National Poison Prevention Week is March 20-26, 2022.
To help raise awareness of a simple step that can be taken to prevent pesticide-related illnesses, the Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Michigan State University would like to highlight the importance of not mixing incompatible pesticide and disinfectant products.
Disinfectants are regulated as pesticides, which kill insects and plants, while disinfectants kill microbial organisms. Be sure to read the labels on containers to determine if a specific pesticide product can be mixed with other products. Product labels also contain proper personal protective equipment to be worn when diluting or using the chemicals.
When in doubt, do not mix pesticides or disinfectants. Never mix bleach with an ammonia-based product or bleach with an acid-based product. Mixing bleach with an ammonia or an acid creates a toxic gas. Common ammonia-based cleaners are glass cleaners, floor and surface polishes, and bathroom cleaning products. Common acid-based cleaners are hard water/mineral deposit removers, toilet bowl cleaners, rust stain removers, tub and tile cleaners and mold removers.
Active ingredients can always be found on the label.
MSU released its annual report on acute pesticide injuries this past month (oem.msu.edu). In 2021, mixing incompatible products contributed to 15% of work-related and 13% of non-work-related illnesses and injuries caused by pesticide exposures. These exposures can be prevented by taking the time to read the product label.
Other simple steps that can help prevent illnesses and injuries from pesticide exposure:
• Follow label directions for the amount of pesticide needed for the intended area.
• Keep pesticide products in their original containers. Do not store pesticides in a water or pop container that can be mistaken for a drink.
• Make sure all household cleaning products as well as ant traps and moth balls are stored out of reach of children.
More information about pesticide exposures across the state including annual reports of exposure related illnesses and injuries can be found at oem.msu.edu. If you have additional questions, contact Hailey TenHarmsel, the pesticide surveillance coordinator at yondohai@msu.edu.