Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) are commonly used flame retardants, slowing the spread of flames during a fire. They are incorporated into mattresses, upholstery and other fabric and the plastic casings of computers and other electronics as well as small appliances.

Scientists, environmentalists, and fire fighters are learning that PBDEs can be toxic. Fire fighters are exposed to dense fumes and black smoke that reduces visibility when they enter a home or building with PBDE-laden materials. At home, we are also exposed everyday through household dust. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality reveals in a 2007 report that, "Household dust has been shown to contain high concentrations of PBDEs...This is a concern since children ingest a greater amount of house dust than adults due to their frequent hand-to-mouth activity..."

PBDEs are linked to liver toxicity, thyriod toxicity, and neurodevelopmental toxicity in animal and toxicological testing.

We can minimize our exposure by:

• Purchasing from retailers and manufacturers that do not use PBDEs
  
• Using a moist cloth when dusting
  
• Covering or replacing torn cushions on sofas, chairs, and car seats
  
• Removing fat from fish when preparing
  
  
  

LMG Articles of Interest - Healthy Living Library

• New Car Smell, Fall 2007
• MDEQ Seeks to Extinguish PBDEs, Fall 2007
• Fun in the Sun, Summer 2006
• Dangerous Dust Bunnies, December 2003
• Soon to be PBDE-Free; Toxic Flame Retardants Being Phased Out, December 2003
• ABCs of PBDEs, August 2003
  
  
  

Links

• Environmental Working Group; Body Burden: Flame-Retardants
• Healthy Child, Healthy World; Chemical Encylopdia: PBDE
• Healthystuff.org; Chemicals of Concern: Bromine
• International Association of Fire Fighters: Call to ban PBDEs
• Michigan Department of Environmental Quality scientific review
• Michigan Network for Children's Environmental Health: Flame Retardants
• Oregon Department of Human Services