Throughout your building, a variety of cleaning chemicals are used daily to try and keep working spaces sanitary and clean. However, there’s a growing concern among health professionals and environmentally conscious individuals about the potential health hazards these chemicals pose.
Many of these potent cleaning agents can leave behind residues on surfaces we touch frequently. This not only allows these harsh chemicals to linger but also means they can transfer to our hands, food, and personal items, increasing our exposure to potentially harmful substances.
Unlike traditional cleaning agents, UV light disinfection provides a non-toxic, effective alternative for eradicating pathogens without the use of harsh substances. Farlite Solutions’ innovative UV light disinfection systems are non-invasive and chemical-free. Contact us to find out how you can use UV light disinfection to create a safe environment for your customers and employees.
Common Cleaning Chemicals and Their Ingredients
Cleaners often contain chemicals like ammonia, chlorine bleach, and phthalates. These components are favored for their ability to eliminate bacteria and remove stubborn stains effectively. Despite their cleaning prowess, the reliance on these chemicals raises questions about their impact on health.
- Ammonia is a powerful alkaline solution commonly found in glass and window cleaners, as well as some floor cleaning formulas. It can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, throat, and lungs if used in poorly ventilated areas or if direct contact occurs.
- Chlorine bleach is widely used as a disinfectant in bathrooms and kitchens due to its effectiveness in killing bacteria, viruses, and molds. Exposure can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and can be particularly dangerous if mixed with other cleaning agents, releasing toxic gases.
- Phthalates are chemicals used to enhance the fragrance of cleaning products, making them one of the hidden dangers in scented cleaners. They are associated with endocrine disruption, potentially affecting hormonal balance and leading to longer-term health effects.
Exposure to these chemicals can lead to immediate health issues like respiratory difficulties, skin irritations, and even chemical burns. More concerning, however, are the long-term effects. Some chemicals found in cleaning products have been linked to serious endocrine disruption and even cancer. Vulnerable groups, particularly children, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, face heightened risks.
Regulations and Safety Measures
While regulations exist to oversee the use of chemicals in cleaning products, there’s an ongoing debate about their sufficiency. Government bodies and health organizations play a crucial role in safeguarding consumers through labeling laws and safety guidelines.
However, there’s a pressing need for stronger safety measures and greater transparency from manufacturers regarding their products’ ingredients. These regulations often have loopholes that manufacturers can exploit, allowing them to withhold full disclosure of all ingredients in their products.
For instance, proprietary laws regarding fragrances enable companies to classify certain chemicals as trade secrets, thereby exempting them from listing these potentially harmful ingredients on their product labels.
Non-Toxic and Chemical-Free – UV Light Disinfection
The health hazards associated with common cleaning chemicals underscore the importance of staying informed and considering safer alternatives. UV light disinfection is an excellent option, offering effective pathogen destruction without the risks linked to chemical cleaners.
UV light disinfection functions by using ultraviolet light to dismantle the DNA or RNA of bacteria and viruses, making them unable to reproduce or cause infection. This eliminates pathogens without requiring harsh chemicals or direct contact, guaranteeing a safe and eco-friendly disinfection approach.
Farlite Solutions leads the way in UV light disinfection systems for commercial indoor spaces of all sizes. Our advanced systems guarantee effective disinfection, prioritizing both your health and convenience. Contact us today for a custom quote for your space.