Several serious incidents have occurred recently due to mixing of draining cleaning products. These incidents resulted in one death and many severe injuries. Drain-cleaning products typically contain acids, such as sulphuric acid and hydrochloric acid, or bases, such as sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide. Mixing drain-cleaning products can result in explosive reactions and the creation of hazardous gases like hydrogen sulphide and chlorine gas. While injuries have occurred from using these products on their own, the severity of injuries can increase significantly when these products are combined. Effects reported to Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health include burns to the skin, eyes and internal lining of the respiratory system.
Drain cleaning products are useful in certain situations. However, SAFE Work Manitoba reminds employers and workers of their responsibilities, as follows.
If you have questions about this topic that are specific to your industry, please contact your industry-based safety program (IBSP).
If your industry is not currently associated with an IBSP, you’re unsure whether your industry has an IBSP or you have more general questions, please contact SAFE Work Manitoba.
The Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba serves workers and employers through a no-fault insurance system integral to the Manitoba economy. Funded collectively by employers, the WCB promotes safe and healthy workplaces, facilitates recovery and return to work, delivers compassionate and supportive compensation services to workers and employers, and ensures responsible stewardship of Manitoba's workers' compensation system.
