When urinal blocks containing p-Dichlorobenzene come into contact with water or urine, the compound vaporises, releasing harmful fumes into the air. Inhalation of these vapours can lead to respiratory irritation, dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Long-term exposure has been linked to more severe respiratory issues and potential damage to the liver and kidneys.

Studies on animals have shown that prolonged exposure to p-Dichlorobenzene can lead to the development of tumours in the liver and kidneys. While the direct link between p-Dichlorobenzene and human cancer is not yet fully established, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies it as a Group 2B possible human carcinogen, warranting caution regarding its usage.

Research indicates that pregnant women exposed to p-Dichlorobenzene may face an increased risk of adverse reproductive and developmental outcomes. These risks include low birth weight, developmental delays, and potential impacts on foetal development.

p-Dichlorobenzene is highly persistent in water and can leach into groundwater systems. Once in the environment, it can accumulate in aquatic organisms and lead to ecological imbalances, disrupting food chains and aquatic life.

The sublimation of p-Dichlorobenzene from urinal blocks contributes to indoor air pollution, leading to poor air quality in confined spaces like public toilets. Additionally, p-Dichlorobenzene can evaporate into the atmosphere when disposed of in landfills, contributing to outdoor air pollution.

Several countries have imposed restrictions on the use of p-Dichlorobenzene due to its potential health and environmental risks. For instance, the European Union’s Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) restricts its use in certain applications.

The risks associated with p-Dichlorobenzene in urinal blocks have prompted the development of safer alternatives. Some companies sell a benzene-free urinal cake or urinal block. These water-soluble urinal blocks are made from natural and biodegradable materials, which eliminate the need for harmful chemicals.

Urinal cleaners play a vital role in ensuring a hygienic environment by targeting bacterial growth. These products contain active ingredients, such as surfactants and disinfectants, which help break down and eliminate urine stains and bacteria that can cause foul odours and potential health risks.

Regular use of urinal cleaner helps prevent blockages caused by the build-up of mineral deposits, limescale, and debris in the urinal pipes. These cleaners reduce the risk of overflowing urinals and related maintenance costs by maintaining clear pipes.

A clean and fresh-smelling public toilet improves the overall user experience. Urinal cleaners not only remove stains and odours but also leave a pleasant fragrance, making the washroom more inviting for customers and clients.

Urinal mats can protect urinals from getting clogged up with chewing gum, paper and other rubbish that people throw into the urinal bowl. This debris can block pipes and incur additional costs when a plumber has to be called out.

Some urinal mats or urinal screens are specially designed to actively clean the urinal and the drain. This is done by releasing enzymes that attack the bacteria that cause nasty smells.

Urinal blocks or urinal cakes are formulated with deodorising agents that neutralise unpleasant odours from urinals. The blocks slowly dissolve over time, releasing fragrance and enzymes that break down odour-causing bacteria and compounds.

Unlike other solutions requiring frequent application, urinal blocks can last up to a month before needing replacement. This reduces the need for constant attention to public toilet maintenance, allowing cleaning staff to focus on other essential tasks.

Some urinal blocks are water-soluble, designed to reduce water consumption. Incorporating these blocks in waterless urinals or low-flow systems can contribute to water conservation efforts and environmental sustainability.