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Health Concerns of PVC Pipe

Poylvinyl Chloride, or PVC, is widely used in a number of products, particularly piping due to its non-corrosive features. Health concerns about PVC piping abound, primarily due to the carcinogenic toxins it can release into the environment -- notably into the water running through PVC pipes.

  1. Phthalates

    • Occupational exposure to PVC can lead to a low sperm count or infertility in males.

      Phthalates (pronounced "thalates") make PVC plastic pliable. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has labeled them a possible human carcinogen. Phthalates don't bind to the plastic in PVC and tend to leach from pipes at a rate of up to 1 percent a year. EPA studies also reveal that occupational exposure to phthalates can lead to low sperm count and infertility in adult males, as well as problems with male fetal development.

    Lead

    • Lead dust released from PVC pipes is responsible for serious health problems in humans.

      PVC contains high levels of lead. PVC piping can deteriorate from the effects of heat and sun and release dangerously high levels of lead dust. Short-term exposure to high levels of lead can cause vomiting, diarrhea, convulsions, coma or even death.

    Dioxin

    • Dioxin is a carcinogenic toxin.

      The process of manufacturing PVC piping, as well as disposing of it by incineration, releases the toxic chemical known as dioxin. The EPA classifies dioxin as a Class I Carcinogen. Reproductive and developmental problems, immune system damage and interference with hormones have all been linked to exposure to dioxin.

    Recycling

    • PVC piping can end up in landfills and leach toxins into the environment.

      PVC piping is largely not recyclable, and when burned, less energy is generated from it than was used to make it. Solid waste from incineration is produced as slag, ash, filter residue and neutralization salt residue. These solids are toxic and not recyclable. They often end up in landfills where the release of toxins into the environment can affect both humans and wildlife.

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