Six Chemical Classes

One of the six chemical classes I chose to learn more about was flame retardants. The video I watched about them was clear and began by understanding why flame retardants have been used (to meet flammability regulations and delay spread of fire), but unfortunately they actually are not effective and are highly toxic. They cause more smoke and toxic gas to be released when burned, and when not burned, the chemicals can move onto our bodies, like on our hands, and move into dust that we breathe in. Some facts about flame retardants:

• babies are born with the same amount of flame retardants in their system as their mothers
• toddlers have 3-10 times more flame retardants in their system than adults (bc they have close contact with furniture and put their hands in their mouth)
• flame retardants can cause lower IQ and hyperactivity in kids, and cause reproductive issues and cancer in adults
• cats have 10-100 times more flame retardants in their system than humans since they lick their fur
• common items with flame retardants:
• TV cases, building insulation, car seats, mattresses, foam blocks

As the videos state- is it actually necessary to have this in our products? No, the cost outweighs the benefit! And when moving forward with purchasing household items (like a couch), I will remember to ask or check the tag to see if it has flame retardants.