Disinfectants and Sterilants

Chemicals of concern: Glutaraldehyde, ethylene oxide, chlorine buckets, pesticides, quaternary ammonium compounds

Affected individuals: Healthcare workers, disposal workers

Harmful effects:

Glutaraldehyde is a potent occupational skin irritant and causes asthma
Ethylene oxide is flammable and explosive, a probable human carcinogen, a toxic air contaminant, and an ozone depleter
Chemicals designed to kill biological organisms like pesticidal cleaners can be very toxic to humans and ecosytems.
Chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite), can in some circumstances liberate chlorine gas, a respiratory irritant and sensitizer.
Quaternary ammonium compounds are respiratory sensitizers

Alternatives:

Redesign of cleaning processes
Alternative safer chemicals such as peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide solutions.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for pest control
Less toxic disinfectants that are adequate for many purposes