean brake parts. Petroleum-based solvents are not recommended for brake cleaning or inspections, since the petroleum distillates are known to damage brake parts and friction materials. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Acetone, n-Heptane, n-Hexane, Methylene chloride, Perchloroethylene, Tetrachloroethylene, Toluene, Xylene SUBSTITUTES: Consider using less-toxic brake cleaners, which are readily available and often cost less than products with harmful constituents. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products. Car wash detergents often contain solvents and harsh acids. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Chlorinated hydrocarbons, Hydrochloric acid, Methylene chloride, Naphthalene, Phenol, Phosphoric acid, Sulfuric acid, Trichloroethylene SUBSTITUTES: Consider using products with food-grade acids as replacements for hazardous mineral acids such as hydrochloric, sulfuric, and others. Use products with water-based rust and soft metal corrosion inhibitors that are safe and need not be removed for further processes such as painting. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and automotive products in our tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Vehicle maintenance facilities regularly replace used lead-acid batteries. Improper handling or disposal of these batteries may result in leaks or spills of acid. It is illegal to discard auto batteries as trash. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Copper, Lead, Sulfuric acid SUBSTITUTES: Consider purchasing longer-life lead-acid batteries to reduce the frequency of change-out. Substitute sealed gel-cell batteries, where applicable. Sealed batteries do not require addition of sulfuric acid and require less maintenance. They also may last up to two times longer. ALSO SEE the list of vendors for alternative products and recyclers, lead-acid batteries in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips, and rechargeable battery and cell phone recycling: info for agencies for how agencies should handle rechargeable batteries. Maintenance facilities often operate parts-washer solvent tanks for cleaning parts and tools. Solvents used include mineral spirits, as well as other chemicals. When no longer usable, the solvents become hazardous wastes because they are ignitable and/or toxic. Always check the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for proper use and disposal methods for any solvent. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Benzene, Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), Perchloroethylene, Toluene, Trichloroethylene, 1,1,1 Trichloroethane, Xylene SUBSTITUTES: Enclosed cabinets help contain fumes. Consider using less hazardous solvents, such as water-based detergents, citrus-based degreasers, or aqueous or semi-aqueous cleaners. Or use hot soap or jet-spray washers to clean parts. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, solvents in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips, and resources for helpful links. Aerosol cans are used to dispense a variety of maintenance and pest control products, including general cleaners, insecticides, and paints. The aerosol system releases both product and propellant into the air, allowing workers to breathe the chemicals. Aerosol dispensers may waste product by propelling it into the air and onto surfaces other than those intended. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Dimethyl ether, Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) (mixture of propane, isobutane and n-butane), Toluene SUBSTITUTES: Use liquid forms of cleaning and maintenance products to avoid release of propellants into the air. Choose pump-spray dispensers over aerosols. Or use products with soluble compressed gas (e.g., carbon dioxide) or non-soluble compressed gas (e.g., compressed air and nitrogen) propellants as alternatives to LPG. ALSO SEE cleaning products in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. The cresols, phenol, and formaldehyde in deodorizers and air fresheners desensitize the nose. These chemicals are associated with numerous health problems. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Cresols, Formaldehyde, Naphthalene, Phenol, Xylene SUBSTITUTES: Consider products containing limonene, a natural lemon ingredient used in many air fresheners. To absorb odors, place baking soda or white vinegar in small dishes. Sprinkle baking soda in trash cans. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and cleaning products in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Disinfectants are designed to kill germs. To do so, they often contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to people. Some toxic fumes can escape even through tightly closed containers. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Ammonia, Chlorine, Cresols, Formaldehyde, Methylene chloride, Phenol SUBSTITUTES: Consider using products containing hydrogen peroxide, which is a safer sanitizing and oxidizing agent than chlorine bleach. Or add borax to boiling water to create a disinfectant. Allow mixture to cool before use. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and cleaning products in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Industrial floor cleaners and strippers contain caustic chemicals. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: 2 -Butoxyethanol, Ethanolamine, Potassium hydroxide, Sodium hydroxide SUBSTITUTES: Consider enzymatic cleaners and detergents, and non-caustic strippers. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and cleaning products in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Many polish ingredients have been found to cause cancer in animals. Residual vapors can contaminate areas long after application of the wax or polish. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Nitrobenzene, Perchloroethylene, Phenol, Toluene, Xylene SUBSTITUTES: Consider using products containing simple alcohols such as methyl or isopropyl alcohol instead of strong solvents such as xylene. Polish finished wood with wax once or twice a year. Wax builds a protective shield, makes wood glossy, and produces a non-skid finish. Or create less-toxic polishes: Melt one-quarter cup paraffin in a double boiler. Stir in 2 quarts of mineral oil, or combine 1 tablespoon lemon oil and 1 pint of mineral oil. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and cleaning products in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Glass cleaners emit an ammonia mist, which the user breathes. Although ammonia is a poison, glass cleaning products do not carry a warning label. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Ammonia, 2-Butoxyethanol SUBSTITUTES: First, use rubbing alcohol to clean the residual wax left from commercial glass cleaners. Then clean with a mixture of half white vinegar and half water. Or mix a solution of 2 tablespoons vinegar to 1 quart water; apply with a wad of newspaper. Wipe windows dry with a soft cloth. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and cleaning products in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Graffiti removers use strong solvents to remove spray paint, marker, and other indelible substances from barriers, walls, and other surfaces. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Methylene chloride, Perchloroethylene, Toluene SUBSTITUTES: Consider using less-toxic or non-toxic products for graffiti removal. These products are widely available at a price comparable to that of the more toxic products. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products. Kitchen degreasers can contain strong solvents that may be breathed or ingested in a kitchen environment. Products can linger on work surfaces and contaminate food items. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Perchloroethylene, Toluene SUBSTITUTES: Consider using mixtures containing vinegar, baking soda, washing soda, borax, and lemon juice to cut kitchen grease. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and visit cleaning products and solvents in tips for your agency. Fumes from the chemicals contained in polishes applied to chrome, stainless steel, and other metals may contribute unnecessary pollution to the air in your facility. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Ammonia, Perchloroethylene, Phosphoric acid, Sulfuric acid, Xylene SUBSTITUTES: Consider using reformulated commercial products that do not contain dangerous chemicals. Use common products such as baking soda, white flour, or rubbing alcohol on a dry rag. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and cleaning products in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Toilet bowl and urinal cleaners often contain harsh acids that can corrode plumbing systems as well as harm workers. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Hydrochloric acid, Perchloroethylene, Phosphoric acid SUBSTITUTES: Consider using non-acid, non-caustic cleaners. Sprinkle baking soda around the bowl and wait a few minutes. Pour in white vinegar and scrub with a toilet brush. Vinegar is a mild acid and should remove any hard water scale. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, and cleaning products in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Alkaline batteries, which are standard single-use batteries, no longer contain Mercury, therefore they are not considered hazardous. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Potassium hydroxide SUBSTITUTES: Consider using rechargeable batteries, which last longer and are therefore more cost-effective than single-use batteries. In addition, rechargeable batteries are more easily recyclable than single-use alkaline batteries. ALSO SEE list of vendors for recyclers, and batteries in tips for your business for waste prevention tips. Computers, Televisions, and Other Electronic Equipment While safe to use, electronic products contain heavy metals and other toxics that can be dangerous both during production and disposal of these products. These items are included in circuit boards, monitors, cable and casing. Business and institutions must ensure that all electronic products are recycled properly at time of disposal. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Cadmium, Chromium, Lead, Mercury SUBSTITUTES: Consider purchasing computers that meet Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) standards; such devices meet various levels of environmental criteria, including the use of less toxic materials. ALSO SEE take it back nyc! for electronics take-back programs, electronics recycling for disposal information, list of vendors for disposal options, Local Law 13 of 2008 for information on NYC's electronics recycling law, electronics in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips, resources for helpful links. Compared to single-use batteries, rechargeable batteries reduce waste; however, they can contain cadmium, lead, and other heavy metals that can be dangerous if not disposed of properly. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Cadmium, Chromium, Copper, Lead, Sulfuric acid SUBSTITUTES: Consider using lithium-ion and nickel-metal-hydride rechargeable batteries which are less toxic than the nickel-cadmium and lead-acid batteries. ALSO SEE rechargeable battery and cell phone recycling: info for agencies for how agencies should handle rechargeable batteries, list of vendors for recyclers, batteries in tips for your business for usage and waste prevention tips, and waste less at home resources for helpful links. While more energy efficient, fluorescent lamps contain small amounts of mercury that can be released into the atmosphere if broken. The fluorescent lighting industry has dramatically reduced the amount of mercury in lamps, such that most lamps are at or below 10mg of mercury. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Mercury SUBSTITUTES: Consider purchasing low-mercury fluorescent lamps usually indicated by a "green tip" or characteristic green-colored aluminum end. Certain green tip and other “low-mercury” lamps have mercury levels as low as 3-6mg. ALSO SEE list of vendors for disposal options and fluorescent lamps in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips. Thermostats/Other Mercury Devices Thermostats, thermometers, and other mercury containing devices can cause chronic health effects when released into the atmosphere. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Mercury SUBSTITUTES: Consider purchasing digital replacements for thermostats, thermometers, and other equipment. ALSO SEE list of vendors for disposal options and mercury in tips for your business for health care facility usage and waste prevention tips. Up to 300 toxic substances, including metals, solvents, and fungicides, have been found in commercial oil and latex paints. Potentially harmful vapors are emitted for months after paint dries. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Acetone, n-Butyl alcohol, Chromium, Lead, Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), Toluene, Xylene SUBSTITUTES: Use latex paints whenever possible. The volatile organic compound (VOC) content of latex paints is much lower than in solvent-based paints, reducing worker exposure. Specify low-VOC paints. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, paint in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips, and resources for helpful links. Oil-based paint thinner contains flammable and toxic solvents. Most solvent exposure comes from breathing the vapors. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Ethyl acetate, Mineral spirits, Toluene, Turpentine SUBSTITUTES: Consider using paint thinners that do not contain solvents and mineral spirits. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products. Most paint strippers contain flammable and toxic solvents. Methylene chloride, a cancer-causing agent, is a major component of nearly all chemical paint removers on the market. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Acetone, Methylene chloride, Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), Toluene, Trichloroethylene, Xylene SUBSTITUTES: Consider using paint strippers that contain benzyl alcohol, a less-toxic alternative to the solvents typically found in paint strippers. Use paint strippers with natural citrus-based solvents. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products. Pesticides are poisons formulated to kill specific insects or other pests, such as rodents. Since these products are poisonous, they can cause harm to humans as well. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Organophosphates, Carbamates, Chlorinated hydrocarbons (Organochlorines, including DDT), Methyl bromide (bromomethane), Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids. (These are just a few of the insecticides available for residential and commercial use.) SUBSTITUTES: Consider ultrasonic products that keep pests away with sound waves. Or use borates (boric acid), made from low-toxicity mineral salt with insecticidal, fungicidal, and herbicidal properties. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, pesticides in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips, and resources for helpful links. Lots overgrown with weeds may harbor harmful insects or rodents that can spread diseases; weeds also produce seeds that can infest neighboring lawns and fields. Herbicides contain poisons formulated to kill specific types of plants. These products are poisonous and can cause harm to humans as well. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: 2,4-D (phenoxy herbicides), Diquat dibromide (organonitrogen herbicide), Glyphosate (Roundup), Methyl bromide, (bromomethane), Paraquat (organonitrogen herbicide). (These are just a few of the herbicides available for residential and commercial use.) SUBSTITUTES: If personnel are available, hoeing is a practical, effective way of removing weed growth. Mulching suppresses new weeds. Mechanical cultivation also controls weeds. Apply less-toxic controls such as vinegar, alcohol, or boiling water. Or use borates (boric acid), made from low-toxicity mineral salt with insecticidal, fungicidal, and herbicidal properties. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products, pesticides in tips for your agency for usage and waste prevention tips, and resources for helpful links. If not applied properly, chemical fertilizers can be dangerous to humans, animals, and even to the plants they are meant to feed. Some commercial fertilizers contain dioxins and heavy metals from waste products used in the formulation. CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Arsenic, Cadmium, Chromium, Dioxin, Lead, Mercury, Chemical nitrogen SUBSTITUTES: Use fertilizers made from animal by-products, such as dried blood, blood meal, or bone meal. Or use certified organic fertilizers or composts/manures/blended fertilizers, such as seaweed, guano, earthworm castings, and activated manure or compost extracts. ALSO SEE list of vendors for alternative products and services, and resources for helpful links.
|  |
Reducing Workplace Toxics
|
|
|
|