The Toxic House

[Guest guest]

THE TOXIC HOUSE

http://www.cbc.ca/natureofthings/toxic_printable.html

 

An interactive version is at:

http://www.cbc.ca/natureofthings/toxic_flash/toxic_house_flash.html

 

Welcome to The Nature of Things Toxic House. This is a site about the

hazards of indoor pollution, largely created by the synthetic and

organic chemicals that are a part of our daily lives. It might sound

like a place you want to stay away from, but really it's a place

intended to help you make informed decisions about the places and spaces

in which you live. We can't live without chemicals, and in many ways

they help to improve our lives. However, as environmental engineer Dr.

Richard Corsi points out, some chemicals are better than others, and we

can make educated choices about their risks versus their benefits.

 

As you'll see, there are potentially harmful substances at every turn,

but it's important to stress that most of us are only ever exposed to

very low levels of toxic compounds in our own homes. Therefore contact

with the odd chemical trace might not be so bad, but as scientists are

discovering, it's exposure to traces of many different chemicals over a

lifetime that may be cause for concern. And, it is becoming increasingly

evident that children are most at risk, as the chemical burden in their

bodies could well affect their growth and development. The long-term

impact of chemicals in our everyday lives is yet to be fully understood,

but we hope that this site prompts you to evaluate your indoor

environment and to seek out more information.

 

KITCHEN

 

CUPBOARD - CLEANING PRODUCTS

 

Overview:

Household cleaners can be irritating, toxic, and sometimes carcinogenic.

Vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda are good alternatives.

 

Problems:

Cleaning products comes in all shapes and sizes and most of them contain

one or more chemicals that are harmful. A few to be on the look out for:

sodium hypochlorite, used in chlorine bleach, can cause lung and eye

irritation. Formaldehyde, a preservative in many household products, is

a suspected human carcinogen and is a strong irritant to eyes, throat,

skin and lungs. Spot removers and carpet cleaners can contain

perchloroethylene, an animal carcinogen and suspected human carcinogen.

Phenol and cresol, found in disinfectants have been linked to diarrhea,

fainting, and kidney and liver damage. Long-term exposure to certain

metal polishes can cause damage to the nervous system, skin, kidneys and

eyes.

 

Solutions:

Less toxic alternatives can be found at organic foods stores, and even

some conventional stores. Citrus-based cleaners are very effective as

well as environmentally friendly. Made with orange peels, these products

are nontoxic, petroleum-free, and biodegradable. Natural acids such as

vinegar and lemon juice are good at cutting grease, and when mixed with

water, ordinary baking soda can usually do the same job as a commercial

can of cleanser or all-purpose spray - without leaving harmful chemicals

behind.

 

FOOD - PESTICIDES

 

Overview:

Trace residues of pesticides are routinely found on fruits and

vegetables. Buying organic produce is the best way to reduce pesticide

intake.

 

Problems:

Pesticides are assessed for safety by Health Canada's Pest Management

Regulatory Agency, and pesticide levels on foods are monitored by the

Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Pesticide residue on food could pose a

risk to your health. Most pesticide standards are based on the

assumption of exposure to one pesticide at a time. There is little

information available on exposure to multiple pesticides or on the

cumulative effects of low levels of pesticides over a lifetime. Children

are most at risk of ingesting concentrated pesticide residues because

they tend to eat a much less varied diet than adults. They are

particularly vulnerable because childhood is a period of critical organ

development and rapid growth.

 

Solutions:

Organic produce is the safest bet, but often expensive, or not always

readily available. There are other ways to cut back on pesticides. If

you eat conventionally grown fruits and vegetables, you could reduce

your consumption of the following foods, which an American study has

shown to consistently have the largest number of trace levels of

pesticides: strawberries, bell peppers, spinach, cherries, peaches

(U.S.), cantaloupe (Mexican), celery, apples, apricots, green beans,

grapes, and cucumbers. You should also wash fruit thoroughly, especially

apples, peaches and pears. Although some pesticides concentrate closer

to the skin, they are still largely systemic, that is, they are

throughout the fruit. Therefore peeling produce is considerably less

valuable than the fibre and nutritional value that the skin of most

fruit or vegetables provides. Parents should diversify children's diets,

spreading foods out over time, giving children's immune systems a

periodic break.

 

FORMALDEHYDE - CUPBOARD

 

Overview:

Pressed wood products often contain formaldehyde, a suspected

carcinogen. Try to buy wood products that emit little formaldehyde.

