Green Cleaning & Eco-Friendly Practices Flashcards
6 cards from real HCT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Green Cleaning & Eco-Friendly Practices flashcards as text
Baking soda is commonly used as an eco-friendly cleaning agent because it:
Answer: Acts as a mild abrasive and odor absorber with low environmental toxicity
Baking soda's mild abrasiveness makes it effective for scrubbing without scratching, and its alkaline nature neutralizes acidic odors.
Which of the following should a green cleaning technician avoid when selecting cleaning products?
Answer: Products containing phosphates, as they contribute to aquatic ecosystem damage
Phosphates entering waterways cause algal blooms that deplete oxygen and devastate aquatic ecosystems, which is why many states have banned them in cleaning products.
Why is it important to properly dispose of single-use cleaning product containers rather than leaving them at the job site?
Answer: Responsible disposal reduces landfill waste and prevents chemical residue from harming the environment
Proper disposal prevents chemical residues from contaminating soil or water and reduces unnecessary plastic accumulation in landfills.
Steam cleaning is considered an eco-friendly method primarily because it:
Answer: Sanitizes using only high-temperature water vapor, eliminating the need for chemical disinfectants
High-temperature steam kills bacteria and dissolves soil using only water, reducing chemical use and associated environmental impact.
What is a Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) in the context of cleaning products, and why should technicians minimize their use?
Answer: A chemical that evaporates at room temperature and contributes to indoor air pollution and smog formation
VOCs evaporate into indoor air, causing respiratory irritation and contributing to outdoor smog when they escape through ventilation.
How does choosing fragrance-free cleaning products benefit some residential clients?
Answer: They reduce chemical exposure for clients with asthma, allergies, or chemical sensitivities
Many synthetic fragrances contain allergens or VOCs that trigger respiratory reactions in sensitive individuals, making fragrance-free options a health-conscious choice.