TOXIC CHEMICALS - THE RED LIST

BPABisphenolA

Bisphenol A, or BPA, is known to cause negative effects in humans, such as reproductive and endocrine disorders, and neuro-behavioral problems. It may be estrogenic. It is a key component in hard, polycarbonate plastic, thermal receipt paper and epoxy resins – the protective lining of food and beverage containers, industrial equipment and piping. It’s also found in sealants used in everything from construction to dentistry.

StrategiestopreventBPAcontaminationininteriorenvironments:

Choose products with Green Guard Children Schools certification, Indoor Advantage Gold Certification, or C2CGo Indoor Advantage Gold Certification, or C2C Gold Certification, mesh seating instead of upholstery, and fabrics not treated for work stations and partitions. Avoid BPA-lined piping for plumbing and electrical conduits. Specify non-toxic adhesives and sealants.

Chlorobenzene

Chlorobenzene (aka monochlorobenzene or MCB), is a colourless, volatile, water-insoluble, flammable liquid with a strong smell of almonds. Chlorobenzene belongs to the same family of organic halogen compounds as Halogenated flame retardants. MCB is used in herbicides (most notably DDT). In the built environment, it is used in dyes, rubber, and in the manufacture of polyurethane insulation. Chlorobenzene is also used as a high-boiling solvent in the manufacture of adhesives, paints, paint removers, polishes, and dyes. Exposure can occur by inhalation or ingestion, and it can be absorbed through the skin. Exposure symptoms include drowsiness, lack of coordination, unconsciousness, headaches, numbness, nausea, vomiting, and eye and respiratory irritation. It can cause severe injury to the liver and kidneys

Strategiestopreventchlorobenzenecontaminationininteriorenvironments:

Specify the use third-party verified safe paints and paint removers, such as the one specified later in this document.

Ensure all dyes and polishes in specified materials are certified MCB-free.

Avoid polyurethane insulation in walls.

Practice herbicide-free landscaping management.