 

Problems:

Formaldehyde is a colourless liquid or gas with a pungent odour. It adds

permanent-press qualities to clothing and draperies; it is a

preservative in some paints and coating products; and a component of

glues and adhesives. Exposure to formaldehyde in the home is most likely

to occur through pressed wood products that contain urea-formaldehyde

(UF) resins. Medium density fiberboard contains a higher resin-to-wood

ratio than any other UF pressed wood product, and thus may emit more

formaldehyde than similar products. Symptoms associated with exposure to

formaldehyde include eye, nose and throat irritation, skin rashes,

itching, nausea, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

 

Solutions:

Try to avoid products that contain formaldehyde, especially pressed wood

products. A new product known as " wheatboard " is a good replacement for

pressboard. It contains no formaldehyde and is currently available in

Western Canada and should be available in Eastern Canada by the end of

2002. Opt for solid wood or pressed wood products that are fully covered

with a water-repellent finish. Coating unfinished products with

water-based coating products can also reduce formaldehyde emissions.

Finishes should be applied in multiple layers and should cover all

surfaces of the product. Apply the finish in a well-ventilated area and

allow the product plenty of time to air out. Generally, increasing

ventilation after bringing new sources of formaldehyde into the home

will help reduce exposure.

 

DISHWASHER - CHLOROFORM

 

Overview:

Chloroform gas builds up when you run your dishwasher Allow dishes to

dry in the dishwasher with the door closed

 

Problems:

Chlorination is an important method of water sanitization used in most

municipalities. However, its by-product is chloroform, an invisible gas

that forms when the chlorine and organic molecules in the water mix

together. The higher the temperature of the water, the more chloroform

produced. Many dishwashing detergents also contain chlorine, which

increases the chloroform that escapes with the puff of steam when the

dishwasher door opens.

 

Solutions:

Use a non-chlorinated detergent in the dishwasher. Leave the dishwasher

door closed until the dishes are dry. Doing so without operating the

" dry " cycle will conserve energy as well. If you have to open the

dishwasher immediately after the wash cycle, try and avoid breathing the

steam as it comes out of the unit. Turning on the kitchen fan and

opening windows also helps steam to travel out of your breathing zone.

 

STOVE - GAS EMISSIONS

 

Overview:

Unvented combustion sources can emit carbon monoxide and nitrogen

dioxide. Make sure your gas stove has a vent that exits to the outdoors.

 

Problems:

Any unvented combustion source - gas stoves, kerosene heaters, charcoal

grills used inside - can release toxic gases inside your home. Carbon

monoxide interferes with the delivery of oxygen throughout the body.

Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, confusion, and

disorientation, and fatigue in healthy people. Individuals with chronic

heart disease should be particularly mindful. Nitrogen dioxide can

irritate the mucous membranes in the eye, nose, and throat and causes

shortness of breath after exposure to high concentrations. There is

evidence that high concentrations or continued exposure to low levels of

nitrogen dioxide increases the risk of respiratory infection.

 

Solutions:

Gas cook stoves should always have a vent. All natural gas appliances

should be regularly inspected and well maintained to ensure proper

function. Between inspections, make sure that the external openings of

all exhaust vents are not blocked by insulation, leaves, or other

debris. Maintain good air supply and ventilation for your fuel-burning

equipment. Never use a charcoal or gas barbecue inside your home. A

carbon monoxide detector is a must in any household. It too should

properly located, installed, tested, and maintained.

 

VINYL FLOORING - PHTHALATES

 

Overview:

Phthalates can affect the reproductive tract of male fetuses.

Phthalate-free alternatives are available.

 

Problems:

Phthalates are chemical compounds that help give plastic products their

flexibility and soft texture. These " plasticizers " are used extensively

in the manufacture of products that range from children's toys to

plastic wrap to medical devices in hospitals. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

flooring can sometimes emit small amounts of phthalates into the

surrounding air, along with other toxic additives. Phthalates can be

absorbed through the skin, inhaled as fumes, ingested when they

contaminate food or when children bite or suck on toys.

 

Solutions:

There are competitively priced alternatives to vinyl flooring available.

Ceramic, marble or stone tiles, or wood can be used if a harder surface

is desired. Cork flooring is softer, but avoid cork that is sealed with

artificial resins. Linoleum, which is often confused for vinyl flooring,

is made of renewable materials and has good durability. Try and prevent

your child from chewing on plastic toys; better yet, buy natural fibre

toys. Toys manufactured in Canada, the US and Europe are usually

phthalate-free. Store food in glass or ceramic containers, especially

fatty foods like meat, cheese, and butter. If you must use plastic wrap,

leave a gap between the food and the wrap. Avoid re-using margarine or

yogurt tubs. If you use plastic cookware or containers, look for

polyethylene plastic, which does not contain plasticizers.

 

BLINDS - LEAD

 

Overview:

Lead is a harmful pollutant and poses a serious threat to children's

health. Remove old vinyl blinds that may be imported from Mexico or Asia.

 

Problems:

Vinyl blinds deteriorate through prolonged exposure to direct sunlight,

causing lead to leech out and join other dust particles, which can be

inhaled or ingested. Lead can also be ingested by chewing on the blinds,

something children and pets might easily do. Lead affects practically

all systems within the body, and over the long-term, it can accumulate

in the body's bloodstream, organs and bones. Lower levels of lead can

cause adverse health effects on the central nervous system, kidney, and

blood cells. Blood lead levels as low as 10 micrograms per decilitre can

impair mental and physical development, particularly in children.

