Working with Solvents Tied to Cognitive Problems (Premium)

Editor: This study found that those with less education were more affected than others by the same amount of exposure to solvents. Among the less-educated, those who were highly exposed to chlorinated and petroleum solvents, benzene, and non-benzene aromatic solvents were 14 to 36 percent more likely to have cognitive problems.

What does this suggest for our population of special needs children, some of whom will not receive a full education? All student classrooms should be “green,” and children should be taught the dangers of solvents (household chemicals that give off fumes). A few examples are hairspray, glue, and paint with VOCs, thinners, lighters, correcting fluid.