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Safe Chemical Management in Schools

From maintenance closets to chemistry labs, schools use a variety of chemicals. Not managed properly, chemicals can pose health and safety risks to students, school personnel and the environment and result in loss of education time and considerable expense. Toxic chemicals can cause health problems ranging from mild irritation of the eyes, skin, nose and throat, to more serious health issues such as asthma attacks, cancer, brain and nervous system disorders, and organ damage. Children are particularly vulnerable to environmental exposures because their bodily systems are still developing; they eat, drink & breathe more in proportion to their body size; and their behavior can expose them more to chemicals. A proper chemical management program ensures a school is free from hazards associated with mismanaged chemicals. Learn more about safely managing chemicals in classrooms, labs and throughout the school and school grounds, as well as greener alternatives for products such as cleaning supplies and furnishings

Tip: Also visit our National & State Green School Programs page to learn more about local and national Green School programs and resources to help you improve the health & sustainability of your school!

Colorful liquids in bottles representing chemicals

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