3.4 - Hazardous Household Chemicals

Question 1

What can cause hazardous household chemicals to lead to health problems or death?

Answer 1

If improperly transported, stored or disposed of, hazardous household chemicals can lead to health problems or even death

Question 2

What is WHMIS?

Answer 2

Labels that are used in the workplace and safety hazard symbols are used on consumer products

Question 3

What are Material Safety Data Sheets?

Answer 3

MSDS are sheets provided by suppliers for hazardous products. An MSDS contains:

• Product description
• Precautions to take
• Health effects and first aid
• Spill procedures

Question 4

What are some new product regulations?

Answer 4

• Certain products require government approval before they can be sold (strict testing process)
• Information must be provided on intended use, safety precautions, health effects and environmental effects
• See “Storage of Hazardous Chemicals” on textbook page 255

Question 5

What are the regulations regarding transportation of consumer goods?

Answer 5

• Stand products upright in the trunk and ensure they can’t move
• Don’t mix chemicals
• Keep products in their original containers, with labels intact

Question 6

How must we dispose of hazardous chemicals?

Answer 6

• Hazardous chemicals must be taken to a hazardous waste collection site, where they will be recycled or incinerated
• They cannot be put into soil, poured down the drain or thrown away. This could affect drinking water
• See “Solid Waste Garbage” on textbook page 258