Bleach is a commonly used ingredient in many household cleaning products, known for its strong corrosive properties and high toxicity. In commercial settings, it can cause damage to carpets and pose risks to occupants. When combined with other cleaning agents, bleach can become even more hazardous, releasing toxic fumes that can lead to serious health concerns if inhaled. Its ability to eliminate bacteria is a key reason for its widespread use in cleaning products. However, today most professional janitorial services have found more safe and environmentally friendly alternatives to bleach.
Bleach contains harmful chemicals that can easily cause second-degree chemical burns if used in a concentrated form. Diluting the product with water can significantly reduce its hazardous nature. When bleach is mixed with ammonia or other cleaning products, it can result in harmful effects such as:
It is crucial not to underestimate the dangers of using bleach and to ensure that it is kept out of reach of children. Despite its harmful effects, bleach is still commonly used in many commercial settings for cleaning purposes. This emphasizes the need for preventive measures. Implementing the simple preventative measures mentioned below can help prevent potentially fatal accidents from occurring.It is crucial not to underestimate the dangers of using bleach and to ensure that it is kept out of reach of children. Despite its harmful effects, bleach is still commonly used in many commercial settings for cleaning purposes. This emphasizes the need for preventive measures. Implementing the simple preventative measures mentioned below can help prevent potentially fatal accidents from occurring.
- Educate yourself: It is crucial to have a thorough understanding of the products you are using to prevent accidents. Knowing the dos and don'ts of the product is essential to ensure safety.
- Explore alternative options: While bleach is commonly used for cleaning, there are other products that can serve the same purpose. For instance, hydrogen peroxide can be used to clean kitchens, disinfect cutting boards, and even act as a natural teeth whitener.
- Minimize contact: When handling bleach for cleaning, it is important to avoid direct contact with the chemical. Swallowing is extremely dangerous, and any contact with eyes, mouth, or skin should prompt an immediate call to poison control.
- Respect the labels: The labels on cleaning products contain vital information about the chemicals they contain. Removing labels should be avoided, and safety instructions should always be followed.
- Keep out of reach: To prevent accidents, store cleaning products in secure cabinets that are inaccessible to children when not in use.
In a nutshell, bleach needs to be on the “banned list” of chemicals that a Facility Manager does not want inside their building. Today there are a number of bleach alternatives that clean and fight germs all while being environmentally friendly.
At Stathakis, an ISSA CIMS-GB certified janitorial company, we never use bleach or any such hazardous material for cleaning and janitorial services or housekeeping services. Reason being, is that we provide safe services to our customers.
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