Tox Town: Fall 2021 by Kalina Moore

#6 Lakes

2021-09-14 20:54:52 UTC

Algae blooms is a species of algae that produce chemicals called domoic acid which are toxic to humans and other animals. If a human or animal ingests it, it can cause food poisoning, respiratory distress or even death. To protect your self form the algae blooms, don´t swim in water that appears to be dirty, don´t fish, boat, waterski etc on scummy water, don´t let children play in scummy water.

drinking water

eirawynbranton — 2021-09-14 20:57:51 UTC

1) The drinking water supplies the whole neighborhood, so if it is contaminated then all these people can potentially become sick. This location is also very close to the wastewater treatment and the Algal Blooms which may increase chances of contamination.
2)potential chemicals found in water include metals, nitrogen, bleach, salts, pesticides, toxins (produced by bacteria).
3) These contaminants can be sorted into two groups, Acute and Chronic. Acute effects cause someone to feel ill but are not permanent. On the other hand Chronic effects happen over the span of many years and include things such as cancer, liver/kidney problems, reproductive issues, etc.
4) Things to help protect against water contamination is getting your water tested, not drinking straight from ponds, creeks, rivers, etc. Even filtering your water may be beneficial and reduce your risk of drinking contaminated water.

1: Schools

dona_alhabibi — 2021-09-14 20:58:47 UTC

1: This location is an environmental health concern because there is potentially poor indoor air which can cause asthma and other respiratory problems.
2: Some potential chemicals that are found at school are, cleaning chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, and diesel fumes.
3. These chemicals are dangerous to human health because they can cause respiratory reactions and allergic reactions.
4. Some ways to protect yourself when at school is to hand sanitize often, not sharing food or drinks with friends, socially distance if you suspect someone is sick, keep doors of classrooms open and clean classrooms/ desks/ chairs after every person sat there. Use less chemicals if unnecessary.

Health Care Services

2021-09-14 20:59:02 UTC

1. This location could be an environmental health concern because there are many sick people there, with different types of medical concerns and some of them could be contagious. Also medical facilities have many different treatment substances and chemicals. In medical facilities many different tests are being done, such as x-rays which isn't good for people.

2. Some potential chemicals could be toxic cleaning and disinfecting substances. Also if treatment substances are being used incorrectly they can also be very toxic.

3.Cleaning and disinfecting chemicals are dangerous to humans because breathing them isn't healthy since some of the chemicals could be very strong.

4. Some ways to protect yourself when at health care services is to be very cautious of your surrounding, also it is important to be careful what you touch since people could be sick. Keeping your distance from others is also important in case they are sick with something that is contagious. Don't touch your eyes face to protect yourself from diseases that could be in a health care facility.

AIR POLLUTION

alexandriakalinyuk1_7 — 2021-09-14 21:01:54 UTC

1) This environmental factor is dangerous for the community because particles/gases in the air can contain toxins that make up air pollution, which can then be inhaled and lead to serious health affects.

2) Chemicals such as carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide can be found in air pollution.

3) These chemicals are known to cause cancer, birth defects, and more immediately respiratory infections, asthma, and heart disease.

4) How to Protect Yourself: keep windows closed, stay indoors, wear an N95 mask, change air filters, and use central cooling.

6. Algal Blooms

margaritadavidyuk — 2021-09-14 21:02:42 UTC

1. This location is a health concern because some species of algae produce chemicals that are toxic to humans and animals, this can cause food poisoning, respiratory distress, and death.
2. Potential chemicals that are found at this location are domoic acid which is toxic to humans and animals.
3. These chemicals are dangerous to humans because it can cause food poisoning, respiratory distress, and death.
4. Some ways to protect yourself at this location is to not swim in the water, no fishing, boating, etc. on the dirty water.

