United States

Environmental Protection

Agency 

Region 8

Pollution Prevention Program

(8P-P3T)

EPA/908/R-00-001

March, 2000

www.epa.gov/region08

Cleaning National Parks:

Using Environmentally

Preferable Janitorial

Products at Yellowstone

and Grand Teton National

Parks
Cleaning National Parks:

Using Environmentally Preferable Janitorial 

Products at Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

National Parks

Prepared for:

Pollution Prevention Program

U.S. EPA Region 8 (8P-P3T)

999 18th Street, Suite 300

Denver, CO 80202-2466

Prepared by:

Sophia Wakefield and Angele Ferre

S.A.F.E., Consulting for the Earth, Inc.

P.O. Box 4334

Jackson, WY 83001

March, 2000 
The information in this document was funded in part by the

United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 8

Pollution Prevention Program under contract 7-KPC080. Funding

was also provided under Grant 06SC0203152 with the Wyoming

Department of Environmental Quality. Additional support was

received from Yellowstone National Park under DX#1443PX1570-99-

242. Appendix A was written by EPA. Appendix B and the caveats

about Material Safety Data Sheets in Appendix C were developed

jointly by the consultants and EPA. This report has been subjected to

the Agency’s peer and administrative review and has been approved

for publication as an EPA document. 

The authors wish to acknowledge the outstanding support of Greg

Smith, former General Manager of Signal Mountain Lodge in Grand

Teton National Park, Greg Weiner, chemist, Edna Good, Chief of

Concessions at Yellowstone, Jim Evanoff, Yellowstone Facility

Manager, and Don Eby, President of the Clean Environment

Company. The EPA Region 8 Pollution Prevention Program

gratefully acknowledges the contributions of Dianne Thiel as project

manager, Dr. Suzanne Wuerthele as technical advisor, and the

following peer reviewers: Ruth Heikkinen and Russell Clark, Office

of Pollution Prevention, James Darr of the Office of Toxic Substances,

Theresa Hoagland, Office of Research and Development, and Dr.

Marybeth Smuts, EPA Region 1. 

DISCLAIMER

Mention of trade names or commercial products does not

constitute endorsement or recommendation for use. 

For additional copies of this document after December, 2000,

please contact:

Pollution Prevention Information Clearinghouse

Telephone: (202) 260-1023

Fax:(202) 260-4659

E-mail:ppic@epamail.epa.gov 

Website:www.epa.gov/oppt/library/libppic.htm

A copy of this document may be viewed online at the EPA Region 8

Pollution Prevention Program’s web page found under Toxics and

Poisons at http://www.epa.gov/region08

ii
Table of Contents

I. Purpose of the Project ..................................................................................1

II. Purpose of this Report ................................................................................3

III. Background..................................................................................................5

A. Yellowstone National Park ............................................................................5

B. Grand Teton National Park............................................................................7

C. Cleaning Products...........................................................................................9

D. Special Cleaning Challenges at Yellowstone ..............................................9

E. Background of the Consultants...................................................................10

IV. Approach to the Project ...........................................................................11

A. Facility-wide Inventory and Assessment Phase ......................................12

B. Pilot Implementation Phase.........................................................................12

C. Buying Guide and Installation Plan...........................................................13

D. Installation and Training Visit ....................................................................13

E. Follow-up Visits.............................................................................................14

F. Implementing the Project across Yellowstone ...........................................14

G. Evaluation ......................................................................................................15

H. Expansion of Project to Grand Teton.........................................................16

V. Environmentally Preferable Products

Used at Yellowstone and Grand Teton ..................................................19

VI. Why Did Yellowstone and Grand Teton Succeed? ...........................21

VII. Lessons Learned for Future Projects...................................................23

VIII. Recommended Next Steps ..................................................................25

IX. Appendix A: Why Change to 

Environmentally Preferable Cleaning Products.................................27

X. Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary ......................................29

XI. Appendix C: The Challenge of Evaluating Cleaning Products ......39

XII. Appendix D: Types of Products Used at Yellowstone

and Grand Teton National Parks .........................................................45

XIII. Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998

Custodial Products Bid Specifications .............................................49

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PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT

The purpose of this project was to help National Park Service

janitorial staff and supervisors at Yellowstone and Grand Teton

National Parks select and use safer cleaning products. To be

selected, the new janitorial products had to meet Park cleaning goals

and criteria for environmental preferability developed by the city

government of Santa Monica, California.

Purpose of the Project ! 1

PROJECT OBJECTIVES

Eliminate or greatly reduce the use of toxic, hazardous and

environmentally harmful cleaning chemicals, and potential human health

risks.

Reduce the quantity and variety of cleaning products by consolidating and

standardizing product purchases.

Choose the safest and “greenest” janitorial products with a proven record

in commercial operations. 

Involve top management, first line supervisors and janitorial staff in all

aspects of this process to ensure long term success.

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Purpose of this Report ! 3

PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT

This report documents the process that the National Park Service

and two consultants used at Yellowstone National Park to introduce

environmentally preferable cleaning products. Grand Teton National

Park implemented a similar program starting in April, 1999. This

case study is intended to help other Federal agencies and private

businesses understand how to carry out a “green” cleaning project. 

This report identifies the elements crucial to the project’s success

and discusses next steps to assure that the project is institutionalized.

Five appendices contain supplemental material. Appendix A

presents reasons why Federal facilities and others should consider

environmentally preferable cleaning products. Appendix B contains

an ingredient guide and glossary identifying chemicals found in

commonly used commercial and consumer cleaning products.

Appendix C presents information to consider when reviewing

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) and labels for health and

environmental effects of cleaning products. Suggestions are given on

evaluating products and setting goals for an environmentally

preferable cleaning project. Appendix D contains a description of the

environmentally preferable products used by Yellowstone and Grand

Teton National Parks. Appendix E contains a copy of the City of

Santa Monica, California’s 1998 Custodial Product Bid Specifications.

The Santa Monica bid specifications can be a good starting point for

evaluating cleaning products. 
4
Background ! 5

BACKGROUND

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, encompasses 3,400

square miles or 2.2 million acres. The Park is located primarily in the

northwest corner of Wyoming, with portions extending into

southwestern Montana and southeastern Idaho. It is open to visitors

from mid-April until late October, and in the winter, from mid

December to mid-March. About 3 million visitors from all over the

world come to Yellowstone each year, mostly during the summer

months. The Park Service Headquarters is in Mammoth, Wyoming.

On July 13, 1999, the Director of the National Park Service in

Washington, DC, issued a memorandum to all employees on

environmental leadership.

This letter stated his goal

that the Park Service and

its partners become leaders

among all Federal agencies

in pollution prevention and

protection of the

environment. He

specifically mentioned

“buying environmentally

friendly ‘green’ products”

as one way that Park

employees can demonstrate

leadership. 

Environmental leadership

at Yellowstone predates this

memorandum by several

years. Michael Finley, Yellowstone’s Superintendent, was committed

to expanding the Park’s “greening” role, protecting “the health and

security of our visitors and employees and protecting the Park’s

sensitive environment.” The Park began a “Greening of Yellowstone

Initiative” in October, 1997, in commemoration of the Park’s 125th

anniversary. In August, 1998, as part of this initiative, the U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency Region 8 Pollution Prevention

Program provided funding to two consultants to assist Yellowstone

in “greening” their custodial operations. 

Through partnerships, Yellowstone has embarked on a variety of

other “greening” efforts over the past several years. They include

initiatives on areawide composting and recycling, and use of biobased oils for a truck, snowmobiles and other equipment.

Yellowstone employees have made an aggressive effort to educate

visitors about their “greening” initiatives. These projects also serve

as a model for motels and other businesses in the gateway

communities around the Park. 

American Bison at Yellowstone
6 ! Background

Yellowstone National Park 
GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK

Grand Teton National Park and John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial

Parkway, which are administered together, are located adjacent to the

southern boundary of Yellowstone National Park. Including

Yellowstone, these three units lie at the heart of the Greater

Yellowstone Ecosystem, the largest and most nearly intact ecosystem

remaining in the temperate zones of the earth. This makes them

important not only to the United States, but to the world. The

Headquarters for Grand Teton National Park and John D.

Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway is in Moose, Wyoming.

Grand Teton National Park was established by Congress in 1929,

originally containing about 96,000 acres of the most spectacular part

of the Teton Range and the lakes at the base of the peaks. In 1943,

President Franklin Roosevelt proclaimed an area of about 223,000

adjacent acres as Jackson Hole National Monument. President

Truman signed an act in 1950, combining the Monument and the

original park. The present park consists of 309,997 acres, about 485

square miles.

The “greening” of the custodial operations compliments previous

pollution prevention efforts in the Park, including elimination of the

use of solvents in the auto shop, and recycling used motor oil for

heating. The Park is in the process of developing an integrated solid

waste and recycling plan. A propane fueling station will be

constructed to promote the use of alternative fuels in vehicles. 

Background ! 7

Bob Wemple, Environmental Engineer at Grand Teton National Park
8 ! Background

Grand Teton National Park
CLEANING PRODUCTS

When the average citizen thinks about chemicals in our national

parks, cleaning products probably do not come to mind. However,

in parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton, the janitorial staff cleans

many different types of buildings, including visitor centers, offices,

restrooms, lodging, gift shops, restaurants, campground shower

buildings, gas stations, maintenance shops, and medical clinics.

Typically, a wide variety of commercial and consumer cleaning

products are used. 

Many common commercial and consumer cleaning products

contain chemicals that, depending on dose and exposure, could be

harmful to janitorial employees and chemically sensitive park

visitors. Some chemicals in cleaning products can pose physical

hazards. For example, they might pose risks if purposely or

accidently mixed with other cleaning chemicals. Some chemicals in

cleaning products can also have adverse effects on the environment.

In high enough doses, some chemicals could increase the biological

oxygen demand in surface water or harm sewage treatment plant

bacteria. Some chemicals may be toxic to aquatic life in low

concentrations.

SPECIAL CLEANING CHALLENGES AT YELLOWSTONE

Yellowstone presents many challenges that would not be faced at

other Federal facilities:

LOCATION: The Park is divided into seven districts with subdistricts. This project had to take into account district and site

specific cleaning goals, some of which were not written down. Long

distances between the developed areas in Yellowstone and the harsh

winter weather make travel and training more difficult. In the

winter, much of the travel is done via snowmobile. 

STAFF: Yellowstone has a sizable janitorial staff of over fifty

employees who work in the Maintenance Department. Some of

these workers return year after year. Others work one year, or only

during a summer season. 

Background ! 9
PARK USAGE: So many people visit the Park in the summer that it

is hard for the staff to get into the facilities to clean during the day.

For example, Old Faithful may have more than 25,000 visitors a day

during July and August. Visitors form lines outside the bathrooms

when they are closed for cleaning.

FACILITIES: Many park buildings are old, and some are historic

structures. Fixtures at some locations are old and stain easily. A few

locations have highly mineralized water. Heavily-used vault toilets

are pumped every day. Visitor centers have 12-15 feet tall glass or

plastic display cases that attract dust, finger prints, gum, and grease.

