SAS Urban Survival Handbook (41 page)

Some drugs such as sedatives, tranquillizers, sleeping tablets – even anti-histamines and alcohol – do NOT combine well with exposure to solvents. The liver cannot process the chemicals and there is an increase of the narcotic effects (the dizziness, loss of concentration, stupor). DON’T risk exposure if you are on medication. DON’T drive or operate machinery if you are affected.

FORMALDEHYDE

There is much debate on the safety of cavity-wall insulating foam – used in many countries. The danger is that (depending on conditions such as moisture and humidity) it may release formaldehyde vapour. It is probably reasonably safe if totally contained – between two brick or block walls – less so if used behind a flimsy partition wall. The official view varies from country to country – but links are being investigated between formaldehyde and various forms of cancer.

Levels registered in all cases are very low – but it may be wise, if you are considering foam insulation, to make sure the contractor is a registered user and his/her methods are covered by national seals of approval.

Formaldehyde is known to be an irritant of the upper respiratory passages. Symptoms may include: headaches, depression, insomnia, recurrent coughs and colds, asthma and gastrointestinal problems. Old people and young children may be more at risk.

Several weeks after the foam has ‘cured’, the release of formaldehyde decreases. There is a background level of formaldehyde in most home – from processed woods like plywood and chipboard (which may offer problems to the DIY enthusiast or joiner – see DIY/CRAFT HAZARDS: Wood dust), resin glues for wood, cyanoacrylate (instant) glues, resinous plastic and even foam-backed carpets.

AEROSOLS

The use of aerosols is a very sensitive issue in most countries – especially aerosols linked to damage caused to the ozone layer by propellant gases. Safe alternatives should be sought, also, because there are immediate and long-term health risks to the user.

The mist of chemicals produced during spraying can enter the lungs. Quite common products may cause inflammation of the nasal and throat membranes, asthma and chest irritations. There are plausible links to more serious chest complaints after long-term use.

Care should obviously be taken with hair sprays, throat sprays, deodorants and perfumes – any products which are applied directly to the body, near the face.

KITCHEN/LIVING AREAS

Washing-up liquid/washing powders

These have fairly low toxicity. They could cause vomiting or gastrointestinal upsets. Inhaling bubbles could cause aspiration pneumonia.
Skin contact 2 or 3/Eye contact 2.
DON’T hand wash with machine powders, particularly if they contain enzymes, as chronic dermatitis is a common result. Always rinse off skin. The enzymes used not only break down proteins such as those found in egg or gravy but also body proteins such as blood, skin and mucous membrane. Inhalation MUST be avoided.
Skin contact 3/Eye contact 2

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REMEMBER TO REFER TO EMERGENCY! PANEL FOR FIRST-AID GUIDANCE THROUGHOUT THIS SECTION

Oven cleaners

Usually highly corrosive—whether as sprays or impregnated into foam pads. They (commonly) contain caustic soda (sodium hydroxide). If swallowed or inhaled seek urgent medical attention.
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Skin contact 3/Eye contact 2

Shoe polish

The wax involved may cause gastrointestinal upset if swallowed, and diarrhoea. The solvents may include ethanol, toluene or xylene—which are more serious. If swallowed by a child, seek medical attention.
Skin contact 1

Mothballs/mothproofing

May contain naphthalene, which is highly toxic, or paradichlorobenzene—which is less so. May also contain permethrin (see
Flying insect killer
). If swallowed by a child and there is any doubt about the amount swallowed and the nature of the product, seek urgent medical attention.
DO NOT GIVE MILK
to the casualty (or any liquid). Milk will speed the absorption of the naphthalene into the body. Mothballs (especially those containing naphthalene) should be stored in the shed/garage.
Skin contact 1 or 2

Bleaches

May contain caustic soda (sodium hydroxide), chlorine or ammonia. If swallowed, particularly by a child, give milk or water to sip and seek medical attention. Fumes may be severely irritating to the eyes, nose and throat—avoid breathing them. NEVER mix bleaches with any other cleaner—a violent reaction producing choking fumes may result.
Skin contact 3/Eye contact 2

Liquid ammonia

A highly-unpleasant irritant that produces choking fumes. DON’T mix with other chemicals. If swallowed, seek medical attention, or give water to sip. Judge by discomfort/distress/ amount swallowed.
Skin contact 3/Eye contact 2.
Seek medical attention if skin or eyes are ‘burnt’.

Glass cleaner

Products for mirror- and window-cleaning may contain petroleum-related products or alcohol and ammonia. If sprayed, avoid breathing mist as lung damage may occur. If swallowed, medical attention may be urgent.
Skin contact 2/Eye contact 2

Felt-tip pens

Always make sure coloured pens given to children are NON-TOXIC. Some contain solvents. Some may contain aniline dyes which could cause severe poisoning if the pens are sucked. Breathing difficulties may occur and the skin would probably take on a bluish tone. Seek medical attention.

Matches

Apart from the obvious fire dangers, matches are also poisonous. The phosphorus in ‘strike anywhere’ matches may cause liver damage if chewed. So-called ‘safety’ matches are less harmful—but could cause gastrointestinal problems.

REMEMBER

Never store matches where children can even see them. Never store matches near any flammable substances.

Glues

Most
water-based glues
for paper are non-toxic. Look for ones so labelled—particularly if children are to use them. Glues containing solvents should only be used in the home under well-ventilated conditions.