 

Solutions:

Health Canada issued warnings about lead in imported vinyl blinds

starting in 1996. However, existing blinds in your home may predate this

advisory. If you suspect that your vinyl blinds are imported, you can

buy home kits that test for lead. Permanently remove the blinds and

replace them if possible. Keep small children and pets away from the

blinds. Keep cribs and furniture away from the blinds. Get blood tests

for your children, even if they appear to be healthy. Wash children's'

hands, bottles, pacifiers, and toys often. Eat a balanced diet, rich in

calcium and iron, which can help prevent a buildup of lead deposits in

the digestive tract, brain, bones and kidneys.

 

BATHROOM

 

SHOWER - CHLOROFORM

 

Overview:

Long, hot showers increase exposure to chloroform gas. Shorter, cooler

showers mean less exposure.

 

Problems:

Chlorination is an important method of water sanitization used in most

municipalities. However, its by-product is chloroform, an invisible gas

that forms when the chlorine and organic molecules in the water mix

together. The higher the temperature of the water, the more chloroform

produced.

 

Solutions:

Install water flow restrictors in shower heads, reduce the temperature

of the shower water, and cut down your showering time. Open the windows,

or turn on the exhaust fan whenever hot water is used for showering,

bathing, washing dishes or clothes, and indoor spas.

 

CUPBOARD - CLEANING PRODUCTS

 

Overview:

Household cleaners can be irritating, toxic, and sometimes carcinogenic.

Vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda are good alternatives.

 

Problems:

Cleaning products comes in all shapes and sizes and most of them contain

one or more chemicals that are harmful. A few to be on the look out for:

sodium hypochlorite, used in chlorine bleach, can cause lung and eye

irritation. Formaldehyde, a preservative in many household products, is

a suspected human carcinogen and is a strong irritant to eyes, throat,

skin and lungs. Spot removers and carpet cleaners can contain

perchloroethylene, an animal carcinogen and suspected human carcinogen.

Phenol and cresol, found in disinfectants have been linked to diarrhea,

fainting, and kidney and liver damage. Long-term exposure to certain

metal polishes can cause damage to the nervous system, skin, kidneys and

eyes.

 

Solutions:

Less toxic alternatives can be found at organic foods stores, and even

some conventional stores. Citrus-based cleaners are very effective as

well as environmentally friendly. Made with orange peels, these products

are nontoxic, petroleum-free, and biodegradable. Natural acids such as

vinegar and lemon juice are good at cutting grease, and when mixed with

water, ordinary baking soda can usually do the same job as a commercial

can of cleanser or all-purpose spray - without leaving harmful chemicals

behind.

 

AIR FRESHENERS

 

Overview:

Air fresheners don't freshen the air, they just counteract one smell

with another. Open a window or use exhaust fans - or both - to clear the

air.

 

Problems:

Air fresheners work in one of the following ways: they might contain

nerve-deadening agents which interfere with your ability to smell; they

could coat your nasal passages with an undetectable oil film; they often

cover up one smell with another; but they rarely break down the

offensive odour. Air freshener is a misnomer - these products do little

to " freshen " the air. Aerosol fresheners can be harmful to the lungs if

inhaled in high concentrations or for prolonged periods of time. Solid

fresheners may be poisonous if eaten by children or pets.

 

Solutions:

Many products found in the home have a longer lasting effect than air

fresheners. Putting sachets of fresh or dried herbal bouquets in

different rooms, or even soaking a cotton ball in pure vanilla and

waving it around does the trick. Simmer cinnamon and cloves on the oven

to get rid of cooking smells. Open windows and ventilate the air

whenever possible.

 

VANITY - PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS

 

Overview:

Personal care products contain chemicals which can be harmful. Shop for

products that are chemical free or hypo-allergenic.

 

Problems:

Products like nail polish remover usually have strong smells associated

with them, which is the first sign of a potentially harmful chemical at

work. Acetone and ethyl acetate are the culprits in this case, and can

cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, and can irritate the

lungs if ingested. Toluene is an aromatic hydrocarbon and shows up in

some nail polishes, but also in industrial paints and varnishes. It can

irritate the skin and the respiratory tract and cause liver damage.

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) has been shown to be a potent reproductive and

developmental toxin, particularly for males. It is a useful additive in

many cosmetics because it has useful properties. It imparts flexibility

in mascara and nail polish, its oily texture gives skin a soft feel and

helps lotions penetrate the skin.

 

Solutions:

Familiarize yourself with the terminology. Although ingredient labels on

cosmetics are often difficult to read, it's valuable to know that a

" plasticizer " and " butyl ester " are the same things as dibutyl

phthalate. Other common forms of phthalates are diethyl phthalate, and

dimethyl phthalate. Women who are pregnant, nursing or thinking about

getting pregnant should avoid all personal care products with any of

these words on the label. There are products on the market that are

largely free of synthetic chemicals.

