OccuSafe Industrial Hygiene Consulting

Cleaning agents and disinfectants are used in a broad range of occupational settings to remove dirt, carbon, and other materials from parts, products, and working surfaces. Irritation is the most frequent hazard. Cleaning agents may cause acute effects or injuries, such as respiratory irritation and chemical burns on skin and eyes. Several chemicals in cleaning agents are known contact allergens, such as fragrances, preservatives, and disinfectants, and these chemicals have a potential to cause allergic contact dermatitis. Other products have inhalation hazards.

Some of these materials have been shown to have very toxic effects or be detrimental to the environment and have been banned or removed from use. Carbon tetrachloride was widely used and caused serious health effects. Since 1970, it has been strictly regulated by OSHA, NIOSH, the FDA and EPA. Other chlorinated solvents such as methylene chloride, trichloroethylene, 111 trichloroethane, and perchloroethylene were used in vapor degreasers and dry cleaning but because of effects to the environment their use has mostly been discontinued.

There are many types of cleaners and they can have different health effects. Here are some examples:

• Soaps and detergents can cause irritation to the skin. Inhalation of soap products may cause allergic reactions in sensitized people.
• Bleach and chlorine products are oxidizers and are corrosive. Exposures can cause irritation, or damage  to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Vapors can cause serious discomfort or even acute distress requiring medical attention.
• Solvent based cleaners such as alcohol, mineral spirts, and methyl ethyl ketone may cause redness, irritation, and dry skin. Spray mists irritate the respiratory system and can cause coughing and difficulties in breathing. In high concentrations, vapors and aerosol mists have a narcotic effect and may cause headache, fatigue, dizziness and nausea.
• Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs) a type of chemical used to kill bacteria, viruses, and mold. They have significant health effects when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. They may cause allergic skin reactions and respiratory distress to sensitized individuals.
• Citrus cleaners have been used as a substitute for solvents because of their low toxicity.  However, they can cause eye and skin irritation and may cause allergic skin reaction to sensitized individuals.

When using cleaning chemicals the following steps should be taken:

• Check safety data sheets and other available materials to determine the ingredients present and what controls and work practices are recommended. OSHA, NIOSH, and the ACGIH provide information and have exposure limits for many of the components of industrial cleaners.
• Use ventilation when handling commercial and industrial cleaning chemicals. Open windows and use portable fans to ventilate the air.
• Workers should use eye protection and protective clothing when working with  irritating or corrosive products. Use respiratory protection for inhalation hazards.
• Make sure that all containers are labeled have proper warning hazards.
• Store cleaning chemicals in specified locations.

Most industries use some type of chemical cleaning agent. It is important that managers and employees determine the hazards of the cleaners and use the necessary controls to prevent adverse health effects.