SOLVENTS

A solvent is any substance that dissolves another substance. For example, mineral spirits (a petroleum solvent) dissolves paint. Water, the most common solvent, is an "inorganic" solvent because it does not contain carbon. Many solvents used in the home are organic" solvents. All organic solvents are hazardous!

Organic solvents used in household products are hazardous and contain the same ingredients as their industrial and commercial counterparts. Solvents are used in many household products. Products containing almost 100% solvents include paint thinner, furniture stripper, dry-cleaning fluid, spot remover, degreaser, turpentine, and nail polish remover. Products that are composed partially of solvents include furniture oil, glues, aerosol sprays, shoe care products, rug cleaners, and oil-based paints. Solvents can be flammable, toxic, or pose a serious health risk through skin absorption and inhalation. Some health hazards occur immediately. Others, such as liver and kidney problems, birth defects, and nervous disorders, occur slowly over time.

If absorbed through the skin, solvents are readily passed into the bloodstream where they must be filtered out by the liver and kidneys, the body's first line of defense against toxins. Solvent vapors are easily inhaled. Inhalation may cause nose and throat irritation and damage to lung tissue. Solvent vapors or splashes can cause severe eye damage, especially to those wearing soft contact lenses because the lenses absorb the solvents and hold them next to the eye. In addition, many solvents adversely affect the central nervous system, producing drunken or narcotic effects which can permanently affect normal functions. Intentional inhalation of solvents can result in unconsciousness and death.

Some Toxic Organic Solvents common to Household Products:

Environmental concerns are also associated with solvents. During normal use, solvents escape into the environment where they contribute to smog-producing air pollutants. If disposed of improperly, solvents can contribute to groundwater pollution.

Use: To protect yourself from the ill effects of solvents; work in a well-ventilated area and use a fan to direct fumes away from the area where you are working and to the out-of-doors. Wear goggles, gloves, and clothing that covers exposed skin. After handling solvents, always wash your hands and any exposed skin before eating or smoking. Do not drink alcoholic beverages while using solvents because they intensify the toxic effects.

Storage: Solvents should be stored in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. If the solvent product is flammable or contained in an aerosol spray, precautions should also be taken to store away from heat, flame, or sources of ignition.

Disposal: The best way to dispose of solvents is to use them up as intended. If you have usable solvent and cannot use it yourself, donate your leftovers to someone who will use it up. Otherwise, solvents should be safely secured and stored for a professional household hazardous waste collection or taken to a licensed hazardous waste handler.

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