Toxic Chemicals

It is important for you to know about harmful chemicals and substances in your home and workplace. Some of these, such as pesticides, solvents, and heavy metals can be harmful to your health. If you become pregnant, they can be harmful to the baby too.

How can toxic chemicals affect your health?

Chemicals and other substances can enter your body when you breathe, eat, or drink. They can also enter through your skin if you touch them. Some chemicals can cause miscarriage, birth defects, or other problems.

How can toxic chemicals affect your children?

Lead poisoning is most common in young children and is most harmful to children because it affects their developing brains. It can be found in many products we use every day, sometimes even in toys and some imported candies. It’s also in the paint in many older houses, in some dirt, and dust. Your baby’s doctor can review risk factors for lead poisoning and may recommend a blood test to check for lead poisoning. 

Children age 12 months and 24 months who are enrolled in publicly funded health care such as Medi-Cal, Child Health and Disability Prevention Program (CHDP), and the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) are at high risk and should be tested. Visit the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch’s website to learn how to protect your children from lead. 

Learn more about how toxic chemicals can affect your children with the below resources:

• CDPH: Keep your family lead safe
• Healthy Babies Bright Futures
• Safe Nest: Safeguard your pregnancy and baby from toxic chemicals interactive tool
• UCSF Reproductive Health and the Environment

Where can you learn about toxins at your workplace?

There are many industrial products that can enter your body and cause harm to your health. If you get pregnant, they can also harm the baby. In particular, some of the products used in workplaces related to healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, or printing are known to be especially dangerous. Learn more about health hazards at work.

You can learn about toxic chemicals at your workplace by checking the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). The MSDS should be available for all of the chemicals and substances that could cause you harm at work. It provides information about the dangers of the material and tells you what to do to protect yourself, such as proper handling procedures. It is important to follow the safety guidelines and use the right protective gear. Also, always wash your hands before eating. Learn more about MSDS.

Where can you learn about toxins in your home?

There are many household products that may be harmful to your health and may cause problems if you become pregnant. These include pesticides, cleaning products, and products for home maintenance. Materials used in hobbies such as oil painting, glass staining and jewelry making can also be harmful. It is important to know about the risks of using these products and how to use them safely. Learn about these products and making a healthier home