After learning about the TOXNET toxicology website, I decided to use the Household Products database to learn about the potential health effects of Bleach.
The type of bleach I chose to learn more about was Ajax Cleanser with Bleach-Old Product, as it is a common household cleaning product I have used in the past. I was a relieve to learn that the overall health rating was a 1, the flammability rating was a 0, and the reactivity rating was a 0.
The acute health effects for this product were no surprise. Overexposure to the dust may cause respiratory tract irritation and direct eye contact to large amounts may cause eye irritation. It was interesting to note that no permanent eye injury is expected. Skin irritation is expected, but nothing severe. Lastly I am surprised that no hazards are expected when ingested.
One alarming thing about this product, according to the product MSDS, is that it contains a small amount of crystalline silca, which the NTP has listed as an anticipated carcinogen. The IARC has found limited significance for carcinogenicity in humans. Overall, I believe if this product is used in moderation, as directed and recommended, it seems that it would relatively safe for household use.
https://hpd.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/household/brands tbl=brands&id=3008010&query=ajax&searchas=TblBrands
My mother uses Ajax as a household cleaning product on a daily basis and it works very well. I am a little concerned that the NTP has listed this product as an anticipated carcinogen. I’d suggest to avoid this product as my mom uses Ajax every day and without wearing gloves. Thanks for the information.
ReplyDeleteI also use Ajax as a regular cleaning product and it's alarming that it contains small amount of crystalline. This product irritates my eyes and hands, knowing that it contains a carcinogen, it would be a good idea to look into a different product.
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