10 ! Background

TYPES OF FACILITIES AT THE PARKS

CONCESSIONAIRE OPERATED FACIILITIES:

FOOD SERVICE Kitchens

Restaurants

HOUSEKEEPING Lodging 

JANITORIAL Medical buildings

Service and gas stations

Gift stores

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE OWNED FACILITIES:

JANITORIAL Offices

Visitor Centers

Stores

Restrooms

Employee facilites

Maintenance buildings

STAKEHOLDERS: Finally, there are a variety of stakeholders in the

parks besides the National Park Service - numerous concessionaires

operate facilities in the Park and in some cases, share storage

facilities. 

BACKGROUND OF THE CONSULTANTS

The consultants for this project had previous experience in

converting large and small operations to environmentally preferable

cleaning products. They converted Signal Mountain Lodge in

Grand Teton National Park in 1991and helped the City of Santa

Monica, California, establish their environmentally preferable

janitorial products program in the mid-1990’s. Santa Monica’s

program is considered to be one of the leading environmentally

preferable janitorial programs in the country. 
APPROACH TO THE PROJECT 

In August, 1998, the

Region 8 Pollution

Prevention Program of

the U.S. Environmental

Protection Agency hired a

consultant to assess the

cleaning products at a

Federal facility and help

that facility switch to less

toxic products.

Yellowstone National

Park volunteered to work

with the consultants on

this project under the

umbrella of its “Greening

of Yellowstone Initiative.”

The Facility Manager

for the Park Service was

designated as the

consultants’ primary

contact during the

project. The consultants

also coordinated with the

Park Service Chief of

Concessions on matters

involving work with the

concessionaires. 

Approach to the Project ! 11

Edna Good, Chief of Concessions

PROJECT TIMELINE

Sept, 1998 Yellowstone National

Park volunteers for project

Sept-Nov, 1998 Parkwide inventory

of cleaning products, staff interviews

Nov, 1998 Start of winter pilot phase

at Mammoth and Old Faithful

Jan, 1999 Installation visits, training,

removal of old products

Jan-March, 1999 Follow-up visits to

fine tune the projects

March, 1999 Decision to expand

project to all Park Service facilities in

Yellowstone

April, 1999 Grand Teton National

Park joins cleaning projects

April-Sept, 1999 Implement project

at Park Service facilities throughout

both Parks

Sept, 1999 Evaluation by consultants
FACILITY-WIDE INVENTORY AND ASSESSMENT PHASE

The project began in September, 1998, with a Park-wide inventory of

existing cleaning products and an assessment of cleaning goals and

work practices. The consultants visited all janitorial work stations

(both Park Service and concessionaire-operated). The consultants

found more than 130 different cleaning products used in Yellowstone

at the time of their first visit. An additional 30 products were on the

storage shelves but were not being used when this project began. The

consultants compiled an inventory of the cleaning products used,

interviewed staff and supervisorsand identified specific cleaning

needs, 

In a project of this type, it is very important to listen to what the staff

says about their jobs. The consultants talked with employees and

supervisors to learn:

what the cleaning goals of the organization are

who establishes the cleaning goals or requirements

how the staff cleans 

what tools and products are used 

what are their toughest cleaning challenges 

how much time do they have to clean

how many people use the buildings, restrooms

how are the buildings or facilities used

how old are the buildings and fixtures to be cleaned

what their preferences and perceptions about cleaning products 

how willing is the staff to change their work practices

what information do they want about new products

in what format would that information be most useful

Proper equipment and training are crucial to the success of an

environmentally preferable cleaning project. At Yellowstone, it was

found that appropriate tools of the trade were missing or not

available. For example, there were no measuring devices for diluting

concentrates. Training had not been done at some locations on how to

use disinfectants and properly mix a cleaning product. There was a

widespread belief expressed that using a disinfectant for general

cleaning would protect the staff from any possible infection or illness.

“Topping off” other cleaners with bleach was another practice that

staff felt gave them an additional margin of safety. No system of

checks and balances to evaluate cleaning techniques or equipment was

in place.

PILOT IMPLEMENTATION PHASE

After the inventory and assessment phase, the consultants worked

with Park Service staff to set up a pilot implementation phase at

Mammoth and Old Faithful during the winter season of 1998. The

12 ! Approach to the Project

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purpose of the pilot phase was to test new products at Park

Headquarters and a busy winter use area in the center of the Park.

With full support from the Park Service Concessions Office, the

concessionaires were included in the winter pilot phase of the

project. The pilot implementation phase ran from November, 1998,

through March, 1999.

BUYING GUIDE AND

INSTALLATION PLAN

As part of the pilot, the consultants

developed a buying guide for new

products and dispensing equipment.

The buying guide identified the

environmentally preferable products

that were most likely to do the required

job. The cleaning products selected for

this project had previously met the City

of Santa Monica’s environmentally

preferable bid specifications. For more

detailed discussions of the products,

see pages 13-14 and Appendix D. The

consultants also assisted the Park in

ordering products, dispensing systems

and accessories, to make sure these

items were available in time for the

installation visit. They identified

plumbing and electrical modifications

needed for the dispensing systems.

Finally, they prepared a training

manual for each site that included the

products to be used at that site. The

training manual was designed so pages could be removed and

added as other new products were brought in.

INSTALLATION AND TRAINING VISIT

During the installation visits in January, 1999, the consultants

oversaw the onsite set-up at each site. At Yellowstone, all old

products were removed when the new products were brought in.

This was very important in order to give the new products a fair

trial. To eliminate dilution errors, easy-to-use automatic dispensing

systems were set up and tested at each location. The dispensing

system diluted the product to the correct concentration. Employees

were given better equipment, such as squeegees.

Onsite hands-on cleaning demonstrations were given at each

location to show:

how the new products work

proper measuring procedures

different cleaning techniques to improve the performance of

the environmentally preferable cleaning products

Approach to the Project ! 13

Maintenance staff at Yellowstone collecting

old cleaning products during Pilot Phase.

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For instance, more time or elbow grease may be required when

using less toxic products. The consultants demonstrated cleaning

techniques such as use of squeegees for window cleaning and using

water as a cleaning agent - i.e., rinsing surfaces with water after

cleaning instead of using a spray and wipe method with no rinsing. 

Additional training included instruction on proper use of

disinfectants and sterilizers, which are commonly overused or used

inappropriately. Site specific training manuals were handed out to

each employee and supervisor. 

FOLLOW-UP VISITS

After the initial round of visits to each location, periodic follow-up

visits were made. The purpose of these visits was to adjust the

program to fit into the routines, workload and culture of the

organization. Follow-up visits were also necessary to ensure correct

understanding of project objectives and procedures. The consultants

coached the staff and supervisors until the use and performance of

the new products became routine. 

The consultants and the product manufacturer also provided

trouble-shooting expertise. The consultants researched particular

questions. The manufacturer recommended switching from plastic

to stainless steel soap dispensers in high traffic areas. The

manufacturer also addressed product formulation issues. In some

cases, dilution ratios or formulations were adjusted for site-specific

needs. 

IMPLEMENTING THE PROJECT ACROSS YELLOWSTONE

In March, 1999, at the end of the

pilot phase, the consultants received

feedback from the cleaning staff,

supervisors and senior management

about the project. The pilot phase

demonstrated that it was possible to

meet Park cleaning needs using

environmentally preferable cleaning

products. After a briefing on the

project by the consultants and

Maintenance managers in April, 1999,

the Park Superintendent decided to

expand the cleaning project

throughout the Park during the

spring and summer seasons. Two

concessionaires - the Yellowstone

Park Service Stations and the medical

clinics - also converted their

operations throughout the Park. A

third concessionaire expanded its

pilot programs. 

14 ! Approach to the Project

Lexi Marsh, Maintenance Employee at Madison

Junction, Yellowstone National Park
Throughout the rest of the Park, the consultants followed the same

steps as for the pilot phase - developing buying guides and planning

for installation, conducting the installation visit and training, and

doing follow-up visits. Expanding the project to all Park Service

operations brought new challenges. 

The distances to be traveled increased as did the number of visitors

to the Park. Summer visitation at Yellowstone is very high between

July 1st and the end of August. The Old Faithful area may be visited

by over 25,000 people a day during these months. With that many

people, the janitorial staff has a difficult time closing the bathrooms

to clean them, and has to work very quickly to accommodate the line

of people waiting for the bathroom to reopen. Adjustments were

made to the program throughout the summer to accommodate the

staff’s needs. 

EVALUATION

In September, 1999, at the end of the summer season, the

consultants conducted an evaluation at Yellowstone. The Park was

able to reduce the number of cleaning products needed by over 80%,

from 130 different products to 15 environmentally preferable

products which met the 1998 Santa Monica bid specifications, plus

three others used occasionally for special purposes. For a more

detailed discussion of the products used at Yellowstone and Grand

Teton, please see Appendix D. 

Approach to the Project ! 15

Hank Quintana, Warehouse Supervisor, stocks most cleaning product and containers at Mammoth.
With such a large reduction in the number of products, benefits

were achieved in many areas. The acquisition process was

simplified. Stocking fewer products resulted in better inventory

control and reduced storage needs. Because he is familiar with the

acceptable cleaning products, the warehouse manager has identified

several requests for unapproved cleaning products and sent them to

the Facility Manager for review. 

Dispensers prevent waste by measuring the concentrate accurately.

Dispensers also minimize contact with the concentrate, which is

purchased in bulk five gallon and one gallon containers. The

containers that cannot not be returned for reuse are recyclable.

This project also changed the thinking of some of the janitorial

staff. For example, the bathroom cleaner in one restroom location

was not strong enough to absorb the smell in the unsealed concrete

flooring. Prior to this project, a stronger product would have been

the solution to this dilemma. Instead of a stronger product, custodial

staff suggested sealing the concrete so that the environmentally

preferable product could be used.

EXPANSION OF THE CLEANING PROJECT TO GRAND

TETON

In April, 1999, Jack Neckels, the Superintendent of Grand Teton

National Park, decided that Grand Teton would join the cleaning

project at the same time as expansion of the project across

Yellowstone. Park staff were ready to purchase products for the

upcoming season, making it the perfect time to start a new program.

16 ! Approach to the Project

5- gallon containers of cleaning products at the Mammoth Warehouse
! 17

Park personnel were familiar with the consultants’ work at Signal

Mountain Lodge in the early 1990’s and had been using some

“green” products on a trial basis. After talking with the staff at

Yellowstone and getting positive feedback about the way their pilot

was working,

management decided

to join the full

program. The

consultants were able

to set up the

program quickly and

worked closely with

suppliers and staff.

Grand Teton, a

smaller park than

Yellowstone, has one

supervisor and 16

seasonal custodial

employees during

the summer. In the

winter, the

supervisor does all

the cleaning. The

staff at Grand Teton

face many of the

same cleaning

challenges, including

a visitor center,

restrooms, vault

toilets and offices.

Grand Teton

benefitted by

reducing the number

of products used and

by simplifying the

distribution and

storage of products.