 

RUBBER DUCK - PHTHALATES

 

Overview:

Phthalates can affect the reproductive tract of male fetuses.

Phthalate-free alternatives are available.

 

Problems:

Phthalates are chemical compounds that help give plastic products their

flexibility and soft texture. These " plasticizers " are used extensively

in the manufacture of products that range from children's toys to

plastic wrap to medical devices in hospitals. Phthalates can be absorbed

through the skin, inhaled as fumes, ingested when they contaminate food

or when children bite or suck on toys. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flooring

can sometimes emit small amounts of phthalates into the surrounding air,

along with other toxic additives.

 

Solutions:

Try and prevent your child from chewing on plastic toys; better yet, buy

natural fibre toys. Toys manufactured in Canada, the US and Europe are

usually phthalate-free. Store food in glass or ceramic containers,

especially fatty foods like meat, cheese, and butter. If you must use

plastic wrap, leave a gap between the food and the wrap. Avoid re-using

margarine or yogurt tubs. If you use plastic cookware or containers,

look for polyethylene plastic, which does not contain plasticizers.

There are competitively priced alternatives to vinyl flooring available.

Ceramic, marble or stone tiles, or wood can be used if a harder surface

is desired. Cork flooring is softer, but avoid cork that is sealed with

artificial resins. Linoleum, which is often confused for vinyl flooring,

is made of renewable materials and has good durability.

 

LIVING ROOM

 

CARPET - DUST

 

Overview:

Carpets are reservoirs for mold, dust and other allergens. Many of these

culprits stay outside if shoes are removed at the door.

 

Problems:

For small children, house dust is a major source of exposure to cadmium,

lead and other heavy metals, as well as polychlorinated biphenyls and

other persistent organic pollutants. Despite regular vacuuming, dust and

other toxic compounds easily accumulate in rugs. Plush and shag

carpeting in particular provide sticky fibres where dust can settle.

 

Solutions:

Investing in a good doormat will help prevent the tracking of dirt

inside the home. Better yet, insist that all family members and visitors

take off shoes at the door. Floors covered with wood, tile or linoleum

are the best, and the easiest to clean. If you do have extensive

carpeting, use an effective vacuum cleaner, one with a power head. A

dirt-finder vacuum (which has a light that turns from red to green when

the carpet is clean) is even better.

 

FIREPLACE - WOODSMOKE

 

Overview:

Woodsmoke generates hundreds of toxic compounds and many carcinogens.

Have air-handling systems inspected regularly.

 

Problems:

Operating fireplaces with unbalanced air flows can cause combustion

pollutants from vented appliances to spill into the house. This spillage

can produce very high levels of indoor pollutants. Wood smoke is made up

of several elements that can be damaging to your health. Tiny particles

(particulate matter - PM10) that are less than 10 microns in diameter

can become embedded in your lungs. Inhalation of PM10 causes coughing,

irritation and permanent scarring and damage to the lungs. It

contributes to cancer, heart disease and changes in DNA leading to

autoimmune disease. Woodsmoke also contains a group of compounds known

as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which include many Class A

carcinogens, the most carcinogenic materials known to exist.

 

Solutions:

If possible, replace your woodburning appliance with a properly vented

electric or gas fireplace or a vented gas heater. Do not use leaking or

malfunctioning woodburning appliances. If you do burn wood make sure it

is clean - never burn wood that has paint or coating on it. Have your

woodstoves and fireplaces inspected each year. Check them for

backdrafting and spillage. These steps will greatly reduce indoor

pollution from woodsmoke. Have all air-handling systems including

furnaces, flues and chimneys, inspected regularly.

 

CANDLE - LEAD WICKS

 

Overview:

Candles with lead wicks emit lead into the air. Use other lighting

sources whenever possible.

 

Problems: Some candles contain dangerously high amounts of lead. The

lead is found in the core wick, a metal piece inserted into the candles

to support the wick as it is being burned, providing an even and slower

burn rate. Votives, pillars and tea lights, scented candles and candles

that produce puddles of wax are more likely to contain a lead core than

other types. Lead is a serious poison that has been linked with

behavioural and learning problems in children, and can accumulate in the

body's bloodstream and organs.

 

Solutions:

Not all candles are made with wicks that have metallic cores. Studies

have shown that metal cores in Chinese candles to be made of either pure

lead or lead alloy, while those made in the U.S. or Mexico consisted of

zinc or lead-containing alloys. Leaded candles have recently been banned

in the Australia and in the United States. They are still available for

sale in Canada although the federal government has urged the Canadian

candle industry to stop manufacturing and importing candles with lead

core wicks. Look for candles that are labeled lead-free.

