What are the effects of flame retardants in the body?
Studies in laboratory animals and humans have linked the most scrutinized flame retardants, called polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs, to thyroid disruption, memory and learning problems, delayed mental and physical development, lower IQ, advanced puberty and reduced fertility.
Do flame retardants build up in the body?
However, because they do not easily break down, they can remain persistent in the environment for years. They can also bioaccumulate, or build up in people and animals over time.
Is flame retardant toxic?
Brominated flame retardants, which have received the most scrutiny, can build up in tissue, cause cancer, disrupt hormones, harm the reproductive system and cause neurodevelopmental problems, at least in animals and perhaps humans too.
Should I worry about flame retardants?
Avoid products that contain any flame retardant to reduce demand. As long as there is a demand for production, there will be communities that are exposed at very high levels due to geography alone.
What is the difference between flame resistant and flame retardant?
Resistant is defined as a material that is inherently resistant to catching fire (self-extinguishing) and does not melt or drip when exposed directly to extreme heat. Retardant is defined as a material that has been chemically treated to self-extinguish.
How long do flame retardants off gas?
Fabrics that have been treated with flame retardants are usually certified for one year. If you wash them in your washing machine like any other fabrics the chemicals dissipate over time, which is a good argument for buying used clothing.
Which of the following conditions has been strongly linked to exposure to flame retardants?
Some animal studies have shown that long-term exposure to flame retardants can lead to cancer. Researchers are also beginning to look at the potential association between flame retardants and other health outcomes, including thyroid disruption and obesity, and the role they may be playing in human development.
How do you know if something is fire retardant?
They are chemically treated to slow down the burning process or to never burn at all. A fabric is considered flame-retardant if it takes a long time before it burns compared to other types of similar materials.
Can you wash flame retardants out of fabric?
Yes, washing clothes in a washing machine WILL remove any flame retardants from clothing that you may have come in contact with throughout the day. Here’s an interesting article that answers your question with a scientific study: Chemical & Engineering News: Fire Retardants Wash Out in Laundry.