Chamber of Chemical Engineers (KMO) Samsun Branch President Hüseyin Baş said that improper use of cleaning materials can pose very serious risks on health.
Pointing out that cleaning chemicals, which are widely used for home cleaning and hygiene, can cause serious negative effects on human health, especially when used incorrectly and unconsciously, KMO Branch President Hüseyin Baş emphasized that exposure to chemicals can cause permanent damage to skin, respiratory and eye health. Stating that skin irritation, eczema, respiratory diseases and eye contact can lead to problems that can lead to loss of vision, Baş noted that the label instructions of cleaning materials should be followed and it is important for the environment to consider natural cleaning products.
“It can cause serious health problems”
“When cleaning chemicals come into contact with the skin, they can cause irritation, redness, itching, dryness, rashes and eczema. When inhaled as vapors or aerosols, they pose a risk for those with respiratory diseases such as asthma; they can cause shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness. Eye contact can cause severe irritation, burning, redness and visual impairment. Solvents and volatile organic compounds can have a negative effect on the nervous system, causing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and fatigue. In addition, long-term exposure can affect reproductive health and lead to hormonal imbalances.”
“More foam does not mean more cleaning”
Chemical Engineer Hüseyin Baş, who stated that cleaning products can pose negative health hazards if they are not paid enough attention, said: “Although cleaning chemicals are widely used in home cleaning and hygiene, they can have negative effects on human health when used incorrectly or not paying enough attention. Cleaning agents should be used in the proportions specified in the user manual written on the packaging. More foam does not mean more cleaning! The detergents used for automatic machines, which have the highest dirt-dissolving ability, have very low foaming properties. It takes liters of water to completely remove even a small amount of dishwashing detergent, such as 1 percent, from a washed object. For this reason, adding more detergent to the dishes to make them lather up can not only cause extra costs, but can also lead to more detergent residue. Using more cleaner for very stubborn dirt can help dissolve the dirt, but it can also cause much more exposure to harmful substances.”
“Do not confuse products with each other”
Emphasizing that the labels of chemical products should be read before use and should not be mixed with each other, Hüseyin Baş said: “Cleaning chemicals should not be transferred from their original containers to other containers, products with different hazard symbols or with the risk of creating dangerous reactions should not be stored in the same area. Packaging should not be exposed to sunlight and empty bottles should not be stored. Mixing chemicals with substances such as bleach, salt spirit, limescale removers, sink openers and vinegar, either by mistake or in the belief that this will result in more effective cleaning, can create deadly toxic gases. Before using chemical products, the warnings and instructions on the labels should be read carefully and the meaning of hazard symbols should be learned. Even products without hazard symbols should be used with caution; protective equipment (goggles, gloves, masks) should be used if recommended by the manufacturer and the area should be well ventilated during cleaning.”
“It can be preferred to protect the environment”
Emphasizing that natural cleaning materials are more environmentally friendly than chemicals, Baş said: “Natural cleaning materials are less toxic and environmentally friendly than chemicals. Products such as lemon juice, vinegar and baking soda are effective on light and medium dirt and are less irritating for respiration, skin and eyes. In areas where children and pets are present, they can be preferred to prevent skin irritation and protect the environment. However, for strong stains and deep cleaning, chemical products may be more effective. Using both types of products in balance according to the needs will give the best results.”
“Children may accidentally swallow it”
Pointing out the importance of keeping away from children and pets, Baş said: “If there are children and pets at home, cleaning chemicals pose a great risk. Children can accidentally swallow these chemicals or get them on their skin, which can lead to health problems such as poisoning, skin irritation and respiratory problems. Similarly, pets can also be poisoned or suffer skin problems from exposure to chemicals. For this reason, cleaning agents should be kept out of the reach of children and animals, in their original packaging and with tightly closed lids. Follow the instructions when using chemical products and avoid storing excess products. Ventilation is also important to reduce the risk of chemical vapors.”
İHA Haber Kodu: 20240917AW288915