AboutSandy Brown, CHSP Expertise My expertise is in all the various aspects of industrial health and safety. I have worked 5 years as a Safety Officer in a hospital and 1 year in a heavy manufacturing environment.
Experience American Society for Quality
Board of Certified Healthcare Safety Professionals
WSCPA
Bachelor of Science in Safety & Health Management
HAZWOPER Certified
Decon Certified Trainer
American Red Cross Instructor CPR (Adult, Child, Infant)/First Aid/AED
MOAB Certified Instructor
OSHA 501 General Industry Certification
Expert: Sandy Brown, CHSP Date: 3/17/2008 Subject: bleach concentrations in the laboratory
Question My question concerns bleach concentrations in the laboratory. I am the molecular supervisor in a cytology laboratory and have found bleach is the best thing to use to control chlamydia and Gonnorhea contamination when used before and after testing. Are there any OSHA or EPA regualtions that address the bleach concentrations in an indoor environment? I would like some concrete information so I can be sure that the laboratory is not violating in regulations.
Answer Hi James,
There is no specific OSHA or EPA regulation that addresses air concentrations of calcium or sodium hydrochloride (bleach). The amount of calcium hydrochloride (most widely used) in air concentrations is in the 200 ppb (parts per billion) range which is extremely dilute. Bleach is listed as a "mild irritant" but in air concentrations it is not considered an over-exposure. It is a quite pungent odor, and one that I, personally, do not tolerate well. But it is only because I don't like it!
I hope I have been helpful. You may wish to contact the ACGIH for further information.
Best,
Sandy