 

WINDOW FRAME - LEAD

 

Overview:

Lead is a harmful pollutant and poses a serious threat to children's

health. Leave lead-based paint undisturbed if it is in good condition.

 

Problems:

Lead affects practically all systems within the body. Lead at high

levels (lead levels at or above 80 micrograms per decilitre of blood)

can cause convulsions, coma, and even death. Lower levels of lead can

cause adverse health effects on the central nervous system, kidney, and

blood cells. Blood lead levels as low as 10 micrograms per decilitre can

impair mental and physical development, particularly in children. Lead

also accumulates in the body's bloodstream and organs.

 

Solutions:

Keep areas where children play as dust-free and clean as possible. Don't

use antique cribs and toys as their paint work probably contains lead.

Do not remove lead paint yourself. Do not bring lead dust into the home.

If your work or hobby involves lead, change clothes and use doormats

before entering your home. Eat a balanced diet, rich in calcium and

iron, which can help prevent a buildup of lead deposits in the digestive

tract, brain, bones and kidneys. Note that all paint should be kept in

good condition since it can contain other chemicals like mercury and

cadmium.

 

PESTS - PESTICIDES

 

Overview:

Many households store at least one chemical pesticide in the house. Most

basic pest problems can be dealt with through prevention.

 

Problems:

Pesticides are poisons that can be inhaled, that can linger on surfaces,

or make their way into mouths. Organophosphates, which are a key

ingredient in insecticides, can affect the nervous system; cause

headaches, dizziness, twitching, and nausea. These chemicals can also be

found in most pet products like flea collars and powder. Rodenticides

pose a particular risk for accidental poisoning of humans and pets

because of their proximity to our everyday environments.

 

Solutions:

Deny pests their basic needs for air, moisture, food, and shelter by

getting rid of their original supply. Fix water sources like leaky

plumbing. Remove or block off indoor pest hiding places. Caulk cracks

and crevices to control pest access. Avoid storing newspapers, paper

bags, and boxes for long periods of time. Block pest entry ways by

installing screens on floor drains, windows, and doors to discourage

crawling and flying pests from entering your home. Remove food by using

well-sealed food and waste containers. Use herbal flea collars for your

pets, or use simple measures like regularly washing and brushing them.

 

BASEMENT

 

IMPROPER STORAGE - VOCs

 

Overview:

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can escape from bottle and cans. Store

closed containers away from your living space in a shed or garage.

 

Problems:

Organic chemicals are widely used in common household products, as well

as in paints and varnishes. These products can release organic compounds

(VOCs) in small amounts, even when sealed and stored. Even the rags and

brushes used to apply the products should be stored or disposed of

safely. Their impact on our health depends on how VOCs interact with

their environment: they can be exchanged to the outdoor air, which is a

good thing. They can stick to or be absorbed by indoor materials such as

carpeting or even the surface of fruit. These VOCs can then be

re-emitted by the contaminated material, which means that toxic

compounds can be in your immediate environment for months or years.

Symptoms associated with VOCs are eye, nose, and throat irritation;

headaches, loss of coordination, nausea; damage to liver, kidney, and

central nervous system. Some organics can cause cancer in animals; some

are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans.

 

Solutions:

Solvents, paints and household products should be sealed and stored in a

well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. If the product is

flammable or an aerosol, it should also be stored away from heat, flames

or sources of ignition. The best way to dispose of solvents is to use

them up as intended. Otherwise, solvents and similar products should be

secured and stored for professional hazardous waste collection, or taken

to a hazardous waste site.

 

WALLS - RADON

 

Overview:

Radon is a colourless, odourless, radioactive gas that may be harmful.

Detection kits are easily available for preliminary testing.

 

Problems:

Radon gas occurs naturally in the environment. It forms during the

natural decay of uranium, and can be found in high concentrations where

soils and rock contain uranium, granite, shale or phosphate. Studies

have shown that long term exposure to low levels of the gas can cause

lung damage and lung cancer. It can build up in your basement. Lung

cancer has been associated with radon gas.

 

Solutions:

No two houses are alike when it comes to radon. Elimination of the gas

depends on the source. Among the steps that can be taken to lower radon

levels are: renovations to existing basement floors, particularly earth

floors, sealing cracks and openings, and sub-floor ventilation of

basement floors. Certified analysts should be consulted if radon is

suspected.

 

PAINT - LEAD

 

Overview:

Lead is a harmful pollutant and poses a serious threat to children's

health. Leave lead-based paint undisturbed if it is in good condition.

 

Problems:

Lead affects practically all systems within the body. Lead at high

levels (lead levels at or above 80 micrograms per decilitre of blood)

can cause convulsions, coma, and even death. Lower levels of lead can

cause adverse health effects on the central nervous system, kidney, and

blood cells. Blood lead levels as low as 10 micrograms per decilitre can

impair mental and physical development, particularly in children. Lead

also accumulates in the body's bloodstream and organs.

