HEALTH EFFECTS, ATTITUDES AND PERCEPTIONS TOWARDS CLEANING CHEMICALS

摘要

Little information on how people use cleaning chemicals is available or what their attitudes and perceptions are towards these chemicals. This is important as it determines their use patterns as well as problems which may arise such as their contribution to indoor air pollution and direct toxic effects. A survey was conducted of 800 Perth homes to investigate their cleaning behaviour and occupant's attitudes to cleaning. 19% of households reported someone in the house, most frequently the home carer, having adverse reactions to cleaning detergents from normal use. The most commonly reported symptoms were respiratory and skin irritation. 84% perceived there is little or no risk with their use. Despite this, respondents reported that they thought some of the toxic ingredients should be removed. The ingredients are not labeled in Australia although an overwhelming majority believed labeling of the ingredients should be compulsory.