Welcome to the final part of chemical Rehab.
Some of you may find this article a bit dry, sorry! Can’t make distressing facts sound uplifting.
Most people are relatively clueless when it comes to the toxic chemicals that are in their homes. They do not think of them as potentially dangerous and or possibly life threatening. One can generally avoid most of these problems by throwing away all commercial cleaners and replacing them with ones purchased from safe companies.
Releases From Improper Chemical Mixing, Hazardous Substances Emergency Events Surveillance System, 1996–2001 Reported the following:
Improper mixing events were more common in household use & among other end-users (such as janitorial and maid staff) than in manufacturing and industrial settings.
Despite warnings displayed in black and white on many bottles, the dangerous mixing of chemicals is not uncommon in the United States. Often, toxic fumes are formed when cleaning products are mixed together or two or more products are used at the same time. Air emissions accounted for the vast majority of improper mixing release types.
Household bleach and ammonia are two of the most common cleaning agents, and combining them releases highly toxic and corrosive chlorine (mono- and dichloramine) gas. Chlorine gas also is released if bleach is mixed with an acid-containing toilet bowl or drain cleaner, and when pool chemicals are diluted by a small quantity of water or are improperly mixed with other chemicals or reactive materials.
The physical effects of chlorine depend on the amount of chlorine and duration of exposure. Low concentration can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Exposure to high levels can cause corrosive damage to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tissues and lead to pulmonary edema and even death in extreme cases. Horton et al. found that the most commonly reported injuries resulting from release of chlorine gas were respiratory irritation and eye irritation.
Use the following safe methods when handling household chemicals:
1.Use the least toxic product you can find, do some homework, your family is worth it; don’t just pick up any cleaning product and use it!
2.Read and follow directions on labels, better yet understand what is in the product you are purchasing.
3.Wear gloves and protective clothing if product is harmful when in contact with the skin.
4.Wear goggles if product can harm the eyes; you are not tearing because of allergies!
5.Do not wear contact lenses when working with solvents.
6.Stop using the product if you become dizzy, sick to your stomach or develop a headache.
7.It’s bad enough to smoke none the less smoke when you are using household chemicals.
8.Avoid mixing household products.
Last but not least, seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you have been poisoned or injured due to exposure to a household chemical.
Make a conscious effort to find out how and where to get safer products that are better for you, your family and the environment, see resources at the end for further information.
Dr Iman Ashour is a 30 year old stay at home wife. As a medical professional and a member of the Fourpoint group, her goal is the education of family members on applying healthier life styles. As a wellness/business specialist she helps people build a solid , ethical and viable home business.
email: dr_halifaxhealth@yahoo.com
phone: 1-888-210-8176
website: http://www.meetmybiz.net/?ref=eashoor