The supervisor and custodial staff were very experienced in cleaning

and were familiar with many types of products. The process of

moving to environmentally preferable products allowed these

employees to discuss what worked and to come up with their own

ideas on how to use the new products most effectively. The reduced

exposure to potentially harmful substances motivated and excited

the staff. 

During the summer season, the staff evaluated the cleaning

products and was very satisfied overall with the new products and

methods. The staff will continue to experiment with new

environmentally preferable products as they become available, while

maintaining the basic simplicity of the operation and use of the

dispensing equipment. 

Approach to the Project

Kirby Burford, Maintenance Supervisor at Grand Teton National Park
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ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE

PRODUCTS USED AT YELLOWSTONE

AND GRAND TETON 

By the end of the project, most cleaning products used in

Yellowstone and Grand Teton were made from plants like corn and

soy instead of petroleum, a non-renewable resource. Appendix D

contains a listing of the products the Parks were using at the end of

this project. All but three products used in Yellowstone and one at

Grand Teton meet the 1998 bid specifications for the city government

of Santa Monica, California, according to the manufacturer.

The Santa Monica bid specifications require that these products

meet the international Organization for Economic Cooperation and

Development (OECD) definition of “readily biodegradable.” In

conformance with the bid specifications, the products do not contain

known or probable carcinogens, mutagens, or teratogens designated

under Federal or California state laws. The specifications do not

allow ozone depleting chlorinated compounds, or any chemicals

reportable under Section 313 of the Emergency Planning and

Community Right-to-Know Act [except for floor care products and

metal polishers]. The volatile organic compound (VOC) levels must

meet or be less volatile than the California Code of Regulations

maximum allowable VOC levels for appropriate cleaning product

categories. No products can contain alkyl phenyl ethoxylates

(hormonal mimics) above trace amounts. No products can be

delivered in aerosol cans. 

At the Parks’ request, dyes are used in several products to help

employees differentiate between those products. These dyes are

among the few approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

for food use. Where fragrances are included, such as deodorizers in

the enzymatic stain treatment or the air freshener, the product

contains peppermint or d-limonene, a citrus-based ingredient, in lieu

of petrochemical-derived fragrances. Recycled or recyclable

packaging is used. Many of the products are made in concentrated

formulations and purchased in bulk. The products are dispensed

through automatic systems, which reduce employee contact with the

concentrate, and ensure consistency in dilution ratios. 

An environmentally preferable approach to cleaning is to minimize

the use of disinfectants. Disinfectants, by their nature, are designed

to kill microorganisms. Per the Santa Monica bid specifications, the

Parks do not use general cleaning products with added disinfectants.

Instead, they use quaternary ammonium chloride, a non-bleach

disinfectant, for limited applications. The use of bleach was

dramatically reduced when the new disinfectant was substituted and

workers were trained in disinfection techniques.

As mentioned above, three products used at Yellowstone and one

at Grand Teton do not meet the City of Santa Monica’s bid

Environmentally Preferable Products Used at Yellowstone and Grand Teton
specifications because they contain petroleum distillates (TRI

chemicals), or have a high or low pH. These products include a

special degreaser/cleaner used for greasy floors in shop areas, a

delimer/descaler used for occasional heavy build-ups, and a graffiti

remover. These products were tried only where environmentally

preferable products did not meet the cleaning requirements of the

district supervisor. The use of these products is limited to specific

situations. The Parks are continuing to look for environmentally

preferable alternatives.

Both Yellowstone and Grand Teton remain interested in finding a

deodorizer for heavily used vault toilets that can meet the City of

Santa Monica’s bid specifications. Some toilets are pumped every

day to make them as appealing as possible to visitors. Daily

pumping does not give the environmentally preferable enzymatic

deodorizers time to work. Plastic-coated glass has been another

cleaning challenge at Yellowstone. Finally, the natural floor finish

product that brought out the shine on linoleum floors like the ones in

Yellowstone Fleet Maintenance, lacks high buffing characteristics on

old wooden floors. The Parks’ goal is to find environmentally

preferable products to meet these challenges.

20 ! Environmentally Preferable Products Used at Yellowstone and Grand Teton
WHY DID YELLOWSTONE AND GRAND

TETON SUCCEED?

Why did Yellowstone and Grand Teton Succeed? ! 21

THE PARKS SUCCEEDED BECAUSE OF:

Support from the top.

Implementation of a pilot project.

Commitment to the project by key employees and supervisors.

Education of custodial staff in face-to-face meetings.

Perceived health benefits.

Simplification of purchasing and reduced storage space.

Maintenance of the vision.

A willingness to look for opportunities to improve.

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Support from the top: The support of the top level official is

essential. The Superintendents at both Yellowstone and Grand Teton

National Parks told the custodial staffs and supervisors that this was

an important project and everyone’s support was expected.

Implementation of a pilot program: Introducing the

program on a limited basis allowed the Park to test products for

performance, involve onsite janitorial staff in the decision-making

process, and create a positive first-hand experience that reduced

resistance and skepticism. Including custodial staff in the decision

on whether to expand the pilot program across the facility was very

important.

Commitment to the project by key employees and

supervisors: Support by key employees who had the respect of their

peers made a significant difference. Supervisors who were interested

in moving to environmentally preferable products were able to help

their employees overcome fears and doubts. A strong commitment

to the project encouraged and united those who had less security in

making these changes.

Education of custodial staff in face-to-face meetings: Experts

in the environmentally preferable cleaning field provided hands-on

training to help the staff understand the entire program. Questions

were answered, and reasons for embarking on an environmentally

preferable cleaning project were explained. This training was very

effective in demonstrating for skeptical staff that alternative products

can work as well or even better than conventional products.

Perceived health benefits: In addition to showing that

environmentally preferable products work, experience has shown

that informing employees about potential health benefits of
environmentally preferable products is an important step to gain

support. The fast acceptance of this project by some employees at

Yellowstone resulted in part from perceived health benefits - no

sneezing, red eyes, headaches, sore throats. It should be noted that

no medical monitoring was done during this project, but numerous

employees commented to the consultants that they felt better after

the switch to environmentally preferable cleaning products. 

Simplification of purchasing and reduced storage space: At

Yellowstone, most of the new cleaning products are stocked at the

central warehouse in Mammoth. Because the same products are

used throughout the Park, all districts are able to fill most of their

cleaning supply needs from the warehouse. The need for onsite

hazardous material cabinets at each location was also reduced.

Maintenance of the vision: In a large scale change project, it

is important to have a vision of the completed project with all details

addressed. In this project, seeing the end from the beginning helped

to overcome many problems. 

Willingness to look for opportunities to improve: The

champions in the Parks are always looking for new applications for

environmentally preferable products. 

22 ! Why did Yellowstone and Grand Teton Succeed?

Yellowstone back country in May
Lessons Learned for Future Projects ! 23

Early coordination with the warehouse manager/staff and

purchasing departments is important. They can be great advocates.

Support for the project must come from within the District itself. It

works best if it comes from both the supervisor and the staff. Not all

locations at Yellowstone supported the cleaning project. When

neither the supervisor nor custodial staff assumed leadership for the

program, the change to environmentally preferable cleaning products

was difficult. There must be a champion for the project at each

location for such a large scale initiative to succeed. 

However, in every pollution prevention project, there will be

individuals who resist any change. Only a demonstration of facilitywide determination to go forward will persuade those unwilling to

participate.

Most problems can be solved with a strong visible management

commitment and good communications. At every opportunity, top

level commitment from managers should be restated to supervisors

and employees if the program is to move forward.. 

The need for personal protective equipment should be explained to

staff as appropriate. 

Increased oversight for the first several weeks of each

implementation phase is important to make sure everyone is familiar

with proper dilutions, the training manual, and cleaning techniques

that will work with the new products, etc. This can prevent

problems later.

LESSONS LEARNED FOR FUTURE

PROJECTS

LESSONS LEARNED

Coordinate early with warehouse and purchasing.

Have champion at each location.

Demonstrate strong management commitment. 

Communicate top level commitment.

Explain use of personal protective equipment.

Do increased oversight at first.

Verify proper use of products. 

Involve the staff in making changes.

Understand that personal preferences can affect acceptance.

Share success stories.

Quantify the cost savings.

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If a product doesn’t seem to be working, first check to see how it is

being used. It could be that the dilution rate is incorrect, the

suggested cleaning procedures are not being followed, or the product

is being used for something for which it was not designed.

If the proper dilutions and procedures are being followed and the

product still is not working, involve the staff in finding another

environmentally preferable product or changing the procedures. 

In some cases, personal preferences can affect whether a person

thinks a product works or not. At Yellowstone, one couple said the

basin, tub and tile cleaner was the best product they had ever had,

while another couple cleaning at the same location on a different day

reported the product was the worst product ever used. 

One cleaning product may have several purposes. Share success

stories with other locations that may have similar problems.

The parks did not quantify their cost savings. Collecting and

publicizing cost data (using environmental cost accounting) can

increase management support and help others to implement similar

projects.

24 ! Lessons Learned for Future Projects
Recommended Next Steps ! 25

RECOMMENDED NEXT STEPS

Formalize the program.

Create formal evaluation process for new chemicals.

Provide ongoing support.

Create network of champions.

Evaluate and report on progress.

Add cleaning project to interpretative program.

Encourage concessionaires to implement.

Promote to other Federal facilities.

There are a number of areas where the Park Service can continue to

actively support this project in the future:

It will be important for the Park Superintendent to demonstrate

continued commitment for the project to Park employees. He can do

that by issuing a written policy supporting the program, by ensuring

that Maintenance documents the procedures and periodically

updates them, and by asking for regular progress reports.

The search for environmentally preferable products for several

situations needs support. Over the next year, alternative products

for masking odors in vault toilets, cleaning plastic-coated glass in

restrooms, and stripping and buffing old wood floors will be tested

within the parks. A process for evaluating these products is needed.

Supervisory and staff champions should provide leadership for

returning crews in the winter and spring/summer/fall seasons. For

instance, training should be done at the start of each season and

when new products are introduced. The manuals and laminated

cards on the back of the cleaning closet doors should be updated if

new products are brought in. 

At Yellowstone, a network of these champions could be formed to

share success stories and help resolve any questions or problems that

arise.

Periodic program evaluations should be continued and the results

reported to top management.

The Park Service could include the environmentally preferable

cleaning project in its interpretative program to educate Park visitors

on the leadership role these Parks have assumed.

RECOMMENDED NEXT STEPS

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The Park Service could encourage their concessionaires to

implement environmentally preferable cleaning products programs.

Yellowstone and Grand Teton could continue to promote this

project to other Federal facilities.

Now that the cleaning project has been established, it is important

to complete these last steps and integrate the project into Park

management systems so it can continue to flourish and expand.

26 ! Recommended Next Steps
Appendix A:Why Change to Environmentally Preferable Cleaning Products? ! 27

APPENDIX A

WHY CHANGE 

TO ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE 

CLEANING PRODUCTS? 
28 ! Appendix A:Why Change to Environmentally Preferable Cleaning Products?

WHY CHANGE TO ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE 

CLEANING PRODUCTS?

