Harsh chemicals such as bleach, butyls used in degreasers and strippers, hydrochloric acid formulated in bowl cleaners, and strong deodorizing fragrances can wreak havoc on indoor air quality. Many people experience headaches, nausea, or dizziness when they come in contact with the harmful gases these chemicals emit, while others, especially asthma sufferers have trouble breathing.

According to recent studies, asthma affects 17 million Americans, including nearly 5 million children, and has become the leading cause of school absenteeism. Nearly one in every 13 school aged children have asthma, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, yet many school restrooms are continuing to be doused daily with bleach to control urine odors and harmful germs.

Implementing a green cleaning program with green chemicals eliminate the presence of harmful gases that trigger asthma attacks or other reactions. Besides improving IAQ, cleaning personnel also benefit from using green chemicals because they are milder and less caustic to skin


posted on 9/16/2010