Nuclear Power Plants

luis_delgado2 — 2021-09-14 21:03:33 UTC

1) Nuclear power plants are a environmental health concern because of their production of radioactive waste. The exposure to radiation is the primary reason for health concern. Exposure to radiation causes cancer and acute radiation syndromes.
2) The potential chemicals found in nuclear power plants are uranium and plutonium.
3) They are dangerous because when plutonium particles are inhaled they are lodged into the lungs. They can kill lung cells which cause scarring and lung disease and also cancer. Uranium is also dangerous because it causes kidneys diseases.
4) Once of the ways to protect yourself is by staying as far as possible from nuclear power plants. Also lead is good to block radiation.
- Luis

#19-Microplastics

2021-09-14 21:04:04 UTC

Micro plastics is an environmental concern because these tiny pieces of plastic (< 5 mm) are in our water supplies, oceans, and food supplies.In addition to additive chemicals being associated with plastic debris, microplastics in the ocean accumulate persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and organochlorine pesticides like dichlorodiphynyltrichloroethane (DDT).Microplastics can carry a range of contaminants such as trace metals and some potentially harmful organic chemicals. These chemicals can leach from the plastic surface once in the body, increasing the potential for toxic effects. Microplastics can have carcinogenic properties, meaning they potentially cause cancer.To avoid microplastics, where a mask to not inhale the micro plastics and avoid consuming foods that contain microplastics.Also, try to change your lifestyle with eco-friendly options for everyday life like laundry,plastic free products,and materials/clothes that are compostable.

#12 - Wastewater: Elizabeth Weinhauer

elizabethweinhauer — 2021-09-14 21:05:15 UTC

1) This location could be an environmental health concern because waste water can produce methane which is toxic when inhaled. Also the waste water depicted in the diagram is near roads as well as restaurants and other buildings.

2) Potential chemicals are found in and around waste water are methane, nitrogen and phosphorus.

3) Potential danger of these chemicals to human health they are flammable, harmful to breath in, can cause less oxygen in the air and all of these chemicals are extremely toxic.

4) Some ways to protect yourself when you are near wastewater is to avoid areas were waste water is prevalent, having your windows rolled up when near waster water, and make sure you are near clean water.

-Elizabeth Weinhauer

#2: Electromagnetic Fields

izabellaataya — 2021-09-14 21:07:06 UTC

1) Why is this location an environmental health concern?
If electromagnetic fields are large enough those currents could cause stimulation of nerves and muscles or affect other biological processes. It's also been related to a cause of cancer. In the environment there is no significant affects from the fields.
2) What potential chemicals are found at this location?
EM waves are composed of oscillating magnetic and electric fields, no chemicals.
3) Why are these chemicals dangerous to human health?
There are no chemicals.
4) What are some ways to protect yourself when at this location?
Try to distance yourself from the area and not spend a lot of time there if you need to go. You can invest in EMF shields that can protect you from absorbing the radiation. Just remember Reducing EMF exposure will also save energy and protect your body.

#5 Home Toxins

valeriyabykova — 2021-09-14 21:07:19 UTC

Homes are an environmental concern because they are known to have many different factors that can affect each other and cause potential hazards to those living inside.
Potential chemicals found: BPA, Chlorine, Lead, Pesticides/Fertilizers, Asbestos
Why are these chemicals dangerous to human health?
BPA- disrupts endocrine system (linked to cardiovascular disease and diabetes)
Chlorine- breathing it in causes fluid build-up in lungs
Lead- circulates in blood and stored in bones, dangerous for pregnant women
Pesticides/Fertilizers- cause cancer, birth defects
Asbestos- inhaled dust fibers cause respiratory diseases
Some ways to protect yourself when in this location is by using chemicals found around the house carefully and being sure to get rid of these toxins in the correct way. Additionally, it is important to pay attention to what you are buying and what the ingredients are or what the product is made up of in order to make sure there is not a lot of contact with it in case it is highly toxic.

#14 - Hair & Nail Salons

2021-09-14 21:07:58 UTC

1. Hair/Nail Salons pose an environmental concern because workers and clients could be exposed to chemicals found in nail polish & glue, hair dyes, shampoos, and emollients.

2. Potential chemicals found in Hair/Nail salons include formaldehyde, nitrosamine (found in hair dyes), and toluene (found in nail polish).

3. Formaldehyde is known to cause irritation to the skin, throat, and eyes, and can even cause cancer in the case of long-term exposure. Nitrosamine is also an agent known to cause cancer in a variety of organs in the body. Toluene often causes irritation and infection of the respiratory tract.

4. Ways to protect yourself if you are at a Hair/Nail salon is by wearing a facial covering or mask. Workers are advised to wear gloves when handling hair dyes or nail polishes.

