Disinfectants and Sterilants Chemicals of concern: Glutaraldehyde, ethylene oxide, chlorine buckets, pesticides, quaternary ammonium compoundsAffected individuals: Healthcare workers, disposal workersHarmful effects: Glutaraldehyde is a potent occupational skin irritant and causes asthmaEthylene oxide is flammable and explosive, a probable human carcinogen, a toxic air contaminant, and an ozone depleterChemicals designed to kill biological organisms like pesticidal cleaners can be very toxic to humans and ecosytems.Chlorine bleach (sodium hypochlorite), can in some circumstances liberate chlorine gas, a respiratory irritant and sensitizer.Quaternary ammonium compounds are respiratory sensitizersAlternatives:Redesign of cleaning processesAlternative safer chemicals such as peracetic acid and hydrogen peroxide solutions.Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for pest controlLess toxic disinfectants that are adequate for many purposes
