Common Classes of Cleaners and Disinfectants and Associated Health Effects

Acids and alkalis

• Ammonia

• Hydrochloric acid

Removing scale, grease, or stains

Skin/eye burns, respiratory irritation, coughing, lung damage (high exposure)

Alcohols

• Ethanol

• Isopropanol

Disinfecting surfaces, sanitizing hands

Skin/eye irritation, dryness, respiratory irritation, dizziness (inhalation)

Aldehydes

• Formaldehyde

• Glutaraldehyde

Disinfecting medical equipment

Skin sensitization, asthma, eye irritation, potential carcinogen (formaldehyde)

Chlorine compounds

• Sodium hypochlorite (bleach)

Disinfecting surfaces, treating water

Skin/eye irritation, respiratory irritation, coughing, asthma exacerbation

Gaseous sterilants

• Ethylene oxide

Disinfecting medical equipment

Carcinogenic effects, reproductive toxicosis, nerve damage, respiratory irritation

Peroxides

• Hydrogen peroxide

Disinfecting surfaces and equipment

Eye/skin irritation, burns at high concentration, respiratory irritation

Phenolic compounds

• Cresols

• Phenol

Disinfecting floors and surfaces

Skin burns, systemic toxicosis, respiratory irritation

Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats)

• Benzalkonium chloride

Disinfecting surfaces

Skin irritation, dermatitis, respiratory irritation, possible asthma