Hazardous Chemicals: Give Some Examples Of The Types ✓ Solved

Hazardous Chemicals 51 Give Some Examples Of The Types Of

1) Give some examples of the types of hazardous chemicals, specifically oxidizers, stored in homes (such as those stored under counters and sinks, in garages/basements and in pump houses/sheds). Discuss the following: A) What problems and dangerous situations can result from the improper storage and use (i.e., mixing them together, etc.) of these chemicals? Describe potential hazardous material interactions. B) What government agency and statutes/regulation(s) govern for the labeling and registration of these hazardous household products? 200 word minimum, APA Formatting with in text citations and references listed.

2) Why do firefighters recommend the use of a deluging volume of water when extinguishing an oxidizer-supported fire? What may happen to a large (i.e., 30-50lb) container of trichloro-s-triazinetrione, or calcium hypochlorite, if it is left to sit in the water and muck remaining in a building after fire fighting efforts have ended, but clean-up will not begin for several days? The assumption here is that the plastic container has been compromised in some way by the heat of the fire and possibly creating cracks in the base or sides. 200 word minimum, APA Formatting with in text citations and references listed.

Paper For Above Instructions

Hazardous chemicals are substances that can pose risks to health or the environment if not managed correctly. In the household context, several common oxidizers are stored under sinks, in garages, or in pump houses. Examples of these include bleach (sodium hypochlorite), hydrogen peroxide, and calcium hypochlorite. These oxidizers can present significant dangers if mishandled or improperly stored. For instance, mixing bleach with ammonia can produce chloramine vapors, which are toxic and can lead to respiratory problems (Tevera, 2021). Additionally, improper storage may lead to container degradation, leakage, or spills, posing environmental and health risks (National Fire Protection Association [NFPA], 2019).

Regulatory oversight for these household hazardous products is primarily the responsibility of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) mandates the registration and labeling of pesticides, while the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) covers a broader scope concerning chemical safety (EPA, 2020). These regulations are aimed at reducing potential risks associated with hazardous chemicals and ensuring that consumers are informed about the substances they store and use in their homes.

Firefighters recommend deluging the area with water when dealing with oxidizer-supported fires because the cooling effect of water can help to mitigate the fire's intensity and prevent reignition. Oxidizers can accelerate combustion, making these types of fires particularly dangerous (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives [ATF], 2021). Water not only cools the flames but also helps disperse the oxidizer, potentially preventing further reactions with other available combustibles.

However, if a large container of trichloro-s-triazinetrione or calcium hypochlorite is left exposed in water and debris following firefighting, significant hazards could arise. The heat from the fire may have already damaged the plastic container, potentially leading to cracks. This structural compromise can result in leaching of the chemical into the surrounding environment, mixing with water and other materials that could aggravate its reactivity (Jones, 2020). Over time, exposure to moisture can lead to decomposition of these chemicals, producing toxic gases and creating environmental contamination risks (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2019).

In conclusion, the proper storage and handling of hazardous chemicals, especially household oxidizers, are paramount in preventing accidents and ensuring safety. Regulations provided by governmental agencies like the EPA ensure that users are informed about these chemicals, while firefighting practices highlight the severity of oxidizer fires. Awareness and adherence to safety protocols can significantly mitigate the risks associated with these potent substances.

References

  • Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). (2021). Fire safety and protective measures for oxidizers. Retrieved from https://www.atf.gov
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2019). Chemical safety: A guide to household chemicals. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov
  • Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2020). Regulations for hazardous waste. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov
  • Jones, A. (2020). Interactions of oxidizers in residential environments. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 386, 121-130.
  • National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). (2019). Fire hazards involving oxidizers. Retrieved from https://www.nfpa.org
  • Tevera, M. (2021). Effects of mixing household chemicals: A study on bleach and ammonia. Environmental Science & Technology, 55(5), 3503–3510.
  • United Nations. (2020). Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). Retrieved from https://www.unece.org
  • World Health Organization (WHO). (2021). Chemical hazards in the home: Advice on safe usage. Retrieved from https://www.who.int
  • National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). (2021). Guidelines for safe storage of household chemicals. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh
  • U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (2021). Safety standards for hazardous chemicals. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov

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