#10 - Bus Stop

minghou9 — 2021-09-14 21:08:15 UTC

- This location is an environmental health concern because it is a bus stop. And vehicles such as buses release toxic gases into the air. When the gases are inhaled in a significant amount it can cause health issues such as respiratory irritation.
- The potential chemicals found at this location are Nitrogen oxide, Carbon monoxide, and Sulfur dioxide etc.
- These chemicals are dangerous to human health because Nitrogen oxide can lead to respiratory tract infection, Sulfur dioxide can lead to chronic bronchitis and decline in pulmonary function, and carbon monoxide deprive vital organs of oxygen.
- Some ways to protect yourself when at this location are put a distance between you and the bus, wear a mask, and drink lots of water.

#11 Gas Stations/ Fuel industry

itzel_zavalza — 2021-09-14 21:09:08 UTC

1. _{The cumulative release of un-burned fuel is a public health concern because gas stations are widely distributed in residential areas and because fuel contains toxic and carcinogenic chemicals.

2. A typical gasoline mixture contains about 150 different hydrocarbons, including butane, pentane, isopentane and the BTEX compounds (benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, and xylenes). Gasoline also contains chemicals such as lubricants, anti-rust agents and anti-icing agents that are added to improve car performance.

3. While exposure to low levels of natural gas is not harmful, long-term exposure can affect your health.These chemicals can trigger respiratory problems, depression, and decrease the quality of your health.

4. Something a person can do to protect themselves from the chemicals at a gas station is by stepping away from the gas pump as your refueling your car, that way you're not closer than what you need to, to these chemicals.}

#16. Meat Processing

2021-09-14 21:09:22 UTC

This location is an environmental health concern because there are bacteria and viruses in the meats that can cause human illnesses. Potential chemicals that are found at these locations are ammonia that is used as a refrigerant, chlorine, carbon dioxide, hydrogen peroxide, and peracetic acid. These chemicals are dangerous and the potential health effects of chemicals exposures include skin rashes, eye, nose and throat irritation, burns to the skin and eyes from splashes, cough, shortness of breath, and other symptoms, depending on the chemical. Some ways to protect yourself when being at a meat processor is to never touch any of the meats and equipment unless you have gloves on. Making sure to wash your hands before and especially after if you did touch any of the meats or equipment. Being extra cautious. Only eat and drink if you are positive it was not contaminated.

Madisyn Quadra- Dry Cleaning #18

madisynquadra — 2021-09-14 21:10:03 UTC

1. Dry cleaning contains different toxic Chemicals. These substances can react in the air to form ground-level ozone (smog), which has been linked to a number of respiratory effects.

2. PERC (perchloroethylene) also known as tetrachloroethylene, and PCE.

3. This chemical creates hazardous waste, pollutes soil and air, contaminates water, and

when inhaled can cause respiratory and eye irritation, headache, dizziness and vision problems. It also stays on clothes even after leaving the location.

4.When it comes to laundering dry clean only garments at home, your best bet will always be to hand wash. But machine washing is also an option, especially for less fussy fabrics like cotton or polyester.

#12 Wastewater Treatment

jassicajawanda — 2021-09-14 21:10:47 UTC

1) This location is an environmental health concern because wastewater can produce methane which is toxic when inhaled.

2) Some potential chemicals that are found at wastewater treatment are methane and hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide and methane are the byproducts of the decomposition of organic materials that exist in the waste flows feeding the plant.

3) They are dangerous because high levels of methane or chemicals can reduce the amount of oxygen breathed from the air, which can result in vision problems, memory loss, nausea, vomiting, facial flushing and headache.

4) Some ways to protect yourself when at this location are wearing safety glasses and a face shield, because these can protect you from contact with bio hazards.

#8 Water runoff

inderpreetdhanoa — 2021-09-14 21:12:00 UTC

1.Runoff water is a concern to envirnmental health because it is a great threat to clean water. Some chemicals found in the runoff water are fertilizers, oil, pesticides, dirt, bacteria and other pollutantss.

2.Theese chemcials are dangerous to our health because this water goes to our streams, rivers, lakes and the ocean.

3.Water runoffs can also include sweage and waste which can make us very sick if close contact is made. If the water from the water runoff is accidenently intaked, respirtory, stomach and liver illnesses may occur.

