Multiple Chemical Sensitivities
Multiple Chemical Sensitivities or MCS is not a rare condition. It seems that a large percentage of average people will react to something in the environment. The question is the level of toleration and the range of items that trigger a reaction.
People with a nut allergy can range from mildly reactive to strongly reactive. Other react to mold and mildew which can grow into Mild sickness. There are allergies to latex, plants, foods, and a wide range of chemicals.
Without pretending to be a doctor, logic tells us that things we could tolerate as a child or teen may create health reactions later in life. While there are a variety of theories, it seems that much of this comes from a weakened immune system.
As we age, our immune system declines. Then, there is the toxic buildup in our bodies after years of constant exposure. This explains why nurses and cleaning worker are more prone to chemical sensitivities later in life.
The Green Clean Institutes has advocated for Green or eco-safe cleaning products for nearly twenty years. During that time, we have seem the cycle of toxic chemical exposures impact the lives of many good people. Sadly, some of these cases could have been prevented by early adoption of Green cleaning programs.
Even the recent COVID-19 pandemic has tended to increase exposure to sanitizing chemicals that are effective but still on the toxic side of the equation. Bleach is one of the more common, but controversial sanitizing products. Yes, bleach does kill germs, and it is cheap. But, one breath from an open bottle immediately tells you that this product is not good for your health.
The pitfall is like smoking. It seems oaky today; but after twenty years of smoking, we pay a price for the abuse of our body later in life. Sadly, there is go easy way back to a normal life after our immune system has lost the battle.
Typically, once chemical sensitivities are recognized, the downhill trend is already happening. MCS gradually includes more and more things we can no longer tolerate until the person feels trapped into a self-protective cocoon.
BOTTOM LINE: Every cleaning and sanitizing services need to start a serious Green cleaning program.
Change cleaners and sanitizing products that are eco-safe
Look at the SDS, HMIS, and NYFD ratings of products
Choose Green Certified products by an independent source
Do the same reviews of fragrances used by your service
Use eco-safe pesticides
Avoid aerosols as much as possible
Product Companies: Look into Green Product Certification by the Green Clean Institute.
