TOXIC CHEMICALS - THE RED LIST

Neoprene/Chloroprene

Neoprene. the trademarked name for Chloroprene Rubber (CR) was invented in 1930 and has a number of applications in the built environment, including electrical insulation and sheathing materials, adhesives, waterproofing of roofs, caulks, asphalt products, textiles, rug backing, and exercise equipment. It is only recently that Neoprene’s health and environmental impacts are beginning to be understood – we now know that this material is unsustainable and even hazardous during production, use and disposal. The chloroprene in CR is extremely dangerous to human health and the environment. Testing has revealed chloroprene in industrial wastewater and groundwater nearby Polychloroprene manufacturing plants. Chloroprene exposure can occur through skin contact or inhalation, and PPE must be worn at all times by anyone handling this substance. Exposure to chloroprene can cause giddiness, irritability, dizziness, fatigue, headache, respiratory irritation, chest pains, and damage to kidneys, lungs, liver and the nervous system.

StrategiestopreventChloroprenecontaminationininteriorenvironments:

Specify the use of CR-free electrical insulation and sheathing components. Specify the use of CR-free adhesives for interior finishes. Avoid synthetic textiles that may contain Neoprene, and check the backings on any interior rugs.

Use natural latex rubber in place of CR whenever possible.

Chromium-6

Hexavalent Chromium is a highly reactive valence state of the metallic element Chromium. Chromium-6 is used in a number of building- and interior design-related processes and products, such as metal finishing and chrome plating, stainless steel production, leather tanning, wood preservatives, and textile dyes. It is also created as a byproduct in metal welding. Chromium-6 is released into the environment during the production stage, both into waterways and the air. Occupational exposure can occur during manufacturing, from inhalation of dusts, mists and fumes, and eye- or skin-contact. Ingestion of contaminated water is the primary way people outside of industry are exposed.

Exposure to Chromium-6 can cause various cancers, skin irritation and dermatitis, asthma, damage to eyes, kidneys, liver and teeth, pulmonary congestion and swelling, epigastric pain, and many other issues.

StrategiestopreventChromium-6contaminationininteriorenvironments:

Specify Chromium-free leathers, or leather alternatives for finishes and upholstery.

Specify Chromium-free wood products.

Avoid stainless steel where possible, especially in interior finishes.

Opt for non-metallic building materials where possible.

Ensure natural and non-toxic dyes are used for interior textile finishes.