Why Clean Green Clean air is one of the basic elements that humans require to live. Harsh chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite (bleach), butyls used in degreasers and strippers, hydrochloric acid formulated into bowl cleaners, and strong deodorizing fragrances can wreak havoc on IAQ. Many people experience headaches, nausea, or dizziness when they come in contact with the harmful gases these chemicals produce. Others have trouble breathing — especially asthma sufferers.

Asthma affects 20 percent of Americans, including 6.3 million children, and has become the leading cause of school absenteeism. Fifteen percent of all school children are considered asthmatic, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), yet many school restrooms are doused with bleach daily to control urine odors and harmful germs.

Green cleaning chemicals are designed to eliminate the presence of harmful gases that trigger asthma attacks or other reactions.

Besides improving air quality, workers benefit from using green chemicals because they are milder and less caustic to skin. The pH is generally much lower, which reduces the chance of epidermal irritation. Green chemicals also lack perfumes and dyes that can stain skin and fixtures. When used through a good chemical proportioning system and combined with good personal protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, workers reduce likelihood of contact and are safer. As a result, morale and productivity improve.

Many Federal agencies have made the switch from the use of conventional cleaning products to green cleaning products and services. To learn more about Quality Care Cleaning and the green program, call Tami