Many common cleaning products contain chemicals which, in their

pure form, have been shown to have health effects and/or which

pose storage and disposal concerns. The potential for a cleaning

product to cause problems depends on the concentration and

formulation of the ingredients, and on how the product is stored,

used and disposed. 

While indoor air quality problems can arise from inadequate

housekeeping that fails to remove dust or other contaminants,

cleaning products themselves produce odors and emit a variety of

chemicals that can contribute to poor indoor air quality. The U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency’s Total Exposure Assessment

Methodology (TEAM) studies indicate that while people are using

products containing organic chemicals, they can expose themselves

and others to high pollutant levels. Elevated concentrations of

pollutants can persist in the air, particularly in enclosed spaces and

poorly ventilated areas. Selecting cleaning products that minimize

these emissions can provide a clean environment while protecting

the health of workers and occupants. 

There is growing evidence that some chemicals in cleaners are

agents that cause asthma or make it worse. In a June, 1999,

surveillance of work-related asthma in selected US states - California,

Massachusetts, Michigan, and New Jersey - using surveillance

guidelines for state health departments showed that in 4.6% of workrelated asthma cases (51 cases out of 1,101), the putative agent was

cleaning materials.

An occupational lung disease bulletin issued by the Massachusetts

Department of Public Health in April, 1998, reported that more than

10% of the work-related asthma cases reported list cleaning agents as

the suspected asthma agent. These cleaning agents included bleach,

chlorine, floor stripper, ammonia, sodium hydroxide, muriatic acid,

detergents and disinfectants.

Finally, in the preamble to Occupational Safety and Health

Administration’s (OSHA) revised Hazard Communication Standard

(59 FR page 6151), OSHA cited data from the Consumer Product

Safety Commission’s (CPSC) National Electronic Injury Surveillance

System (NEISS). These data concerned work-related chemical

injuries from consumer products where the injury was treated in an

emergency room in 1986. The data were provided by emergency

rooms to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

According to CPSC, soaps, detergents and “cleaning compounds not

classified elsewhere” were cited as responsible for 10, 252 workrelated emergency room visits.

These limited data suggest that users of cleaning products should

look for the least toxic product that can do the job in order to

minimize potential health and safety risks. 
Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary ! 29

APPENDIX B

Ingredient Guide and Glossary
30 ! Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary

Ingredient Guide and Glossary * 

This glossary describes some of chemicals commonly found in

cleaning products and some related terms. Some janitorial products

can cause chemical, health or environmental hazards. The potential

for a cleaning product to cause problems depends not only on its

physical and biological properties, but also on the concentration and

formulation of the ingredients in the product, and most importantly,

how it is stored, used or disposed. For example, using a volatile

chemical in an enclosed space without adequate ventilation would

pose more of a hazard than using it in a large room with open

windows. Similarly, using a corrosive product without wearing

personal protective equipment would increase the risk.

Acetone [ CAS No. 67-64-1 ] - Flammable volatile liquid with

distinctive odor. Reacts explosively with hydrogen peroxide.

Irritating to eyes, respiratory tract and skin. May be absorbed by

inhalation. Can cause changes in liver’s ability to metabolize

chemicals, kidney damage, dizziness, sedation and coma.

Uses: Spot and graffiti remover, solvent.

Acids - Solutions with a pH range between 0 to 6.9. They are

corrosive between pH 0 and 2.0 and produce severe burns on

contact. See also pH. Uses: Many cleaning products (e.g., delimers,

bathroom cleaners, bowl cleaners) are acidic.

Acute health effects - Effects which occur rapidly as a result of

short-term (usually less than 24 hours) exposures. Acute effects are

usually of short duration, but long term effects can occur after one

exposure. Examples include irritation, corrosivity, chemicallyinduced unconsciousness (narcosis), or death.

Aerosol propellants - Gases used to pressurize spray products.

Chloroflouorocarbons, which deplete the ozone layer, may be found

in old cleaning products. Today other chemicals, such as isobutane,

a petroleum product may be used. Hydrocarbon propellants like

isobutane contribute to smog problems because of their contribution

to tropospheric (ground level) ozone formation .

Alkalies (bases) - Solutions with a pH range between 7.1 to 14.0. An

alkali is corrosive when pH is higher than 11.5. See also pH.

Uses: Many cleaning products (e.g., bleach, detergents, dishwashing

soaps, drain openers and oven cleaners) are alkalies.

Ammonium chloride [CAS# 12125-02-9] Colorless crystals which

are soluble in water and ammonia. Dust is mildly irritating to eyes,

nose and throat. See also Ammonia compounds, Quaternary

ammonium chloride. Ammonium chloride is harmful to aquatic life

in very low concentrations.

Ammonia compounds (Includes ammonium chloride [ CAS No.

12125-02-9 ], ammonium hydroxide [ CAS No.1336-21-6],

benzalkonium chloride [ CAS No. 8001-54-5 ] ) - Usually liquids with
Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary ! 31

a pungent odor. Corrosive in concentrations found in commercial

products (over 10%). Forms irritating cloramine gas when combined

with chlorine-containing products. Fumes can cause irritation of the

eyes, respiratory tract. Liquid can cause skin burns. Toxic to fish,

and reduces oxygen in surface water.

Uses: In many cleaning products, depending on concentration, as

antiseptic, bactericide, fungicide, sanitizer, deodorant. Used in

detergents as a surfactant. Also found in floor polish, glass window

cleaners, household hard surface cleaners, rug and upholstery

cleaners

Benzene [ CAS No. 71-43-2 ] - Flammable liquid with a sweet odor..

Toxic to bone marrow, and a cause of leukemia in humans. In 1978,

the Consumer Product Safety Commission outlawed its use in many

cleaning products, although it may still be found in old stocks.

Degrades slowly. See BOD discussion.

Uses: Spot remover, carpet spotter, laundry starch preparations.

Biodegradable - Capable of being converted to simpler chemicals by

microorganisms.

Biological oxygen demand (BOD) - refers to increased use of oxygen

by microorganisms in surface water when they metabolize organic

chemicals. The total BOD load in an aquatic ecosystem is an

important water quality parameter because this increased use of

oxygen reduces amounts available to aquatic organisms like fish. At

the same time, it is important to note that the availability of carbon

sources (essentially what BOD measures) is often not the primary

limiting factor in the growth of microorganisms in an aquatic

ecosystem. In many aquatic systems other nutrients such as nitrogen

or phosphorus are the limiting factors in microbial growth and it is

the additional loading of these nutrients, rather than carbon, that is

the primary factor in excessive microbial growth and oxygen

depletion. 

2-Butoxy ethanol [ CAS No. 111-76-2 ] (Also known as Ethylene

glycol monobutyl ether; Monobutyl ethylene glycol) - Incompatible

with bleach. May damage eyes and respiratory tract. Absorbed

through the skin. May cause liver and kidney damage; causes birth

defects in lab animals. With chronic exposure, causes central nervous

system toxicity, testicular atrophy.

Uses: In many cleaning products, including glass, window and allpurpose cleaners.

Carbolic Acid - see Phenol

Carcinogen - Chemical capable of causing cancer.

Cardiac sensitizer - Chemical which, upon repeated exposure, can in

some persons cause the heart to become sensitive to the stimulant

properties of epinephrine (which is produced by the body’s adrenal

glands). Subsequent exposure to the sensitizer may cause fatal

cardiac arrhythmias. Some chlorinated solvents are sensitizers.
CAS number - Chemical Abstract System number. A unique number

used to identify each chemical.

Caustic soda - see Lye

Central nervous system depressant- Chemical toxic to neurons in

the brain. With increasing acute exposure, CNS depressants cause

headache, dizziness, confusion, euphoria, drowsiness, loss of

consciousness and death through inhibition of breathing. Chronic

exposure may cause tremors, personality changes, visual

impairment, and loss of hearing, memory, or intellectual capacity.

Many organic solvents are CNS depressants.

Chlorine [ CAS No. 7782-56-5 ] (including sodium hypochlorite,

Clorox) - Strong oxidizer. Produces toxic chloramine gas when

mixed with ammoniated cleaning products. Corrosive to eyes and

skin. Fumes are irritating or corrosive to the respiratory tract. Can

kill microscopic life in waterways, septic tanks and sewage treatment

plants. Toxic to aquatic life

Uses: Bleach, disinfectants, all-purpose cleaners, mildew remover,

bathroom cleaners, spot removers, or in scouring powders.

Chlorine dioxide [ CAS No. 10049-04-4 ] (chlorine oxide) - Strong

oxidizing gas which can be dissolved in cold water. It may react with

hot water or steam to produce toxic and corrosive fumes of

hydrochloric acid. Severe respiratory and eye irritant.

Uses: bactericide & antiseptic

Chronic health effects - Effects which generally occur as a result of

long-term exposure, and are of long duration. Examples include

cancer, liver damage and chronic bronchitis.

Combustible - A substance having a flash point at or above 100

Fahrenheit up to and including 150 Fahrenheit, according to the

Consumer Product Safety Commission. The Occupational Safety and

Health Administration defines a combustible liquid as having a

flashpoint at or above 100 Fahrenheit but below 200 Fahrenheit.

Corrosive - Chemical which, upon contact can cause deep tissue

damage, such as burns to eyes or skin.

Dicholoromethane - see Methylene chloride

Dimethylbenzene - see Xylene

Dyes - (Includes azo, basic, disperse, fiber-reactive, vat dyes and

fluorescent agents) May cause allergic reactions.

Uses: As colorants or whitening agents in many products, including

all-purpose cleaners, disinfectants, fabric softeners.

Ethanol (alcohol) [ CAS No. 64-17-5 ] - Clear liquid which can be

absorbed by inhalation and across skin. Central nervous system

depressant. Vapors can produce some eye and upper respiratory

tract irritation.

Uses: Detergents, disinfectants, carpet cleaners, tub and tile cleaners,

air fresheners.

32 ! Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary
Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether: See 2-Butoxy ethanol

Flammable - a substance having a flash point above 20 and

below100 Fahrenheit, according to the Consumer Product Safety

Commission. An extremely flammable substance has a flashpoint at

or below 20 Fahrenheit.

Fragrances - Any of 4,000 chemicals. May cause skin irritation

discoloration, rashes or allergic reactions. May be irritating to the

eyes and respiratory tract.

Uses: Many cleaning products, either to simulate the scent of “fresh

air”, flowers, etc., or to mask odors of other chemicals in the product.

Incompatible - Chemicals which are incompatible react violently or

produce toxic byproducts. 

Irritation - Redness, swelling or tissue damage caused by chemicals.

The degree of irritation is dependent on dose. Chemical irritation

may result in mild skin itching, or fatal damage to the lungs.

LC50/ Lethal concentration - A measure of acute toxicity. The lethal

concentration that if inhaled will kill half of a group of organisms in

an experiment in a given time. In EPA’s Toxic Substances Control

Act program, a chronic LC50 or EC50 < 0.1 mg/L is highly toxic; 0.1

mg/L < chronic LC50 or EC50 < 10 mg/L is moderately toxic; and a

chronic LC50 or EC50 > 10 mg/L is a low toxicity.

LD50/ Lethal dose - A measure of acute toxicity. The lethal dose

that will kill 50% of lab animals exposed to it orally or through the

skin. The lower the LD50, the more toxic the compound.

