What risks do Household Hazardous Waste products hold?
When hazardous waste products are poured out onto the ground or thrown into the trash they pose a risk to people and the environment. Disposing of them into the trash can cause fires, explode or react with refuse in the sanitation trucks, thus posing risks to sanitation workers. Household products may be flammable, poisonous, corrosive, reactive, explosive or carcinogenic. Our health can be adversely affected through ingestion, inhaling gases or by absorption through the skin. Hazardous material can effect the environment by contaminating air, water, and soil. In addition, some chemicals are not biodegradable and can accumulate in the fatty tissues of some animals when digested. How do I know when a product is potentially hazardous? Product labels contain useful information on ingredients, hazards, and proper use. Pesticide labels are legally required to provide information on active ingredients and toxicity. Futher information may be obtained by contacting the manufacturer of a produc