 

Solutions:

Keep areas where children play as dust-free and clean as possible. Don't

use antique cribs and toys as their paint work probably contains lead.

Do not remove lead paint yourself. Do not bring lead dust into the home.

If your work or hobby involves lead, change clothes and use doormats

before entering your home. Eat a balanced diet, rich in calcium and

iron, which can help prevent a buildup of lead deposits in the digestive

tract, brain, bones and kidneys. Note that all paint should be kept in

good condition since it can contain other chemicals like mercury and

cadmium. Acrylic paint has the lowest emissions and keep in mind that

pigment also increases emissions, therefore white paint is safest.

 

FURNACE - EMISSIONS

 

Overview:

Fuel-burning appliances are potential sources for carbon monoxide.Make

sure appliances like your furnace are well maintained.

 

Problems:

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a by-product of the incomplete burning of fuels,

including natural gas, wood, heating oil, propane, kerosene, gasoline,

diesel fuel, coal and charcoal. Some potential CO sources include

natural gas heating systems and appliances that are not properly

maintained; an inadequate fresh air supply for the safe burning and

venting of exhausts; a blocked chimney or flue. Carbon monoxide is

odourless, colourless, tasteless and very toxic, and interferes with the

delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Symptoms of poisoning include

headaches, dizziness, weakness, nausea, confusion, and disorientation,

and fatigue in healthy people. Individuals with chronic heart disease

should be particularly mindful.

 

Solutions:

A natural gas furnace, water heater or other equipment that is properly

installed and regularly maintained should not release carbon monoxide

into your home. But all natural gas appliances should be regularly

inspected and well maintained to ensure proper function. Between

inspections, make sure that the external openings of all exhaust vents

are not blocked by insulation, leaves, or other debris. Maintain good

air supply and ventilation for your fuel-burning equipment. A carbon

monoxide detector is a must in any household. It should properly

located, installed, tested, and maintained.

 

BEDROOM

 

CARPET - DUST

 

Overview:

Carpets are reservoirs for mold, dust and other allergens. Many of these

culprits stay outside if shoes are removed at the door.

 

Problems:

For small children, house dust is a major source of exposure to cadmium,

lead and other heavy metals, as well as polychlorinated biphenyls and

other persistent organic pollutants. Despite regular vacuuming, dust and

other toxic compounds easily accumulate in rugs. Plush and shag

carpeting in particular provide sticky fibers where dust can settle.

 

Solutions:

Investing in a good doormat will help prevent the tracking of dirt.

Better yet, insist that all family members and visitors take off shoes

at the door. Floors covered with wood, tile or linoleum are the best,

and the easiest to clean. If you do have extensive carpeting, use an

effective vacuum cleaner, one with a power head. A dirt-finder vacuum

(which has a light that turns from red to green when the carpet is

clean) is even better.

 

DRESSER - FORMALDEHYDE

 

Overview:

Pressed wood products often contain formaldehyde, a suspected

carcinogen. Try to buy wood products that emit little formaldehyde.

 

Problems:

Formaldehyde is a colourless liquid or gas with a pungent odour. It adds

permanent-press qualities to clothing and draperies; it is a

preservative in some paints and coating products; and a component of

glues and adhesives. Exposure to formaldehyde in the home is most likely

to occur through pressed wood products that contain urea-formaldehyde

(UF) resins. Medium density fiberboard contains a higher resin-to-wood

ratio than any other UF pressed wood product, and thus may emit more

formaldehyde than similar products. Symptoms associated with exposure to

formaldehyde include eye, nose and throat irritation, skin rashes,

itching, nausea, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

 

Solutions:

Try to avoid products that contain formaldehyde, especially pressed wood

products. A new product known as " wheatboard " is a good replacement for

pressboard. It contains no formaldehyde and is currently available in

Western Canada and should be available in Eastern Canada by the end of

2002. Opt for solid wood or pressed wood products that are fully covered

with a water-repellent finish. Coating unfinished products with

water-based coating products can also reduce formaldehyde emissions.

Finishes should be applied in multiple layers and should cover all

surfaces of the product. Apply the finish in a well-ventilated area and

allow the product plenty of time to air out. Generally, increasing

ventilation after bringing new sources of formaldehyde into the home

will help reduce exposure.

 

INCENSE

 

Overview:

Burning incense can expose you to fine particulate matter. Freshen the

air by using natural sources like flowers or herbs.

 

Problems:

Burning incense, like any combustion process, emits fine particulate

matter in large quantities, which can settle in the respiratory tract.

It has also been shown to elevate airborne concentrations of carbon

monoxide and benzene.

 

Solutions:

Ventilate the air if you burn incense.

 

CLOSET - DRYCLEANING

 

Overview:

Traces of a number of potent toxic chemicals cling to dry cleaned

clothing. Take dry cleaned clothes out of the plastic bags to air them out.