Limonene (d-Limonene, 4-isopropenyl-1-methylcyclohexene [ CAS

No. 5989-27-5 ] ) - A flammable, colorless liquid found in some

plants. Skin irritant, sensitizer. If ingested in sufficient quantity, may

be toxic to kidneys. When heated to decomposition, emits acrid

smoke, fumes.

Uses: aerosol, non-aerosol deodorants/air fresheners, bathroom tub

and tile cleaners, hard surface cleaners, liquid laundry detergents,

dry cleaning pre-spotter, polishing preparations, mechanics soap,

oven cleaners, rug/upholstery cleaners, other specialty cleaning and

sanitation products

Lye (caustic soda, sodium hydroxide [ CAS No. 1310-73-2 ] ,

potassium hydroxide [ CAS No. 1310-58-3]) - Corrosive white

crystals or colorless liquid. Liquid may cause severe eye burns or

blindness, or skin burns with subsequent tissue scarring. Vapors are

irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract. Aerosol formulations

present an inhalation hazard.

Uses: Drain opener, oven cleaner, detergents.

Methylbenzene - see Toluene

Methylene Chloride (methylene dichloride; dichloromethane) [ CAS

No. 75-09-2 ]. Colorless liquid. Incompatible with strong oxidizers

and caustics. Central nervous system depressant. Probable human

carcinogen.

Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary ! 33
Uses: Disinfectant, all-purpose cleaner, degreaser, septic tank cleaner,

laundry starch preparations, rug and upholstery cleaners.

Monobutyl ethylene glycol - see 2-Butoxy ethanol

Naphtha see Petroleum distillates

Naphthalene [ CAS No. 91-20-3 ] White crystalline solid with the

odor of mothballs. Skin exposure may cause severe dermatitis.

Irritating to eyes and respiratory tract. Inhalation may cause

headache, nausea, confusion, damage to red blood cells. Possible

human carcinogen.

Uses: Detergents, air fresheners, spotters.

Nitrobenzene [ CAS No. 98-95-3 ] - A yellow oily liquid with an

odor like shoe polish. May be absorbed via inhalation and through

the skin. Chronic inhalation may cause liver damage. May bind

with blood to reduce oxygen availability. Central nervous system

depressant.

Uses: Furniture polish, floor polish.

Organic chemical - A chemical which contains carbon. Chemicals

which do not contain carbon are termed “inorganic.”

Oxidizer (oxidizing agent) - A chemical capable of reacting with

other chemicals in an “oxidation” reaction. Chemical reactions

involving strong oxidizers may release heat or be explosive.

pH - A measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. A pH of 7 is

considered neutral. A pH greater than 7 indicates alkalinity. A pH

less than 7 indicates acidity. In the absence of specific test data on

irritation, pH provides some insight into whether a product will be

corrosive or cause irritation. Products with very high or very low

pH (11.5 or 2) should be assumed to be corrosive. High or low pH

values (e.g., between 9 and 11, or between 4 and 2) indicate the

product would be more irritating than neutral pH products where

the pH is closer to 7.

Perchloroethylene (tetrachloroethylene; ethylene tetrachloride;

PERC) [ CAS No. 127-18-4 ] - Colorless volatile liquid about 1 1⁄2

times heavier than water. Central nervous system depressant, liver

and kidney toxicant. Inhalation may cause respiratory tract irritation

or cardiac arrhythmias. Irritating to the skin and eyes on direct

contact. When released in water, can smother small aquatic life. Can

be toxic to sewage treatment bacteria.

Uses: Graffiti remover, carpet spotter, metal cleaner, degreaser, dry

cleaning solvent, furniture polish, household hard surface cleaners,

laundry starch preparations, oven cleaner.

Petroleum distillates - The lighter liquid hydrocarbons refined from

crude oil by distillation, including petroleum ether, naphtha, mineral

oil, mineral spirits, Stoddard solvent and kerosene. (Heavier

distillates include lubricating oil, grease, paraffin wax and asphalt;

gaseous distillates include propane, butane). Liquid petroleum

distillates contain varying, but usually small amounts of aromatic

34 ! Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary
hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, xylene, cycloparaffins, naphthenes).

Liquid petroleum distillates are flammable. They are skin, eye and

respiratory tract irritants. See also VOC. 

Uses: Found in many janitorial cleaning products.

Phenol (carbolic acid) [ CAS No. 108-95-2 ] - Colorless crystals,

which can be dissolved in water or some organic solvents. Liquids

have sweetish, sickening odor and can burn skin and eyes. In

aqueous solution, phenol is not highly volatile, but it is readily

absorbed through the skin. Abnormal pigmentation commonly

occurs following dermal contact with phenolic compounds. Vapors

are strongly irritating to eyes, nose and throat. Exposure by

inhalation to a low concentration of phenol six times for five minutes

produced increased sensitivity to light.

Uses: In detergents, disinfectants, deodorants, furniture polish, air

fresheners, mold and mildew removers.

Phosphates - Environmental hazard. Phosphate-containing

compounds increase biological oxygen demand in surface water. 

Uses: In detergents, bathroom cleaners, floor strippers.

Phosphoric acid [CAS# 7664-38-2] - Colorless, odorless liquid.

Corrosive to ferrous metals and alloys. Should not be mixed with

bleach or ammonia. An irritant to the eyes, upper respiratory tract,

and skin. Phosphorus-containing compounds increase biological

oxygen demand in surface water. When used as an agent for metal

cleaning, phosphoric acid may react with impurities in the metal and

release phosphine gas.

Uses: Metal brighteners, cleaners, detergents, sanitizers.

Pine oil [CAS# 8002-09-3]- Flammable liquid. An irritant to the eyes,

upper respiratory tract, and skin. May cause mild respiratory and

central nervous system depression, and kidney toxicity.

Uses: In floor polish, glass window cleaners, hard surface cleaners,

liquid detergents, toilet bowl cleaners, disinfectants.

Potassium metabisulfite [CAS#16731-55-8] — Colorless crystals

which are soluble in water and ammonia. Dust is mildly irritating to

eyes, nose and throat. See also Sulfur compounds.

Uses: Washing powders.

Quaternary ammonium chloride (didecyl dimethyl ammonium

chloride) [CAS# 7135-51-5] A flammable liquid. Corrosive. An

irritant to the eyes, skin, upper respiratory tract. May cause central

nervous system depression. Ingestion may cause pain, swelling,

breathing difficulty, convulsions. Ammonium chloride is harmful to

aquatic life in very low concentrations.

Uses: Disinfectant, sanitizer.

Sensitizer - a chemical that causes a substantial proportion of

exposed people or animals to develop an allergic reaction after

repeated exposure to the chemical.

Sodium bisulfite - see Sulfur compounds

Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary ! 35
Sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate [ CAS No. 25155-30-0] -

Environmental hazard. Increases biological oxygen demand in

surface water. See also Biological oxygen demand.

Uses: As a wetting agent (surfactant) in heavy duty laundry

products; metal cleaners, specialty cleaners and sanitation products.

Sodium hydroxide - see Lye

Sodium hypochlorite - see Chlorine

Solvent - Liquid used to dissolve other substances. Aqueous

solvents consist primarily of water, while organic solvents can

include a variety of organic chemicals such as acetone, benzene,

toluene, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, xylene, and turpentine. Most

organic solvents are Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) that

contribute to smog problems because of their contribution to

tropospheric (ground level) ozone formation.

Sulfur compounds (including potassium metabisulfite [ CAS No.

16731-55-8 ] and sodium bisulfite [CAS No. 7631-90-5 ]) - Corrosive

irritant to skin, eyes, and mucous membranes; sulfur-containing

compounds may be allergenic and may produce skin rashes or

difficulty breathing in persons with asthma. When used in rust

removers, may produce fumes of sulfur dioxide, a respiratory

irritant.

Uses: Antioxidant and preservative in a variety of cleaning products.

Tetrachloroethylene - see Perchloroethylene

Toluene (methylbenzene) [ CAS No. 108-88-3] - Volatile, flammable

liquid with strong chemical odor. Eye, skin and respiratory irritant.

Central nervous system depressant. Cardiac sensitizer. Prolonged or

repeated exposure may cause liver, kidney damage or anemia.

Exposure during pregnancy may result in birth defects.

Uses: Solvent in a variety of products such as graffiti remover, floor

polish, furniture polish, laundry starch preparations, household hard

surface cleaners.

Trichloroethane (1,1,1-trichloroethane [ CAS No. 71-55-6 ]; 1,1,2-

trichloroethane [ CAS No. 79-00-5 ] ) - colorless liquid with mild

chloroform-like odor. Because it is four times heavier than air, vapors

tend to collect in low spaces. Corrosive to aluminum. Repeated

dermal exposure may result in skin irritation. Central nervous

system depressant. Cardiac sensitizer. The 1,1,1- isomer is also a

Class 1 ozone depleter (like CFCs) being phased out under the Clean

Air Act.

Uses: Solvent, degreaser, spotting fluid, drain cleaner; formerly used

as an aerosol propellant.

Trichloroethylene [ CAS No. 79-01-6 ] - Colorless liquid with mild

chloroform-like odor. Because it is four times heavier than air, vapors

tend to collect in low spaces. Suspected human carcinogen. Central

nervous system depressant. Cardiac sensitizer. Associated with

birth defects of the heart, and in animals, decreased fetal weight and

abnormal sperm.

36 ! Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary
Uses: Degreaser, solvents, graffiti remover.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) - in this context, VOC means

any organic compound (carbon containing) which has a vapor

pressure of greater than 0.1 mm Hg or, if the vapor pressure is

unknown, has 12 or fewer carbon atoms. Volatile organic chemicals

(VOCs) in cleaning products are of potential concern because of

indoor air exposures to office workers and others. They are also of

concern because they contribute to the formation of smog in outdoor

air. All VOCs, even those VOCs that do not contribute to smog

formation, are of potential concern for indoor air quality. 

Xylene (dimethylbenzene) [ CAS No. 1330-20-7 ] - Colorless,

flammable liquid with a sweet odor. May attack some forms of

plastic and rubber. Incompatible with strong oxidizers. Vapor may

cause irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Central nervous system

depressant. Chronic exposure to xylene may cause dry irritated skin,

reversible eye damage, difficulty breathing, changes in liver function,

kidney damage, anemia, and toxicity to white and red blood cells. 

Uses: Solvent, air fresheners, stainless steel cleaner, floor polish.

* The information in the Ingredient Guide and Glossary was based

upon a variety of sources. 

Information on which chemicals are in cleaning products came from

the authors, the Environmental Defense Fund’s Scorecard Internet

site at www.scorecard.org and the EPA Region V/ Purdue University

Internet site at

www.epa.gov/grtlakes/seahome/housewaste/house/mainmenu.htm.

Health effects information was extrapolated from information in the

Toxicology, Occupational Medicine and Environmental Series

(TOMES) Consolidated Point Solution (CPS) online databases, which

include the Hazardous Substances Data Bank, Meditext, Hazardtext,

the Chemical Hazard Response Information System, the National

Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Pocket Guide, the

Integrated Risk Information System, the Registry of Toxic Effects of

Chemical Substances, and the New Jersey Hazardous Substances

Fact Sheets. This resource is available through a paid subscription or

at some medical libraries. 

