Some hospital systems have pledged to reduce purchases of furniture and furnishings treated with antimicrobials and other chemicals, according to an article on the Health Facilities Management website.
The Safer Chemicals Challenge is part of a goal supported by Practice Greenhealth and Health Care Without Harm.
The chemicals include:
• Flame retardants
• Formaldehyde
• Stain- and water-resistant or perfluorinated compounds
• Polyvinyl chloride
• Antimicrobials
Furnishings include seating, work surfaces, built-in and modular casework, systems, beds (including mattresses), storage units, shelving, panels and partitions, cubicle curtains and window coverings.
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