Hazardous Chemicals in Carpets

This study was undertaken to investigate whether certain hazardous chemicals were present as components in new carpets, and if so, in what quantities. The study included analysis of eight new carpet samples that were available for retail in the UK. Some of the carpet samples contained high levels of organotins, in particular TBT (up to 47,500 ppb). One sample contained high levels (1600 ppb) of 2,2’,3,3’,4,4’,5,5’,6,6’-decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE209), a brominated flame retardant chemical. Three samples also contained significant levels of permethrin (up to 78 ppb), a pesticide used against dust mites. Five of the samples contained formaldehyde, albeit at low ppm concentrations. None of the samples contained phthalates or triclosan (an anti-microbial chemical) at levels above limits of detection. The presence of the above hazardous chemicals in carpets is of great concern given the potential for human exposure to these compounds in the indoor environment and possible impacts on health. Exposure may occur via inhalation of contaminated air, ingestion of contaminated dusts or dermal contact. Although possible impacts on health are presently uncertain, the use of chemical treatments and additives in carpets clearly represents a significant source of chemical exposure in the home. The presence of organotins, permethrin and the brominated flame retardant BDE-209 in new carpets is particularly undesirable given their hazardous properties, a matter which therefore demands urgent attention.