Cleaning Chemicals to Avoid

25 October 2019

When it comes to cleaning in industrial areas, car parks and on construction sites, there are a number of chemicals we need to be wary of.

Unfortunately, many of the cleaning products used in these areas contain these chemicals. These substances can be harmful to people if not used responsibly.

Thankfully, Sydney Sweep and Scrub only use eco-friendly chemicals. As well as that, we practice the safest possible methods when operating in your warehouse, car park or building site.

Our commitment to sustainability also means that we not only look out for you, but the environment too.

Below is a list of 4 of the more dangerous chemicals that can be present in common industrial cleaning products.

Phthalates

These chemicals are usually found in plastics, as well as elements used in home cleaning, industrial cleaning, manufacturing and even children’s products.

Phthalates can even be present in toilet paper!

Unfortunately, phthalates have been proven to disrupt endocrines, which coordinate the release of hormones.

For instance, men who were exposed to high levels of phthalates for an extended period often presented a lower sperm count.

Ammonia

Ammonia is a common ingredient in most industrial cleaning products.

For example, it can be found in potent agents which break down grime and dirt, clean metal and glass surfaces, as well as tiles and polished concrete.

The dangers of ammonia concern inhalation of the chemical. It can irritate the skin, lungs and the eyes, especially if you’re using it in a poorly ventilated area.

Furthermore, if you swallow a cleaning agent which contains ammonia, you risk burning the mouth and throat. This chemical can also cause severe abdominal pain.

At Sydney Sweep and Scrub, we always use sustainable products and safe cleaning practices.

This means we prioritise the safety of your staff and our workers when sweeping and scrubbing space.

Quaternary Ammonium Compounds

QACs are found in many antibacterial and industrial grade cleaning agents.

Whilst an efficient cleaning compound, QACs can irritate the skin, as well as help to breed antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This can then make people more susceptible to bacterial illnesses.

Therefore, where possible, utilise methods that avoid cleaning products which contain QACs, for the benefit of your health.

2-Butoxyethanol

This is another chemical commonly found in industrial cleaning products, notably window cleaning agents.

Overexposure to 2-butoxyethanol can result in irritation to the throat and airways. At high levels, this chemical can contribute to pulmonary edema and severe liver and kidney damage.

Interestingly, 2-butoxyethanol is not required by law to be listed on the ingredients of these cleaning products.

In conclusion, there are a number of harmful compounds present in some of the most common cleaning products. That includes those used in warehouses, car parks and on construction sites.

Therefore, when you’re looking for a contractor to sweep and scrub your space responsibly, look no further than Sydney Sweep and Scrub.

Our commitment to sustainability and safety means we only use eco-friendly chemicals, where necessary. That means a safer environment for everyone.