Abbreviated health information, precautions for use and disposal

information are available online through :

www.epa.gov/grtlakes/seahome/housewaste/house/mainmenu.htm

by clicking on the Glossary of Hazardous Products and Compounds.

Appendix B: Ingredient Guide and Glossary ! 37
38
Appendix C: The Challenge of Evaluating Cleaning Products ! 39

APPENDIX C

The Challenge of Evaluating Cleaning Products
The Challenge of Evaluating Cleaning Products

Before the Federal Hazardous Substances Act (1973) and OSHA’s

Hazard Communication Standard (final rule published in 1983,

expanded in 1987, and amended in 1994), there was little information

for assessing possible health risks from cleaning products. Today,

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are the most commonly known

sources of information for evaluating cleaning products for their

hazards or toxic constituents. A label on a cleaning product also lists

hazard warnings which supplement the MSDS. While MSDS and

product labels now provide some useful information, much could be

done to improve them. Significant shortcomings in MSDS that the

authors have found include the following:

1. THE MSDS MAY NOT COVER ALL HAZARDS. 

Manufacturers and importers of chemicals are directed by OSHA to

evaluate those chemicals and determine if they are hazardous. The

manufacturers and importers do not have to test the chemicals

themselves - they can rely on information that has already been

published. However, most chemicals have not been adequately

tested to determine their health hazard potential, especially for

chronic health effects. Therefore, the published literature is

incomplete.

Regular updates to MSDS are not required. Companies

preparing MSDS are required to update an MSDS within three

months only if they become newly aware of any significant

information regarding the hazards of a chemical or ways to protect

against the hazards. 

Manufacturers / importers are not required to include

information on the MSDS about the ecological effects of a product,

although some companies do include environmental effects

voluntarily. 

Manufacturers and importers of mixtures are not required by

OSHA to test mixtures for health hazards. If studies have not been

done on the mixture, manufacturers/importers can rely on published

Appendix C: The Challenge of Evaluating Cleaning Products 40 !

MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEETS

1. May not cover all hazards

2. May not list all chemical ingredients

3. May not be prepared by persons with the right background.

4. May contain mistakes or contradictions

5. May not contain useful explanatory information

(A separate but common problem:)

6. Information may be misinterpreted by users 
health information about the individual chemicals in the mixture.

However, effects from exposure to the mixture itself could be

different than those due to exposure to its chemical components.

The MSDS must include hazard information for chemicals that

make up 1% or more of the mixture (or 0.1% if the chemical is a

carcinogen). A 1994 amendment to the OSHA Hazard

Communication Standard clarified that a chemical in a mixture

below the 1% or 0.1% cutoff must also be included on the MSDS

when the manufacturer determines that it could present a health risk

to employees. MSDS which have not been updated since this 1994

ruling would not contain this additional information. It is not

known if all manufacturers are now in compliance with this

requirement.

Cumulative effects due to small amounts of similar chemicals

may not be shown on the MSDS. A mixture that contains several

chemicals with similar effects (e.g., solvents), where each chemical is

less than 1% of the mixture, may present a hazard which is not

discussed in the MSDS.

2. THE MSDS MAY NOT LIST ALL CHEMICAL

INGREDIENTS.

The manufacturer may claim the identity of a chemical as a trade

secret. The hazards associated with a trade secret chemical still have

to be included on the MSDS. However, without its chemical name,

the employee will not be able to find additional information about

the chemical in an ingredient guide, on the Internet or at the library. 

Chemicals that make up less than 1% (or 0.1% for carcinogens) of a

mixture are listed on the MSDS when the manufacturer has evidence

that the chemical could present a health risk to employees in those

lower concentrations. Chronic health risk studies on exposure to

small amounts of product over time are not available for many

chemicals. As a result, some chemicals with chronic health effects at

low concentrations are not likely to appear on the MSDS. 

3. MSDS MAY BE PREPARED BY PERSON(S) WITHOUT

THE APPROPRIATE BACKGROUND.

There are no OSHA requirements for the education or training of

the person(s) who prepare the MSDS. It has been the experience of

the authors and reviewers of this report that in-house technical staff

or consultants hired by the company typically write the MSDS.

However, there is no requirement that MSDS writers have expertise

in toxicology, industrial hygiene, or medicine, or that they are able to

interpret the significance of animal or human study data.

4. SOME MSDS CONTAIN MISTAKES OR CONTRADICTIONS.

OSHA is aware that there are MSDS which contain inaccurate or

insufficient information ( Hazard Communication Standard final

rulemaking, February 9, 1994, 59 FR page 6163-6164 ). For example,

Appendix C: The Challenge of Evaluating Cleaning Products ! 41
the MSDS may indicate that a product is not hazardous. Yet under

the precautionary measures, it is suggested that if the product gets

on the skin, it must be washed off immediately. OSHA believes that

the adequacy of MSDS information also needs to be improved. For

example, an MSDS may say that the product “may cause chronic

health effects” without giving the user any specifics. The authors

have found that key information, like pH, is sometimes marked “not

available.”

5. MSDS MAY NOT CONTAIN USEFUL EXPLANATORY

INFORMATION.

The language of the MSDS may be too technical. For example,

medical terms may be used that are meaningless to someone without

a medical degree. 

6. MSDS INFORMATION MAY BE MISINTERPRETED BY

USERS.

Employees and safety personnel may misinterpret the information

on an MSDS, causing misleading assumptions and resulting in work

practices that are not adequately protective. For example, a safety

manager may look at a high oral LD50 (lethal dose that will kill 50%

of lab animals exposed to it) and think it means that the product is

“safe,” even though the product may also be capable of causing a

reproductive effect like testicular atrophy with repeated exposure. 

SUGGESTIONS FOR OVERCOMING THESE MSDS

SHORTCOMINGS: 

Knowing that MSDS’s have problems, what can be done to

evaluate the hazards of current products and select environmentally

preferable products?

The first step is survey all the products in the workplace.

Read both the product label and the MSDS for each product, and

compare the chemicals named in each. The label will list more

ingredients than the MSDS. Look for warning statements on the

label, such as “CAUTION,” “WARNING,” and “DANGER.”

Manufacturers of pesticides (including antibacterial cleaners and

disinfectants) that are toxic to human beings are required by law to

include one of these words on the label. However, these words do

not have to be on the MSDS. Other indicator words to look for on

the label: 

CORROSIVE Flammable Combustible POISON 

Vapor Harmful Absorbed through Skin Causes Burns 

These or similar words are required to identify the principal

hazard(s) in consumer products under the Federal Hazardous

Substances Act.

Appendix C: The Challenge of Evaluating Cleaning Products 42 !
Call the manufacturer and ask for crucial information about the

product that is not provided on the MSDS, such as pH, or percentage

of ingredients named on the label but not on the MSDS, and

Chemical Abstract Services (CAS) number for any ingredient for

which you want more information. The CAS number is the key to

locating information about a chemical. Also look for contradictory

statements on the label and MSDS and ask the company about them. 

Use an ingredient guide like the one in Appendix B of this report to

identify hazards associated with chemicals on the label and on the

MSDS. Information in an ingredient guide should be compiled from

a variety of recognized medical and toxicological sources. These

sources are available at large public and most medical libraries.

Some information is available online at sites like the Environmental

Defense Fund’s Scorecard website -

http://www.scorecard.org/chemical-profiles. 

Be wary of advertising terms, like “non-toxic,” that aren’t defined

by government regulations. According to the Federal Trade

Commission, terms like “environmentally friendly” and

“environmentally safe” must have clear and prominent qualifying

language that explains how the product is safer or better for the

environment. Always look for information on the label, MSDS, in

product literature and in the ingredient guide which can support

these broad claims. If adequate explanatory information isn’t given,

call the manufacturer. If the manufacturer does not provide specifics,

then shop elsewhere. For more information on evaluating “green”

labeling claims, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s web site at:

www.ftc.gov/bcp/grnrule/guide980427.htm.

Be cautious of the term “biodegradable.” All organic products will

biodegrade eventually. The key is that the all the ingredients in a

product should be readily biodegradable in a short amount of time.

Ask the manufacturer to explain what they mean by

“biodegradable.” Remember: a disinfectant will kill the

microorganisms responsible for biodegradation. For this reason,

limit the use of disinfectants.

After identifying the chemicals in the workplace and their hazards,

you should decide on the level of commitment your organization has

to environmentally preferable purchasing. You can select products

that are somewhat better than commonly used cleaning products.

For example, you could decide to use only products which do not

have the terms “DANGER” or “WARNING” on the label, and do not

contain phosphates. Or you could decide to go as “green” as the

marketplace can give you, which is what the parks and the Santa

Monica city government have tried to do. There are shades of

“green” between these two approaches.

If purchasing for a large organization with the resources to screen

cleaning products, you could use the bid specifications for

environmentally preferable janitorial products developed by the City

Appendix C: The Challenge of Evaluating Cleaning Products ! 43
of Santa Monica [see Appendix E]. At the time of this report, Santa

Monica had implemented the most comprehensive bid specifications

in the United States, based upon the knowledge and experience of

the authors. 

For example, Santa Monica requires the submission of certain

important information about the product. If that information is not

provided, the product is not considered further. In addition to the

required information, the city’s bid specifications ask for information

on other desirable environmental and health attributes. These bid

specifications could be supplemented with additional requirements

of special importance to any agency or location. However, avoid

adding specifications that require costly tests. Expensive testing

requirements would eliminate smaller companies from bidding.

Some small companies have been leaders in developing

environmentally preferable cleaning products.

If adopting a screening process, it is important that the bid process

disqualifies vendors who do not submit complete information in a

“required” category. In addition, vendors whose response in a

relative ranking section is incomplete should receive the lowest score

for that section. These steps will put the burden on the manufacturer

to fully disclose the information needed for an evaluation.

Appendix C: The Challenge of Evaluating Cleaning Products 44 !
APPENDIX D

Products Used at Yellowstone and Grand Teton

National Parks

Appendix D: Products used at Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks ! 45
Products Used at Yellowstone and

Grand Teton National Parks

As of the end of this project, Yellowstone National Park was using

the following cleaning products. Many of these products have been

used by the City of Santa Monica in their janitorial operations.

General Cleaning Products Used Throughout Yellowstone: 

Air freshener - plant-based deodorizer. Used for deodorizing

restrooms and masking odors.

All purpose cleaner - a pH neutral, biodegradable concentrated

cleaner made from plants. Works in cold water. Used for floors,

surfaces, walls and spotting.

Bathroom cleaner - two products, both made from renewable

resources. One is acid free. The other is made from food grade citric

acid and has a pH of 2.5. Used for sinks, bowls, and showers.

Bowl cleaner - a mildly acidic citric cleaner for routine use to

dissolve mineral deposits, and as a back-up for the bathroom cleaner.

Degreaser cleaner - contains plant-based solvents, wetting agents

and alkaline detergents. (pH = 9.5) Dilutes with water. Used for

automotive, industrial and kitchen soils or oils.