 

Problems:

Most dry cleaners rely on a chemical solvent called perchloroethylene,

or " perc " . The fumes of this chemical are carcinogenic and acutely

toxic. Perc has been shown to have harmful effects on the nervous system

and all major organs. Residue from freshly cleaned clothes can cause

throat, eye and nose irritation. Lower levels, like those found in a

closet containing dry-cleaned clothes, can produce disorientation,

nausea, dizziness and sleepiness. Other chemicals used in the dry

cleaning process include trichloroethane, benzene and toluene, which

also pose a range of short term and long term health risks.

 

Solutions:

Take clothing out of the plastic bags, and allow them to sufficiently

air out in a well-ventilated area. Hang them outside. Many fabrics that

say " dry clean only " don't require it. Manufacturers often put it on the

label to prevent liability - they must accept the return if a garment

shrinks or loses its shape. Dry cleaning is the only guaranteed method

of cleaning that prevents this. In many cases, you can safely handwash

" dry clean only " items (silk and rayon tend to wash well, wool does not)

using rules that apply to most delicate clothing. Another option is to

seek out " wet cleaners " . The professional process uses steam and mild

soaps instead of toxic solvents.

 

CLOSET - MOTHBALLS

 

Overview:

Mothballs are classified as a pesticide, and are poisonous when eaten.

Mothballs contain either 100% of either naphthalene or

paradichlorobenzene. Both of these ingredients can produce harmful

effects when inhaled. Irritation to nose, throat, and lungs, headache,

confusion, and liver and kidney damage can result from extended exposure

to mothball vapours.

 

Solutions:

Store all woolens, fur and feather items in airtight boxes or chest.

Cleaning clothes before storage will destroy the moth larvae that feed

on clothes. Airing clothes out in the sunshine may also help. Although

they are a popular alternative, cedar chips or sachets do very little to

repel moths.

 

CRIB - PHTHALATES

 

Overview:

Phthalates can affect the reproductive tract of male fetuses.

Phthalate-free alternatives are available.

 

Problems:

Phthalates are chemical compounds that help give plastic products their

flexibility and soft texture. These " plasticizers " are used extensively

in the manufacture of products that range from children's toys to

plastic wrap to medical devices in hospitals. Phthalates can be absorbed

through the skin, inhaled as fumes, ingested when they contaminate food

or when children bite or suck on toys. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flooring

can sometimes emit small amounts of phthalates into the surrounding air,

along with other toxic additives.

 

Solutions:

Try and prevent your child from chewing on plastic toys; better yet, buy

natural fibre toys. Toys manufactured in Canada, the US and Europe are

usually phthalate-free. Store food in glass or ceramic containers,

especially fatty foods like meat, cheese, and butter. If you must use

plastic wrap, leave a gap between the food and the wrap. Avoid re-using

margarine or yogurt tubs. If you use plastic cookware or containers,

look for polyethylene plastic, which does not contain plasticizers.

There are competitively priced alternatives to vinyl flooring available.

Ceramic, marble or stone tiles, or wood can be used if a harder surface

is desired. Cork flooring is softer, but avoid cork that is sealed with

artificial resins. Linoleum, which is often confused for vinyl flooring,

is made of renewable materials and has good durability.

 

COMPUTER

 

Overview:

New computers emit vapours which can irritate the eyes, nose, and

throat. Ventilate the room where your computer is kept.

 

Problems:

New computers provide ample opportunity for toxics to enter our systems.

Some vapours come from the solvents used to clean electronic parts,

others from adhesives used to glue components together. Still others

come from the plastic casing. Although they don't need any help, the fan

that keeps the processor cool pushes the toxic compounds into the air.

 

Solutions:

A brand new computer is the most toxic, but the amount of chemicals it

releases decreases fairly quickly after it is out of the box. The best

solution is to leave it in a well-ventilated room or area, out of the

reach of children, for several days.

 

ASHTRAY - ENVIRONMENTAL TOBACCO SMOKE

 

Overview:

Secondhand smoke includes a long list of harmful chemicals. No smoking

inside the house.

 

Problems:

Secondhand smoke, technically known as environmental tobacco smoke, is a

mixture of the smoke given off by the burning end of a cigarette, pipe

or cigar and the smoke exhaled from the lungs of smokers. Health effects

include eye, nose and throat irritation; headaches; lung cancer; and may

contribute to heart disease. Secondhand smoke is particularly harmful to

children - it can increase the frequency and severity of asthma

episodes, and cause a range of respiratory-related problems.

 

Solutions:

Do not smoke in your home or permit others to do so. Do not smoke if

children are present, particularly infants and toddlers. If smoking

indoors is a must, increase ventilation. Do not smoke in the car. The

high concentration of smoke in a small area substantially increases the

exposure for other passengers.

 

GARAGE

 

IMPROPER STORAGE -VOCs

 

Overview:

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can escape from bottle and cans. Store

closed containers away from your living space in a shed or garage.