Instant glues
(cyanoacrylates) produce toxic irritant fumes which should not be inhaled. The toxic effects of these glues has not been fully understood yet. The fumes may be linked to immediate or delayed asthma, but in domestic use the quantities used are very small. If the fingers become stuck, trying to free them from an object or from each other might tear the skin. Tiny areas of adhesion may be gently eased apart in warm soapy water with the aid of a blunt spatula or the handle of a spoon. Larger areas need MEDICAL ATTENTION. If any glue goes in the eyes or mouth, URGENT medical attention should be sought.

‘Airplane’ or modelmaking glues
and certain
spray glues
contain toluene—a toxic solvent. Avoid breathing the fumes. NEVER breathe in the spray (a mask is advisable) as long-term use may well result in lung damage. If overexposed to the fumes of these glues there may be vomiting, cramp, impaired breathing, loss of body heat and a reduction in blood pressure—even unconsciousness and death in some cases (usually only when the substance has been severely abused).
Skin contact 2/Eye contact 2

Butane

In many homes this is used to fuel: cigarette and gas-oven lighters, portable gas heaters, cordless curling tongs and some DIY blow torches. Avoid breathing butane gas—and keep away from children, especially the small lighter-fuel-size cannisters. If inhaled to the level where vomiting, headaches or slurred speech are occurring—
get to fresh air at once
and
seek medical attention.
Skin contact with the liquid gas may cause ‘burns’ similar to frostbite.
Skin contact 2 or 3/Eye contact 2 (using WARM water). Seek medical attention.

Furniture polish

Solid kinds may contain white spirit (see
Turpentine substitute
), petroleum-related substances or other solvents.

Avoid breathing the fumes—or even excessive skin contact.
Skin contact 1.
Don’t breathe in the spray mist from aerosol polishes—they may contain alcohol, or petroleum-related substances or silicone wax. The effects on the lungs could be severe. Avoid ingesting any kind of polish. Small amounts may not do any harm, but
urgent
medical attention should be sought if a child consumes a large amount.
Skin contact 1/Eye contact 1

Disinfectants

NEVER use for medicinal purposes unless directed—and then ONLY as directed. If ingested, it could be very serious. The central nervous system may be affected. There may be fainting or unconsciousness. The lips and all tissues down the throat may be very sore. Seek urgent medical attention.
Skin contact 2 or 3/Eye contact 2

Metal polishes

Most contain a solvent and ammonia. AVOID breathing fumes. Wear gloves during use and dispose of polishing cloths, which may also be contaminated with toxic metal particles.
Skin contact 2/Eye contact 1

Washing soda

Sodium carbonate is fairly caustic. If swallowed give water, followed by milk/egg mixture with a little vinegar. Seek medical attention.
Skin contact 2 or 3/Eye contact 2

BATHROOM/LAVATORY

Surgical spirit

Dangerous if swallowed—especially by children. Risks include lowering of blood sugar levels (hypoglycaemia) and possible convulsions or unconsciousness. Medical attention may be urgently required—permanent damage to the eyes may occur. Give a child a spoonful of sugar or glucose to boost blood sugar levels.
Eye contact 1

Nail varnish/varnish remover

Contain solvents—often acetone. There may be sensitivity reactions to the nails and skin, with headaches and nausea from the fumes. Always apply in a well-ventilated area. Ingestion is unlikely—but does occur. Monitor condition and seek medical assistance if necessary.
Eye contact 2

Deodorants

Some people may be sensitive to the perfumes or alcohol (in some kinds). See the directions, which usually tell you NOT to use on sensitive or broken skin. If armpits are shaved, the risk of a local reaction is dramatically increased. Anti-perspirants may actually block pores—and lead to a severe infection. Never spray anti-perspirants all over yourself. You would interfere with your body’s cooling process. If in aerosol form, do NOT breathe the mist. Many deodorants contain aluminium compounds. Aluminium is a potentially-toxic metal. Vaginal deodorants (and bubble baths) have been linked with urethritis and cystitis. If a child swallows deodorant, seek medical attention.
Eye contact 1

Perfumes/toilet water/aftershave

The danger arises mainly from the alcohol content. If enough has been swallowed, there may be a dramatic drop in blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) and possibly convulsions or unconsciousness. A child should be given a spoonful of sugar or glucose to boost sugar levels—and urgent medical attention sought.
Eye contact 1

REMEMBER

Many cosmetics may cause adverse reactions—from rashes and itching, to breathing irritation and headaches. Acute sensitivity to perfumes and other ingredients may produce recurrent cold symptoms and regular headaches. If testing a new product, ALWAYS dab a little on a soft area of skin—such as the inner forearm—and wait 48 hours before further application.

Hair colourants and bleaches

ALWAYS follow the manufacturers’ instructions—particularly regarding sensitivity tests. DON’T take this lightly. A wholehead application could be very serious and temporarily disfiguring if you have a bad reaction. Allergic/dermatitic reactions are common. Sensitivity may develop with prolonged use. Never use on a child without expert supervision. If swallowed, particularly by a child, give water to sip and seek medical advice.
Skin contact 1, 2 or 3/Eye contact 2

Talcum powder

Allergic skin reactions are common—especially in areas such as the armpit (particularly if it has been shaved). AVOID all cheap talc if not by a known manufacturer. VERY strange contaminants have been found—even serious enough to cause death. Talc may contain potentially-toxic compounds of magnesium and aluminium. Do NOT allow children to play with talc. Avoid ingestion or inhalation of airborne talc. If any rash develops, discontinue use at once.
Eye contact 1