When properly handled sodium perborate can be safely used as a bleaching agent in a wide range of applications.

In the event of a decomposition which can be promoted by water, direct sources of heat, and contamination with incompatible materials, sodium perborate tetrahydrate will liberate oxygen and steam which can support combustion and cause pressure bursts in confined spaces.

Decomposition in the presence of organic material can be rapid and highly exothermic, and may result in fire.