For this module's discussion, please first review the following resources:
http://www.bromhttps://www.bsef.com/what-are-flame-retardants/#furniture (Links to an external site.)
http://www.acsh.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/20060809_flame.pdf (Links to an external site.)
http://www.ceh.org/wp-content/uphttps://www.ceh.org/latest/press-releases/playing-on-poisons-childrens-furniture-found-with-harmful-flame-retardant-chemicals/ (Links to an external site.)
http://www.apha.org/policies-and-advocacy/public-health-policy-statements/policy-database/2014/07/02/13/41/preventing-human-exposure-to-polybrominated-diphenyl-ether-flame-retardants-to-protect-public-health (Links to an external site.)
Then, reflect on and respond to the following: Based on these resources (please use references and citations, where appropriate), how do you see the trade-offs between the value of flame retardants in furniture and the risk of health effects of the chemicals used in these processes? What would do? What would you recommend to your family and friends?
Full Answer Section
However, other organizations, such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG), have raised concerns about the health risks of flame retardants. The EWG points to studies that have shown that flame retardants can interfere with the body's hormones and can lead to a variety of health problems.
The American Public Health Association (APHA) has also taken a cautious approach to flame retardants. The APHA recommends that the use of flame retardants should be minimized and that alternative approaches to fire safety should be explored.
So, what should we do about flame retardants in furniture? There is no easy answer. We need to weigh the potential benefits of flame retardants against the potential risks to human health. I think it is important to be aware of the risks and to make informed choices about the furniture we buy.
Here are some things you can do to reduce your exposure to flame retardants:
- Buy furniture that is labeled as "flame retardant-free" or "low-emitting."
- Look for furniture that is made with natural materials, such as wood or cotton.
- Avoid buying furniture that is made with polyurethane foam.
- Dispose of old furniture properly.
I would recommend to my family and friends to be aware of the potential risks of flame retardants and to make informed choices about the furniture they buy. I would also encourage them to buy furniture that is made with natural materials and to dispose of old furniture properly.
Sample Answer
The use of flame retardants in furniture is a controversial topic. On the one hand, flame retardants can help to prevent fires, which can cause serious injuries and death. On the other hand, some flame retardants have been linked to health problems, such as cancer, thyroid disease, and reproductive problems.
The resources you provided provide a good overview of the trade-offs between the value of flame retardants in furniture and the risk of health effects. The American Chemistry Council (ACC), for example, argues that flame retardants are an essential safety measure that helps to protect people from fires. The ACC also states that the levels of flame retardants in furniture are well below the levels that are considered to be harmful to human health.