Environmental Health & Safety

What are common chemicals of exposure in the home or office?

Whether indoors or out, in the city or in the country, the mountains or the desert, all of us are continually exposed to chemicals. Both natural and synthetic, chemicals are a part of our lives. Most of us are unaware of our dependence upon chemicals and how much we often use them to make our lives easier. Whether or not MCS is a "real illness," the discussion about MCS suggests there may be a concern in our society. We use and depend on chemicals; often we overuse chemicals and ignore the impacts from using these chemicals. At home, at work, in recreation, or wherever, it is important to be aware of the chemicals that are likely to be present and to take appropriate precautions to minimize the use of the chemicals we control. Below is a chart of some of the chemicals to which some people are most likely to have sensitivity.

One of the areas over which individuals have the most control is the choices for household products and cleansers. What is selected to bring into the home and to use in the home can significantly reduce the cumulative exposure to chemicals by individuals. Purchasing decisions can be based on:

The types of chemicals used in a product
Whether chemicals are synthetic or naturally occurring and individual reactions to each
The likelihood of interaction effects (especially in different cleansers in the same area of the home such as window cleaner, dust spray, floor cleaner, furniture polish, etc. in one room)
Fragrances and dyes used including "scents" that are supposed to smell clean such as synthetic lemon, pine, floral and the like.
Natural versus synthetic fabrics and materials and individual reactions to each.

Reducing multiple exposures and unnecessary exposure is important. But chemophobia is not the desired behavior either. Chemicals are not bad. Excessive use and misuse of chemicals is often the problem. For products used in the home, careful reading of the label and careful following of the instructions is necessary. Information on chemicals is available from libraries and health departments; if you are concerned about someone's health, it is always advised to see a physician. As with most environmental issues, learning about the issue starts with understanding the issue on a personal, manageable level.

Chemical	Where found	Reactions
Formaldehyde	carpet, plywood, particle board insulation, adhesives	sore throat headaches
Pesticides	bug sprays, lawn chemicals, household cleaners	skin/eye/respiratory digestive tract/nervous system
Nitrogen dioxide	unvented gas stoves/heaters Carbon monoxide gas appliances	respiratory problems headaches/dizziness
Solvents	household cleansers, paints strippers, gasoline	respiratory problems fatigue/dizziness
Latex	paints, gloves, caulking	allergic reactions
Dyes (especially dark blue)	clothing, curtain, tablecloths, napkins, rags, furniture	skin reaction

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