Disinfectant - a quaternary ammonium chloride disinfectant.

Used for disinfecting specific areas such as toilets.

Enzyme stain treatment - made from natural enzymes and

vegetable-based surfactants. Used for floors around urinals, and

wherever organic matter is a problem.

Furniture polish - Used for furniture and log cleaning and

polishing. Free of petroleum solvents and volatile organic

compounds (VOC’s). Nozinc or wax.

Glass and window cleaner - biodegradable, contains no fuming

solvents, butyl ethers, ammonia or denatured alcohol. Used for

glass, display cases and windows.

Liquid hand soap - a plant-based soap that works with hot or

cold water. Used in metal hand soap dispensers. 

Appendix D: Products used at Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks 46 !

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Specialized Cleaning Products Used in Limited Applications:

Note: the products in bold type do not meet the Santa

Monica specifications.

Degreaser - contains petroleum distillates. Used for toughest

degreasing on shop floors.

Delimer / Descaler - contains phosphoric acid. Stronger than

general use product. Used for cases of extreme heavy buildups of

lime or scale.

Drain and septic treatment - Vegetable-based product, with

bacterial enzymes. Used for cleaning drain lines, digesting organic

matter over a period of days, and for longer lasting odor control in

areas such as garbage cans and around urinals.

Floor finish - used for floor care needs. 

Floor stripper - stripper/cleaner; dilute with water. Does not

contain corrosives, caustics, ammonia or 2-butoxy-ethanol. 

Graffiti remover - has 70% plant-based ingredients. Contains some

petroleum distillates (no carcinogens, mutagens or teratogens). Removes

graffiti on hard surfaces such as signs, rocks, painted walls, etc.

Natural solvent spotter - Vegetable-based cleaner. Used for

removing gum, goo, tar, grease and adhesives.

Oven cleaner - pH of 10.5. Used occasionally in employee

housing. Used by one of the Yellowstone concessionaires in their

kitchens.

Cleaning Products used at Grand Teton National Park:

Note: the product in bold type does not meet the Santa

Monica specifications.

Appendix D: Products used at Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks ! 47

!

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Enzyme stain treatment 

Furniture polish

Glass and window cleaner

Laundry detergent

Liquid hand soap

Air freshener

All purpose cleaner

Bathroom cleaner

Delimer / Descaler

Drain and septic treatment

Carpet extraction - cleaner, deodorizer and grease emulsifier; dilute

with water
48
Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications ! 49

APPENDIX E

City of Santa Monica Bid Specifications 
Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications 50 !

If you have questions about the City of Santa Monica’s bid specifications,

you may call:

Sandy Schubert, Environmental Analyst

Environmental Programs Division

City of Santa Monica

200 Santa Monica Pier, Suite 1

Santa Monica, CA 90401-3126

sandy-schubert@ci.santa-monica.ca.us

(310) 458-2255
City of Santa Monica

Custodial Products Bid Specifications

1998

Introduction

The City of Santa Monica has updated the procurement process for custodial/ maintenance

products allowing the City to better evaluate the overall worker health and environmental

impacts associated with their use. This program is consistent with and integral to Santa

Monicaís Sustainable City Program. For each product submitted for consideration, the vendor

must complete a Product Reporting Form (see below) with appropriate back-up documentation

attached by staple in the upper left corner. Documentation for training can be submitted as a

separate attachment. Please find enclosed the following materials:

I. General Guidelines

A. Documentation Guidelines

B. Product categories requested in the bid

C. Product performance testing program

D. Product specification description

II. Reporting Form Instructions

A. Pass-Fail Section

B. Relative Ranking Section

III. Reporting Forms

A. Custodial Product Reporting Forms

B. Employee Training Form

C. Other Attributes Form

The City encourages you to participate in this innovative opportunity to help safeguard the

health of our employees, the community, and the environment.

An informational bidderís conference is scheduled to be held on ó at

ñ. All Bidders are strongly urged to attend this meeting.

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications ! 51
I General Guidelines

A) Documentation Guidelines

When submitting documents to the City of Santa Monica, vendors are required to

comply with the following guidelines:

* All copies shall be printed on recycled and/or tree free paper.

* All copies shall be double-sided.

* Report covers or binders shall be recyclable, use of plastic covers or dividers

should be avoided.

* Unnecessary attachments or documents not specifically asked for should not be

submitted. Avoid superfluous use of paper (e.g. separate title sheets or chapter

dividers).

These guidelines were developed as part of Santa Monicaís Sustainable City Program to

promote waste reduction and resource conservation within the community. Thank you for your

cooperation in this important effort.

B) Product categories:

The following is a list of product categories the City requires for custodial purposes. Each

product submitted must be identified with one of these categories. 

All Purpose Cleaner Glass and Window Cleaner

Bathroom Cleaner Deodorizer

Lime and Scale Remover Liquid Hand Soap

Degreaser/Cleaner Carpet Shampoo (rotary brush)

Furniture Polish Chrome Polish/Cleaner

Graffiti Remover Brass Polish/Cleaner

Floor Finish Disinfectant

Floor Stripper Enzymatic Cleaner/Degreaser

Wood Floor wax/cleaner Solvent Spotter/Gum Remover

It is desirable that vendors be able to supply the greatest number of products listed above

meeting the health and environmental specifications. Vendors of single products are

encouraged to partner with other manufacturers or distributors to maximize the Cityís

administrative convenience.

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications 52 !
C) Product Performance Testing:

After the products in each category have been assigned a point score, the City will determine

the number of most favorably scored products to be tested for their performance. The City will

request samples from the supplier, from 3 one pint bottles up to 3 one gallon bottles depending

on the application. City custodians will test each of the products on the job and will rank each

product according to its performance. City staff will use this ranking to make a short list from

which to evaluate the cost consideration and administrative convenience of the product or

product line. Those products which rate the most favorably will be approved for purchase by

all City departments.

D) Product Specification Description:

The City has compiled a set of specifications (see below) that will be used to evaluate the

environmental and health impacts of various cleaning products which the City will be

considering for purchase. The specifications require the supplier to submit a wide range of

specific information regarding such elements as product chemical characteristics, packaging,

and training capabilities. The specifications are divided into two groups: 1)mandatory or

pass/fail, and 2)relative ranking. It is the responsibility of the bidder to make sure that all

the requested information is included in the submitted bid package.

Pass-Fail Section: Products which do not meet the mandatory specifications or for which the

appropriate information has not been submitted will be disqualified from further consideration. 

Relative ranking specifications: The information submitted by the bidder will be used to

assign a point value for each specification for purposes of calculating a cumulative score for

each product. The greater the point score the more favorable the product. If any information in

the relative ranking section is missing or incomplete the product will be assigned the least

favorable score for that specification. For example, if no documentation is submitted on the

productís pH, the product will receive 0 points for that specification. Products will be compared

within an individual product category (i.e. floor strippers, glass/window cleaners). 

Reporting Forms: These forms must be copied by the vendor and submitted for each product

under consideration. The Training and Other Attribute forms do not have to be duplicated for

each product category, a single copy of each is all that is required from each vendor.

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications ! 53
II. Reporting Form Instructions

When one product is intended for use in more than one product category:

If a single product fulfills more than one category (i.e. can serve as a glass cleaner and as an all

purpose cleaner for walls etc.) then all appropriate categories should be listed on the top of the

Product Reporting Form. One set of Product Reporting Forms and associated back-up

documentation should be submitted in the bid package for a product that meets several

categories. 

Proprietary Information

The City is requesting full disclosure of all contents including both inert and active ingredients

in the proposed products. Any and all information submitted to the City for purposes of rating

the acceptability of a proposed product shall be treated as proprietary and maintained in the

strictest confidence.

A) Pass Fail Section:

Please note that failure to meet the standards of any of the pass-fail criteria listed below will

lead to the automatic rejection of that product. In addition, failure to submit responses to any

pass-fail criteria will render your bid for that product as ìunresponsiveî and lead to the

rejection of that product.

1. SARA Title III, Sect. 313

No ingredient shall require reporting under EPAís Superfund Amendments and Re-authorization

Act (SARA Title III, Section 313). The ingredients requiring reporting under this act represent

some of the most acutely toxic chemicals used in cleaning products. The City believes that

these aggressive chemicals are no longer required in most cleaning product categories and seeks

to protect the health of its workers by minimizing exposure to the chemicals. Floor care

products and metal polishes are exempted from this mandatory criteria. 

Acceptable response - If all ingredients over trace amounts are not listed

on the msds than a certification from the product 

manufacturer will be required

2. Disinfectants in cleaners

No cleaners shall contain disinfectants. Because proper/adequate disinfection of a surface

requires that the surface be cleaned prior to disinfecting, the City wishes to separate out the

cleaning and disinfecting processes. Eliminating disinfectants from all purpose, bathroom and

floor cleaners will reduce the toxicity of these products and will reduce the amount of

disinfectant chemicals used in City operations. A separate product category for disinfectants is

included separate from cleaners.

Acceptable response - if all ingredients over trace amounts are not listed

on the msds then a certification from the product

manufacturer will be required

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications 54 !
3. Aerosol cans

No products shall be delivered in aerosol cans. The City believes that no aerosol container can

be considered truly empty of product and propellant. Recycling such partially filled aerosol

cans is extremely expensive and requires specially handling by hazardous waste technicians.

All product categories must be available in a non-aerosol formulation such as ready-to-use

pump action sprays, air-charged refillable containers, or concentrates that can be dispensed into

spray bottles for use.

Acceptable response - description of delivery system

4. Carcinogens, Mutagens, Teratogens

No ingredients can be classified as known or probable carcinogens, teratogens, or mutagens on

any of the following lists: 

a. California Safe Drinking Water And Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986 (Prop. 65), CCR

Title 22, Division 2, Subdivision 1, Chapter 3 Section 12000 et seq.)

b. National Toxicology Program (NTP)

c. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Group 1, 2A or 2B

d. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulated carcinogen

While ingredients listed in the above documents are rare in todayís cleaning product

formulations, the City wishes to eliminate them entirely from the products which are purchased

for use in City operations. Such chronic toxins are no longer necessary for the efficacy of

current cleaning technologies.

Acceptable response - reference on msds or certification by product

manufacturer. (Note all the above lists must be 

addressed in your response)

5. APEís

No products shall contain Alkyl phenyl ethoxylates (APEís) above trace amounts. The City

recognizes the potential danger to wildlife and humans when hormonal mimics, such as APEís

are released into water systems. Further, the persistence of the break down products of APEís

make the issue of bio-accumulation a special concern and are not consistent with the

requirement for ready biodegradability.

Acceptable response - if all ingredients over trace amounts are not listed

on the msds then a certification from the product

manufacturer will be required

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications ! 55
6. Ozone Depleting Compounds

No products shall contain ozone depleting chlorinated compounds. Section 5600-5609 of the

Santa Monica Municipal Code bans the use and sale of products containing chlorinated

fluorocarbons. 

