Hazardous Chemicals
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is classified as a human carcinogen. Formaldehyde can be used as a disinfectant or a sterilant. It is often found mixed in water and referred to as formalin. Formaldehyde can be used:
- to prepare viral vaccines;
- as an embalming agent;
- as a tissue fixative; and
- in the sterilization of medical equipment (e.g., surgical instruments, hemodialyzers).
Short-term exposure to formaldehyde can be fatal. Long-term exposure to low levels of formaldehyde may cause respiratory difficulty, eczema, and sensitization. More information
Glutaraldehyde
Glutaraldehyde is used as a cold sterilant to disinfect and clean heat-sensitive equipment such as dialysis instruments, surgical instruments, suction bottles, bronchoscopes, endoscopes, and ear, nose, and throat instruments. It is a colorless, oily liquid with a pungent odor. Hospital workers use it most often in a diluted form 1% to 50% mixed with water. More information
The following health effects have been reported in hospital workers exposed to glutaraldehyde:
- Throat, nose, and lung irritation
- Asthma, asthma-like symptoms, and breathing difficulty
- Burning eyes and conjunctivitis
- Rash-contact and/or allergic dermatitis
- Hives, headaches, and nausea
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-2. Which of the following chemicals is classified as a human carcinogen?
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