Concerns About Bleach Use and Health Risks for Janitors

Q: Concerns About Bleach Use and Health Risks for Janitors

Dear Mr. Jason： 1. Bleach is a strong and effective household disinfectant, with its main ingredient being sodium hypochlorite. It denatures microbial proteins, effectively killing bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Since sodium hypochlorite gradually decomposes ove

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Hello Doctor: I am currently working as a janitor, and my daily tasks involve cleaning restrooms and sweeping floors.
Given my job, I believe the likelihood of encountering Helicobacter pylori due to contact with feces is significantly increased, although I have not undergone any related tests.
While cleaning the restrooms, I always wear gloves when scrubbing toilets and urinals, so although I cannot guarantee 100% protection, I still have some exposure.
During cleaning, I use a diluted bleach solution, and my mixing ratio is somewhat high, resulting in a strong odor.
Sometimes, it feels similar to bleach poisoning! I find it strange if I don't smell it, and I've become accustomed to the scent.
Occasionally, I accidentally spray it into my eyes, but I haven't rinsed them immediately with water, and fortunately, my eyes have been fine.
I would like to ask the following questions: (1) Recently, with the rise of COVID-19, there have been online instructions on how to disinfect using bleach, stating that after using bleach, one should wipe with clean water after 10 minutes.
I often use bleach when cleaning restrooms, and even if I spray it on the toilet seat, I only wipe it with a cloth and do not rinse it with clean water afterward.
What impact might this have? (2) Websites also mention that bleach must be diluted before disposal; otherwise, pouring it into the toilet can prevent feces from decomposing.
Given that there are now sewage systems in place, does this make a difference? Thank you for your response.

Jason, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/04

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Mr.
Jason:
1.
Bleach is a strong and effective household disinfectant, with its main ingredient being sodium hypochlorite.
It denatures microbial proteins, effectively killing bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Since sodium hypochlorite gradually decomposes over time and is also affected by high temperatures, its efficacy diminishes.
Therefore, when you spray bleach on a toilet seat and wipe it after ten minutes, the pathogenic proteins on the seat should theoretically be destroyed, rendering them non-pathogenic.
On the other hand, any residual sodium hypochlorite will also gradually decompose and volatilize.
It is important to wipe again with clean water primarily to avoid any residual sodium hypochlorite, which can cause severe irritation to the mucous membranes of the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract, and may even lead to corrosive damage and chemical reactions.
Thus, when using bleach, ensure proper ventilation, and items or hands that have been disinfected should be rinsed and dried with clean water.
2.
Excessive use of bleach or using bleach at a high concentration can produce toxic substances that pollute the environment and disrupt ecosystems.
Therefore, bleach should be diluted for use; improper use can affect its antimicrobial function and even lead to accidents that threaten health.
Additionally, avoid using bleach in conjunction with other cleaning agents, as this can often result in strong chemical reactions or accidents.
3.
It is particularly important to avoid contact between bleach and the eyes.
If bleach splashes into the eyes, rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
4.
Cleaning is a highly specialized task, so please adhere to standard operating procedures to avoid harming yourself or others.
If you have further questions, it is advisable to discuss them in detail with your family physician.

Reply Date: 2020/02/04

More Info

Using bleach and other cleaning agents in janitorial work raises several health concerns, especially when proper safety measures are not followed. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the potential risks associated with bleach use and how to mitigate them.

Health Risks of Bleach Exposure
1. Respiratory Issues: Inhaling bleach fumes can irritate the respiratory tract. Symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure can lead to chronic respiratory conditions, particularly in individuals with pre-existing asthma or other lung diseases.

2. Skin and Eye Irritation: Direct contact with bleach can cause skin irritation, burns, or allergic reactions. If bleach gets into the eyes, it can lead to severe irritation or even permanent damage. It’s crucial to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and goggles, to minimize these risks.

3. Chemical Burns: High concentrations of bleach can cause chemical burns on the skin. If bleach is accidentally sprayed or splashed, it should be washed off immediately with plenty of water.

4. Toxicity in High Concentrations: Using bleach in high concentrations can lead to toxicity. Symptoms of bleach poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can lead to respiratory failure or other serious health issues.

Best Practices for Safe Bleach Use
1. Dilution: Always dilute bleach according to the manufacturer's instructions. A common dilution ratio for disinfecting surfaces is 1:10 (one part bleach to ten parts water). This helps reduce the concentration of fumes and potential skin irritation.

2. Ventilation: Ensure that the area is well-ventilated when using bleach. Open windows and doors, and use fans to help disperse fumes. This is particularly important in enclosed spaces like restrooms.

3. Immediate Cleanup: After using bleach, surfaces should be rinsed with water after the recommended contact time (usually around 10 minutes) to prevent residue buildup, which can be harmful if left on surfaces that come into contact with skin or food.

4. Proper PPE: Always wear gloves, goggles, and masks when handling bleach. This protects against skin contact, eye exposure, and inhalation of fumes.

5. Avoid Mixing Chemicals: Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning agents, as this can produce toxic gases that are harmful to health.

Addressing Specific Concerns
1. Bleach Residue: If bleach is used on surfaces like toilet seats without rinsing afterward, it can lead to skin irritation for anyone who comes into contact with those surfaces. It’s advisable to follow up with a rinse to ensure safety.

2. Disposal of Bleach: When disposing of bleach, it should be done according to local regulations. Pouring undiluted bleach down the toilet can disrupt the natural bacteria that help break down waste. Always dilute before disposal, and check local guidelines for proper disposal methods.

3. Infection Risks: Regarding your concern about exposure to bacteria (like Helicobacter pylori from feces), wearing gloves is a good practice. However, it’s also important to wash hands thoroughly after removing gloves and before eating or touching your face.

4. Regular Health Checks: If you experience symptoms like persistent coughing, skin irritation, or eye discomfort, consider consulting a healthcare professional. Regular health check-ups can help monitor any potential long-term effects of chemical exposure.

In conclusion, while bleach is an effective disinfectant, it must be used with caution to prevent health risks. Following safety guidelines and using appropriate PPE can significantly reduce the likelihood of adverse health effects. If you have ongoing concerns about your exposure to cleaning chemicals, consider discussing them with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations.

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