INTRODUCTION

Sodium hypochlorite, commonly known as bleach, is most frequently used as a disinfecting agent. It is a broad-spectrum disinfectant that is effective for the disinfection of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and mycobacterium. However, sodium hypochlorite is NOT effective in the disinfection of bacterial spores and prions.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Global Harmonized System (GHS) classification of sodium hypochlorite solution:

• Skin corrosion/irritation (Sub-category 1B)
• Serious eye damage/eye irritation (Category 1)
• Acute aquatic toxicity (Category 1)
• Chronic aquatic toxicity (Category 1)

Minimum Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that MUST be worn when preparing or handling a sodium hypochlorite solution:

• Nitrile Rubber Gloves; and
• Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Approved Safety Glasses; and
• Respiratory protection (NIOSH Approved) should be used any time there is the potential for exposure to vapor and/or dust and a fume hood cannot be used; and
• Lab coat. If sodium hypochlorite comes in contact with other cleaners containing ammonia or chlorine compounds, fatal levels for ammonia gas or chlorine gas can be produced. Never mix bleach with other chemicals.