 

Problems:

Organic chemicals are widely used in common household products, as well

as in paints and varnishes. These products can release organic compounds

(VOCs) in small amounts, even when sealed and stored. Even the rags and

brushes used to apply the products should be stored or disposed of

safely. Their impact on our health depends on how VOCs interact with

their environment: they can be exchanged to the outdoor air, which is a

good thing. They can stick to or be absorbed by indoor materials such as

carpeting or even the surface of fruit. These VOCs can then be

re-emitted by the contaminated material, which means that toxic

compounds can be in your immediate environment for months or years.

Symptoms associated with VOCs are eye, nose, and throat irritation;

headaches, loss of coordination, nausea; damage to liver, kidney, and

central nervous system. Some organics can cause cancer in animals; some

are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans

 

Solutions:

Solvents, paints and household products should be sealed and stored in a

well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. If the product is

flammable or an aerosol, it should also be stored away from heat, flames

or sources of ignition. The best way to dispose of solvents is to use

them up as intended. Otherwise, solvents and similar products should be

secured and stored for professional hazardous waste collection, or taken

to a hazardous waste site.

 

WEED-KILLER PUMP - PESTICIDES

 

Overview:

Pesticides pose risks for humans, pets, wildlife and entire

ecosystems.Various gardening techniques can reduce the need for pesticides.

 

Problems:

Chemicals used on lawns and gardens easily enter groundwater, streams

and rivers. Pesticide particles attach to dust and soil, which can drift

or get tracked indoors on shoes. Those same particles become easily

airborne and can be deposited great distances from where they were

originally used. Lawn and garden chemicals can cause irritation to the

eyes, nose and throat and some have been linked with behavioural

problems in children, damage to the nervous system and kidneys,

developmental and reproductive defects, and also an increased risk of

certain cancers. In addition to the active ingredient, pesticides are

also made up of so-called " inert " ingredients, and there is growing

evidence that many inerts are toxicologically and environmentally hazardous.

 

Solutions:

There are many organic alternatives to conventional pesticides on the

market and there are organic gardening methods for home gardeners. Try

to grow plant species and varieties which are well-adapted to your

climate, soil conditions, and available light levels. Plant a variety of

plant life so that no single pest can destroy your garden. To fight

slugs, create a protective border around your plants with sand, lime, or

ashes. Fennel, calendula, garlic, basil, green onions and marigolds can

be interspersed around your garden as they ward off several types of

pests. For indoor plant health, wash plants regularly with a mild soap

solution.

 

CAR - VOCS

 

Overview:

A new car smells great, but it means toxic chemicals are in the air.

Roll down your windows, and air out the car before driving.

 

Problems:

That new car smell, considered seductive and compelling by auto dealers,

indicates the presence of toxic chemicals which can linger for months.

Sitting in a new car can expose you to levels of toxic emissions many

times beyond established standards. Studies have shown that trace

amounts of the following chemicals may be emitted inside new cars:

benzene, a known human carcinogen; acetone, a mucosal irritant;

cyclohexanone, a possible human carcinogen; ethylbenzene and MIBK -

systemic toxic agents; and xylene isomers, a fetal development toxic

agent. More immediate impacts on your health are eye, nose and throat

irritation, headaches, nausea, drowsiness and fatigue, and disorientation.

 

Solutions:

To avoid some exposure to these toxic compounds, people who buy new cars

should make sure there is plenty of outside air entering the vehicle

while they drive, for at least six months after the vehicle has been

purchased. Ventilation may not always be possible or advisable in heavy

traffic due to air toxics from car exhausts. If you don't need to drive

your new car, leave it in a shaded, well-ventilated area. The heat from

the sun increases the rate at which these compounds off-gas into your

breathing zone.

 

PAINT CAN - VOCS

 

Overview:

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) can escape from bottle and cans. Store

closed containers away from your living space in a shed or garage.

 

Problems:

VOCs are released from products such as paints and solvents, aerosol

sprays, disinfectants, automotive products, and also from burning fuel.

Their impact on our health depends on how VOCs interact with their

environment: they can be exchanged to the outdoor air, which is a good

thing. They can stick to or be absorbed by indoor materials such as

carpeting or even the surface of fruit. These VOCs can then be

re-emitted by the contaminated material, which means that toxic

compounds can be in your immediate environment for months or years.

Health effects of VOCs range from minor eye, nose, and throat irritation

to headaches to damage to the liver, kidney, and central nervous system

at higher doses. Some organic compounds are known to cause cancer in

animals; some are suspected human carcinogens.

 

Solutions:

Basic steps that you can take to eliminate the build-up of VOCs include

using household products according to manufacturer's directions. Making

sure there is plenty of fresh air when using these products. Rather than

storing partially used containers, buy the product in quantities that

will be used up. If you do have old, half-full containers, they should

be disposed of safely. Household products should be kept out of reach of

children and pets. You should never mix household care products unless

directed on the label. Always use water-based products whenever possible.