Car interior health hazards are an issue that all car owners need to keep in mind. Even if you have your own air conditioning system, you might be exposed to a number of harmful fumes inside of your vehicle. For instance, you might be exposing yourself to the toxins known as PBDEs or Benzene. You can avoid these dangers by keeping your vehicle in good condition. It takes time to save for your car and you would lose a lot more money when you have to deal with health problems after you get your car.
Phosphates
The PIP (short for phosphate) is a phosphorus-laden chemical compound. There are hundreds of gallons of it sloshing around the nation’s waterways. While the chemical is non-toxic and relatively inert, its presence may be more of an annoyance than a boon. The good news is that there are a multitude of alternatives, notably phosphate-free substitutes. So how does a prospective buyer go about the task? One would be well advised to eschew a carpooling route to the nearest phosphate-laden gas station, and if one is lucky, find an unfettered car. Luckily, the phosphate-free alternative is a reasonably priced and plentiful alternative to its more cynical counterpart.
The PIP is an interesting topic of conversation for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the aforementioned oh-so-famous occupants. To help facilitate that, the EPA has a few tricks up its sleeve. With the help of the public, the agency is able to engage in some formative research on a regular basis.
Benzene
Benzene is a chemical that is found in gasoline and cigarette smoke, and is also present in many common products. It is a known carcinogen, which means it is dangerous to inhale or ingest. This substance can cause cancer, leukemia, and other forms of blood and lymph cancer.
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) limits exposure to benzene in the air at five parts per million over a fifteen-minute period. OSHA is a federal agency that regulates the health and safety of most workplaces.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) issued a public health advisory in 2011, warning that people who work or commute in cars may have a higher risk of contracting cancer. They cited the number of studies relating to car emissions and the possibility of cancer.
PBDEs
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely used as flame retardants in consumer goods. You will not find them in modern SUVs but they can be present in older cars. Their widespread use has resulted in increased concern over their potential adverse health effects. These compounds are similar in structure to the more toxic dioxins, PCBs and dioxin-like chemicals.
PBDEs are also suspected to have endocrine-disrupting properties. They may affect the thyroid gland and interfere with its hormone metabolism. PBDEs are widely used in products such as plastics, resins and polyurethane foam-filled furniture.
Despite their widespread use, little is known about PBDEs’ human toxicity. Some research has found that PBDEs may be present in humans’ blood and breast milk. A study of PBDEs in umbilical cord blood found that they were associated with adverse birth outcomes.
Several studies have indicated that PBDEs are associated with impaired thyroid function. However, the exact cause of thyroid dysfunction is unclear.
Molds
Molds in car interiors can cause a range of health issues. Depending on the type of molds that you have in your vehicle, the effects can be anything from mildew to lung infections to asthma attacks. The good news is that there are some easy ways to remove the mold from your car’s interior.
First, you should be aware that some types of molds are toxic. Symptoms of exposure include rashes, allergic reactions, and even death. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.
Second, you should clean your vehicle regularly. A regular vacuum cleaner will be able to pick up the small stuff, but you’ll need to use a wet-dry vacuum cleaner to get rid of the bulk.
Second-hand smoke
Second-hand smoke in cars is a huge health hazard. It causes heart attacks and lung cancer. Children are especially at risk. Several states and provinces in Canada have enacted smoking bans in cars that are carrying children.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set guidelines for the safety of secondhand smoke. They state that concentrations of 250 milligrams per cubic meter are unsafe for any person.
Secondhand smoke can also cause respiratory problems and lung infections in children. Infants under the age of 18 months are particularly vulnerable to the effects of secondhand smoke. Other health effects include an increased risk of asthma attacks, ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome.
If you or your child is exposed to secondhand smoke, call your health care provider to make sure you are not suffering from a life-threatening disease. You should also ask your doctor to check your lungs regularly.