In some cases, workers pre-existing belief system about the source of an odor may be sufficient to create anxiety when exposed to any detectable concentration. 79: 339-342, 2006) found that for some odorous chemicals, even when one maintains airborne concentrations below a particular OEL (Occupational Exposure Limit), this level of exposure may not be adequate to prevent all persons from reporting an appreciable adverse response. Investigation by Paustenbauch and Gaffney (Intl. Odor complaints for bleach are not unlike complaints received for any other chemical with a noticeable smell. Cited from Toxicology Profile for Chlorine, ASTDR, USDHHS, September 2007). Perceivable sensory irritation, however, occurs at 1.0 ppm in air, 500 times that of the odor threshold (EPA 1999. In fact, the odor threshold for chlorine (when the scent is noticeable) is listed at 0.002 ppm in air and 0.31 ppm in water (EPA 1994b, 1999). It is unlikely that typical recommended uses of these disinfectants, used in accordance with the label directions, will exceed the occupational exposure limits for chlorine. This is because the sensory threshold levels for chlorine species is well below any levels recognized to cause potential respiratory irritation, or overt health effects, and is reflected in the current occupational limits. As an EPA-registered disinfectant, bleach classification as a "pesticide" and related language can sometimes cause further misperception when bleach is actually one of the worlds most widely available and used disinfectants.īleach and respiratory effects: The characteristic smell of bleach is indicative of a disinfected environment, but should not be a cause for concern for any adverse health effects. After use, the compound breaks down mainly into salt and water during or quickly after use.
In its manufacturing process, hypochlorite bleach begins as salt and water. In fact the term chlorine bleach is a misnomer because sodium hypochlorite bleach (common bleach) has a unique chemistry that is derived from sodium chloride - common table salt.įurthermore, use of bleach as a disinfectant does not form dioxins.
#Closed hands means cheap myth free#
Most concerns about bleach actually stem from a misperception that bleach contains free standing chlorine. The real bleach: sodium hypochlorite bleach has been used since 1913 for disinfecting needs everywhere from hospitals and nursing homes to daycares and households. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has registered bleach for use in a variety of healthcare settings, from patient rooms and neonatal nurseries to respiratory therapy rooms when used as directed. This way, the next time you are evaluating disinfecting products for your facility, you can be appropriately informed.Ĭurrent uses of bleach (containing sodium hypochlorite at the concentration levels in most bleach-based disinfecting products) and bleach based disinfectants in healthcare settings, following the guidelines of use recommended by CDC, have an established history of effectiveness. In the interest of informed decisions, we have gathered some information to help dispel this and other myths about bleach. Some facilities are reluctant to use bleach-based disinfectants because of a misperception that bleach can cause respiratory issues in patients and staff. difficile spores and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Sodium hypochlorite, or common bleach, is one of the most widely available disinfectants on the market today, and is seeing a resurgence in popularity within healthcare settings, with the advent of harder-to-kill pathogens such as C.
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