DO YOU STILL WANT TO USE PRODUCTS IN YOUR HOME THAT CONTAIN PHENOL?

Ø The following products are just a few that are so toxic that they should be disposed of in a toxic waste dump:

· floor care products

· furniture polish

· window cleaners

· bug spray

· nail polish remover

[Source: Water Pollution Control Federation]

Ø Warning labels on containers refer only to toxic hazards from ingestion; however, only 10% of health problems from chemicals are caused by ingestion. 90% are caused by the inhalation of vapors and absorption of particles.

Ø Government regulations require that only the most EXTREMELY toxic substances must contain a warning label. Labels that say the following should be removed from your house immediately:

· “Do not induce vomiting”

· “Corrosive – rinse from skin immediately”

· “Harmful or fatal if swallowed”

· “Call physician immediately”

· “Warning!” (may mean that as little as 1 teaspoon of product can harm or kill adult)

· “Danger!” (means that as little as 5 drops can harm or kill an adult)

Ø Phenolis an extremely caustic chemical that burns the skin. Absorption of phenol through the lungs or skin can cause:

· central nervous system damage

· pneumonia

· respiratory tract infection

· heart-rate irregularities

· skin irritation

· kidney and liver damage

· numbness

· vomiting

· and can be fatal

Ø Phenolis a very common chemical and is regularly found in the following common products:

· air fresheners

· aftershave

· bronchial mists

· chloroseptic throat spray

· deodorants

· feminine powders & sprays

· hair spray

· decongestants

· mouthwash

· aspirin

· solvents

· acne medications

· antiseptics

· calamine lotions

· cleaning products

· detergents

· furniture polish

· hair setting lotions

· lice shampoo

· polishes

· cold capsules

· all-purpose cleaners

· aerosol disinfectants

· anti-itching lotions

· carnex

· cosmetics

· disinfectant cleaners

· hand lotions

· lip balms