Knowing the Health Effects of PVC Blinds
As consumer action groups have commenced targeting chemicals found in commonly-sold products, a controversy has been brewing over polyvinyl chloride or PVC. Known to be one of the most inexpensive and versatile plastics, this material is employed in making a variety of consumer goods - from toys to decorative blinds.
However, there are certain countries that have already banned some of the most commonly found phthalates in child care merchandise The said substance is mainly added to plastics in order to decrease their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity. In addition, they are primarily used to soften polyvinyl chloride. There have been published reports that they are capable of causing endocrine or hormone disruption in human beings.
More often than not, PVC contains lead as a result of the manufacturing process. Other heavy metals that are present in polyvinyl chloride products include chromium, mercury, and cadmium. These are added to the said plastic to prevent it from breaking down when exposed to heat and sunlight.
Furthermore, most PVC products are difficult to recycle, including blinds. In addition to this, the plastic component is known to produce dioxins and furans as it breaks down. These two are toxic components that persist in the environment.
Finally, PVC is known, in some cases, to leach heavy metals in small amounts into water. Therefore, the chances of decorative blinds posing an immediate threat due to its toxic properties are fairly insignificant. When translated into the context of home use, they may be more dangerous for potential child strangulation hazards from strings than health-aversive substances in the actual vinyl material.