4.Some ways one can protect them at a water run off is by avoiding close contact with the water and making sure proper gear is worn such as gloves, googles, and a bodysuit if one does have to go near it.

[food and cooking]

2021-09-14 21:14:19 UTC

1. Why is this location an environmental health concern?

Since our body takes in and digests food, the place where food is made and cooked is a very important place when it comes to keeping things clean and NOT mixing certain things up.

2. What potential chemicals are found at this location?

Some potential chemicals found near food and cooking are chlorine, ammonia, and iodine. Since the kitchen needs to be kept clean for cooking, these chemicals are used often.

3. Why are these chemicals dangerous to human health?

The wrong use/exposure to these chemicals may cause skin damage like burns and irritation. Other hazards may be contaminating the food with these chemicals.

4. What are some ways to protect yourself when at this location?

When people are near food or cooking, it is very important to remember to sanitize and never put cleaning products close to food, as this may be very dangerous.

Fish Farming #15

briannguyen12_7 — 2021-09-14 21:19:28 UTC

This location is an environmental health concern because fish is like the main food source. Also, the excessive use of fertilizers and chemicals can make the fish harmful to consume for humans.

Potential chemicals found are fish waste, mercury, water treatment waste, water treatment chemicals.

They are dangerous to human health because they can produce harmful effects to the human body systems like the nervous system. Also, mercury can harm woman that are pregnant because it affects the baby's growth.

Some ways to protect yourself are buying organic fish. To add on, workers should clean the farming area to make the fish clean and healthy. Also, make sure nothing was contaminated before consuming.

#21 Agriculture

simersingh — 2021-09-14 21:22:01 UTC

1. The location can have toxins such as fertilizers, dust, pesticides, and other diseases that can come from animals that are infected.

2. Chemicals found in agricultural areas can include herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, soil fumigants, desiccants, harvest aids, and natural pesticides. The most common of these chemicals are herbicides, which accounts for almost 90% of the pesticides used in agriculture.

3. These chemicals are dangerous to human health because countless studies have showed that they have been linked to cancer, Alzheimer's disease, ADHD, and birth defects.

4. Some ways to protect yourself when your at an agricultural setting is wearing work clothing that protects your body from pesticide residues, such as long-sleeved shirts, long pants, shoes, socks, and hats.

#20: Trash / Landfil

2021-09-14 21:24:57 UTC

Waste discarded at landfills can transmit diseases and tetanus. It can also cause air pollution when it's burned and even allergic reactions. Oil based, latex, spray paint, wood preservatives and stains, pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers are just some of the different chemicals that can be found here. Many of these chemicals can damage lungs and nervous systems, and irritated eyes, nose, and throats. When at these places, it is important to wear glasses, gloves, masks, helmets and even headphones in order to fully protect yourself. It is also important to wear heavy duty work boots to avoid any wounds to the skin.

#11 Gas Station/Fuel Industry

oksanahurchenko — 2021-09-15 00:25:47 UTC

1)Gas Station/Fuel Industry is a environmental health concern because gasoline and oil fumes can pollute the air, while spilled substances can contaminate the water supply. Exposure to gasoline can be harmful to one's health, and if the gas station also contains an auto repair shop, there's an added risk of being exposed to toxic fumes and chemicals.

2)Gasoline contain more than 150 chemicals.Examples of the chemicals include ozone,benzene,toluene,xylene,carbon monoxide,etc.

3)Chemicals found in gas stations are dangerous to human health because they can impair central nervous system (CNS) function and cause organ damage. Gasoline can cause respiratory difficulties and is mostly caused by BTEX. Inhaling small amounts of gasoline vapors can cause irritation to the nose and throat, as well as headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and difficulty breathing.

4)We can protect ourselves at the gas station by stand away from the gas pump, washing our hands, and to protect our children we should keep them in the car.

#3 Noise Pollution

2021-09-15 06:35:17 UTC

Loud noises can cause damage to the inner ear leading to hearing loss. Noise pollution can also lead to stress, depression, anxiety, and heart conditions. One way to protect yourself is to use hearing protection devices (such as earplugs and earmuffs) when you cannot avoid loud sounds. Make hearing protection convenient by stashing earplugs in your car or workshop for easy access