INFORM's Report on Cleaning for Health: Products and Practices for a Safer Indoor Environment

This INFORM Report shows how toxic chemicals found in many cleaning products can jeopardize the health of janitorial workers and other building occupants. Several states and local governments have found that switching to “greener cleaners” has improved indoor air quality, reduced complaints among janitorial staff and even saved them money. This report is a one-stop guide to environmentally preferable cleaning products and methods that have been effectively used in office buildings, schools, hospitals and other facilities in the United States and Canada. It describes pioneering product evaluation programs and lists the brands that were chosen based on environmental and performance criteria. It also provides a model specification, as well as manufacturer contacts and other resources for those who want to develop a safer cleaning program for their buildings.

INFORM, Inc. is an independent research organization that examines the effects of business practices on the environment and on human health. Our goal is to identify ways of doing business that ensure environmentally sustainable economic growth. Our reports are used by government, industry, and environmental leaders around the world. We have earned a reputation for thorough, accurate analysis and clear, solution-oriented reporting.

Toxic Chemicals and Human Health. To help shape an economy that is less dependent on the use of toxic chemicals, INFORM is working to heighten public awareness of the significant role of products that contain toxic chemicals in environmental pollution and threats to public health. INFORM’s work with government agencies, public institutions, and businesses aims to reduce the purchase and use of products that contain persistent and bioaccumulative toxic chemicals (PBTs) and encourage the purchase and use of safer alternatives.