What is the primary disadvantage of using bleach for cleaning biohazards?

Using bleach for cleaning biohazards primarily poses the disadvantage of producing toxic fumes. When bleach is mixed with other substances, particularly ammonia or certain acids, it can release chlorine gas, which is harmful to human health. This risk of inhalation can create dangerous situations for cleanup workers and anyone present in the area.

Moreover, while bleach is a powerful disinfectant effective against many pathogens, the associated fumes and the possibility of harmful interactions with other substances make it a less desirable option in certain situations. Safety precautions, such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensuring adequate ventilation, are critical to mitigate these risks when bleach is used.

The other options do not address the immediate danger posed by toxic fumes and are less significant concerns in comparison. For instance, while bleach can be cost-effective, concerns about expense typically do not outweigh the potential health risks. Adequate training for using bleach isn't necessarily specialized beyond typical safety training, and there are pathogens against which bleach is effective. Thus, the toxicity of fumes stands out as the primary disadvantage.