Acceptable response - if all ingredients over trace amounts are not listed 

on the msds than a certification from the product 

manufacturer will be required

7. VOCís

Products must meet or exceed the California Code of Regulations (Article 2 Section 94509,

Title 17 ) maximum allowable Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) levels for appropriate

cleaning product categories. Because of concerns over air quality, the State of California

regulates the VOC levels of various consumer products. The City wishes to extend these

thresholds to all industrial use cleaning products. 

Acceptable response - VOC levels must be stated as a percent of VOC by 

weight at the minimum recommended dilution and 

at the concentrate level. The dilution at which the 

%VOC content was calculated must be submitted 

(i.e. at 50% dilution, %VOC was 5%, at 

concentrate, %VOC was 8%). Note: For the bid to 

be accepted, VOC levels must be reported in units 

of %, not in grams per liter.

Appropriate test methods and legal limits can be found in the California Code of Regulations,

Title 17. Contact the State of Californiaís Air Resources Board for further clarification if

needed (916) 327-1503.

8. Biodegradability

All surfactants and other organic chemical ingredients must meet the Organization for

Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) definition of Readily Biodegradable. The

City wishes to protect the ocean habitat which supports the local economy and quality of life

for residents and, therefore, is concerned with the environmental fate of chemicals used in City

operations.

Acceptable response - independent lab results achieving the following 

parameters on one of the following tests:

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications 56 !
DOC Die-Away Test 60% Theoretical CO2 Evolution

MITI I Test 60% Theoretical Oxygen Demand

Closed Bottle Test 60% Theoretical Oxygen Demand

CO2 Evolution Test 60% Theoretical CO2 Evolution

Modified OECD Screening Test 70% Dissolved Organic Carbon

Manimetric Respirometry Test 60% Theoretical Oxygen Demand

These values must be met within 10 days of reaching 10% and must also be met

within 28 days of the beginning of the test.

Requirements for simulation tests as substitutes for the above tests are available

from the OECD or the EPA. The acceptability of these other tests will be

decided on a case-by-case basis.

NOTE: For disinfectants, the biocide ingredient is exempt from this criteria.

B) Relative Ranking Section:

Because a single set of criteria can not be developed for all product categories the following

characteristics will be judged on a relative ranking basis. Point scores will be assigned to each

criteria that are reflective of the Cityís priorities concerning protection of human health and that

of the environment. The higher the score the more favorable the evaluation. If no

documentation is included in the bid packet to address a criteria, the product will be

automatically awarded the lowest or least favorable score for that criteria.

Again, the criteria relate to either whole product or each individual ingredient present in greater

than trace amounts in the concentrate formulation (formulation as delivered to the City).

9. Lethal Doses

As defined by the California Code of Regulations, Chapter 11, Article 3, Section 66261.24:

Whole product LD50(oral) prefer > 5,000 mg/kg. 

Whole product LD50 (skin) prefer > 4,300 mg/kg

Whole product LC50 (inhalation) prefer > 10,000 parts per million 

If no whole product data is available then data must be provided for each ingredient present in

the concentrate in over trace amounts. While such lethal dose values do not always translate

neatly from animal to human systems, the City believes that they provide a readily accessible

means of comparing the acute toxicity of various products. By selecting products with higher

lethal dose levels, the City will better safeguard the health of workers coming in daily contact

with these chemicals. 

Acceptable response - reference on msds or certification by product 

manufacturer or independent lab.

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications ! 57
10. Product pH

Identify the pH of the whole product in concentrate form. The City is concerned over the

exposure of City Staff to potentially corrosive chemicals and wishes to reduce the likelihood of

on-the job injury.

Acceptable response - msds or certification from manufacturer

11. Skin Irritation Index

Identify the primary dermal irritation index (PDII) for whole product when possible, and in

concentrate form. The City is concerned over the exposure of City Staff to potentially irritating

chemicals and wishes to reduce exposure. 

Acceptable responses:

A. Animal Testing

1). US Department of Transportation, 49CFR173.240

2). US EPA Acute Toxicity Testing Criteria for New Chemical 

Substances, Office of Toxic Substances EPA Document 560/13-79-009

3). US CPSC, Federal Hazardous Substance Act Regulations, 

16CFR1500.41

4). OECD Guidelines for Testing Chemicals, Section 404, ìAcute dermal 

irritation/corrosion.î Organisation for Economic Cooperation and 

Development, 1981.

Human tests for skin irritation using the same index as is routine for animal tests

(primary dermal irritation index) are generally acceptable. If these tests were

performed for the manufacturer or by any entity connected with the

manufacturer a copy of the original written Assurance that all testing was

conducted in compliance with the regulations set forth in 45CFR46 regarding

consent of human subjects must be provided.

B). Non-Animal Testing

Because there is no standard in vitro test for skin irritation which has

proven to predict irritation for all substances, in vitro tests predicting skin

irritation will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. For these tests to be

accepted they must be referenced in peer-reviewed literature and the

exact laboratory procedure, if it differs from the published procedure,

must be described. Documentation supporting the choice of the

particular test and why it is the best one to use for this particular product

or ingredient must be included or referenced. 

Single ingredient testing is acceptable as long as it is submitted for ALL ingredients. If

one ingredient is an irritant when tested singly but does not act as one in the product, a

skin irritation test confirming this or a substantiated technical explanation showing the

mechanism of action and reason for assumption of non-irritancy is required for points to

be earned.

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications 58 !
12. Eye Irritation:

Irritation scores should be for whole product when possible, and in the concentrate form. The

City is concerned over the exposure of City Staff to potentially irritating chemicals and wishes

to reduce exposure. 

Acceptable responses - Numerical scores or descriptive classification scale 

(described in the NAS publication ìPrinciples and 

procedures for evaluating the toxicity of household 

substancesî) for severity of ocular lesions in the 

cornea, iris, and conjunctivae for this product or for 

each ingredient using one of the following test 

methods:

A) Animal Testing

1). J.H. Draize, G. Woodard and H.O. Calvery, `Method for the study of

irritation and toxicity of substances applied topically to the skin and mucous

membranes.í J. Pharmacol.Exp.Ther., 1944, v. 82, pp. 337-390.

2). US EPA Acute Toxicity Testing Criteria for New Chemical Substances,

Office of Toxic Substances EPA Document 560/13-79-009

3). US CPSC, Federal Hazardous Substance Act Regulations, 16CFR1500.42

4). OECD Guidelines for Testing Chemicals, Section 404, ìAcute dermal

irritation/corrosion.î Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development,

1981.

5). US Intra-agency Regulatory Liaison Group, `Testing Standards and

Guidelines Working Group, Recommended Guidelines,í 1981.

6). National Research Council (US) Committee on Toxicology, `Principles and

procedures for evaluating the toxicity of household substances,í (#1138)

Washington, DC, 1964.

B) Non Animal Testing: see for dermal irritation.

Single ingredient testing: see dermal irritation.

13. Flash Point

Identify the flash point (in degrees Fahrenheit) of the product concentrate using any method

outlined in Department of Transportation regulations CFR 173.120. Chemicals are stored and

used in a wide variety of circumstances. To protect against potential fire hazards, the City

prefers chemicals with a higher flash point.

Acceptable Response: msds or certification from independent lab. 

The answer of ìnoneî is not acceptable.

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications ! 59
14. Dyes

Identify all added dyes and state whether or note they are considered food-grade. The City

considers the addition of dye and fragrances superfluous to product performance and recognizes

the potential hazard associated with some of these additives. The City prefers that product

identification for users be through a clear labeling system rather than by chemical additives.

Acceptable response - msds or certification from manufacturer

15. Added Fragrances

Identify any added fragrances and state whether or note they are considered food-grade. (Note:

does not include the natural fragrance that may result from active ingredients). See Dyes

criteria for justification.

Acceptable response - msds or certification from manufacturer

16. % VOCís

List whole product %VOC for product concentrate and minimum recommended dilution. See

pass/fail section for guidance. Because of the unique air quality concerns of the Los Angeles

air basin, and the link between VOCís and air pollution, the City wishes to purchase products

with the lowest VOC levels possible.

17. Dilution range

List the range of relevant dilutions for this product from heavy duty cleaning to daily use. (i.e.

heavy duty cleaning use full strength, daily use dilute 1 part product to 5 parts water). To

reduce the amount of packaging consumed by City Operations, the City wishes to purchase the

most concentrated formulations available for each product category.

18. Product Container Material

Identify the type of material used in construction of the product container. If plastic, list the

numbered type of plastic (i.e. #1-7). The City wishes to maximize its recycling opportunities

by purchasing plastics of the types #1-5.

19. Aquatic Toxicity

Provide a measure of the aquatic toxicity for the product or its ingredients. The City is situated

adjacent to the Santa Monica Bay and seeks to protect this habitat from potential environmental

toxicants.

Acceptable measures include EC50: Daphnia, fish, or 

algae. Include certification letter from independent

lab listing values and test used. 

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications 60 !
20. Employee Training

The City believes that an effective training program is central to the success of using

environmentally preferable products. The City will look for vendors who can supply a quality

training effort and be accessible to trouble shoot problem applications. 

Describe the level of employee training available to City and contract staff regarding the use of

your products. Complete section entitled ìEmployee Trainingî once. A separate form is not

required for each product submitted for consideration.

In order to receive points for this criterion, bidders must complete the questions listed on the

Training Information Form. If this form is not included or is left blank, a score of 0 points for

this criterion will be awarded to each product submitted for consideration. Only a single copy

of this information is necessary, attach additional sheets if needed.

21. Other Attributes

The City recognizes that there may be attributes of the product that will help to assess

environmental preferability other than the ones listed in these specifications. For example,

equipment or a specific tool may be available from your company that improves the efficacy of

the product and so helps to replace the need for aggressive chemicals. Another example might

be an effective labeling program for refillable squirt bottles that will help the user to identify

the product on a shelf and so make the use of dyes or other additives unnecessary. In addition,

your company may be participating in noteworthy community additives around habitat

preservation or environmental justice. Or perhaps your manufacturing facility has an

exemplary energy/water efficiency design or a waste reduction program.

Identify any other attributes of the product or manufacturer that may assist in the evaluation of

the environmental preferability of your bid. No specific point value will be awarded to this

information. The use of this information will be at the discretion of the evaluation committee

acting on behalf of the City of Santa Monica. Complete section entitled ìOther Environmental

Attributesî only once, a separate form is not required for each product submitted for

consideration. Relevant attachments may be stapled to this form. 

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications ! 61
Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications 62 !
Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications ! 63
Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications 64 !
Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications ! 65

Employee Training Form

A. Vendor Name

B. Describe the training services available to City employees and contract

custodial staff in the City of Santa Monica. Please address training goals,

training methods, and the types of training proposed for various City

custodians and supervisors.

C. Describe costs associated with different types of training, if any.

D. List personnel who would be available to conduct on site training and their

experience in the company.

E. Provide a phone number for product questions and the hours calls will be

answered:

Phone: ________________________ Hours ___________________
Other Attributes Form:

Complete as described above. Please limit written description to this page.

Attachments may be stapled to the form.

Appendix E: City of Santa Monica 1998 Custodial Products Bid Specifications 66 !