Accidental exposure happens most often with children under the age of 5. The most common age for accidental exposure is age 1, followed by age 2 -- as you know, these are the ages when children are actively exploring their surroundings. In about half the cases, accidents occur while the products are in use.

Typically, accidental exposure occurs during busy periods: in the home, this is often between 4:00 and 8:00 pm, when there is maximum activity, confusion and distractions. And in child care settings, where the number of children makes germ control an even greater challenge, there are several busy periods throughout the day. Teachers and staff must be careful during these periods that no cleaning products or chemicals of any kind are in use or within sight or reach of the children. These include lunch and snack time, as well as when children are arriving at or departing from the center.