Chemical usage had entered into our human daily life. The convenience & effectiveness had usually blind our rational in decision if using a chemical is required. Nonetheless, chemicals had already establish a firm ground to stay, for a very long time. They may appear in solid, liquid or gas form. Some may be visible, some may not. Some may come with a odor, some odorless. Some can kill instantly (acute effect), others may kill you slowly (chronic effect) & some may not have significant effect on humans. So, to ensure everyone know of the potential harm associated when they use the chemicals, it's best to classify your chemical in an international format so to alert users of the danger when they attempt to use the chemical. I'd attached a Hazard Rating list (courtesy from BRADY), integrated with the types of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to be use. You may use this as a guide to classify your chemicals in ensure Chemical Safety in your workplace.
Please take note, you are to classified your chemicals ONLY via the information stated in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) of the chemical.
E.g: With reference to the chemical MSDS, you may rate a chemical with slight toxicity, a flash point of 85°F, stable condition under normal condition with recommended PPE of safety glasses & glove.
Of course, to truly understand the types of hazards associated with the chemical, it's to your best interest to read up the MSDS for more details.
• DO NOT depend on your sense of smell for indicating the continuing presence of this gas or for warning of hazardous concentrations.
Health Effects
• Low concentrations – irritation of eyes, nose, throat, or
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Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, toxic gas
Effects of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Severe carbon monoxide poisoning causes neurological
Hydrogen sulfide is a colorless, flammable, extremely hazardous gas with a “rotten egg” smell. It occurs naturally in crude petroleum and natural gas, and can be produced by the breakdown of organic matter in the absence of oxygen gas and human/ animal wastes (e.g., sewage). It is heavier than air and can collect in low-lying and enclosed, poorly ventilated areas such as basements, manholes, sewer lines and underground telephone/electrical vaults.
Skeletal formula of hydrogen sulfide with two dimensions Ball-and-stick model of hydrogen sulfide Extremely Flammable F+ Very Toxic T+ Dangerous for the Environment (Nature) N
Detection by Smell
• Can be smelled at low levels, but with continuous low level exposure or at higher concentrations you lose your ability to smell the gas even though it is still present.
At high concentrations – your ability to smell the gas can be lost instantly.
• DO NOT depend on your sense of smell for indicating the continuing presence of this gas or for warning of hazardous concentrations.
Health Effects
Health effects vary with how long, and at what level, you are exposed. Asthmatics may be at greater risk.
• Low concentrations – irritation of eyes, nose, throat, or
respiratory system; effects can be delayed.
• Moderate concentrations – more severe eye and respiratory
effects, headache, dizziness, nausea, coughing,
vomiting and difficulty breathing.
• High concentrations – shock, convulsions, unable to breathe, coma, death; effects can be extremely rapid (within a few breaths). Before Entering Areas with Possible Hydrogen Sulfide
• The air needs to be tested for the presence and concentration of hydrogen sulfide by a qualified person using test equipment. This individual also determines if fire/explosion precautions are necessary.
• If gas is present, the space should be ventilated.
• If the gas cannot be removed, use appropriate respiratory protection and any other necessary personal protective equipment (PPE), rescue and communication equipment. Atmospheres containing high concentrations (greater than 100 ppm) are considered immediately
dangerous to life and health (IDLH) and a selfcontained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is required.
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Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, toxic gas
which interferes with the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.It combines with hemoglobin to produce carboxyhemoglobin, which usurps the space in hemoglobin that normally carries oxygen, but is ineffective for delivering oxygen to bodily tissues
CO is non-irritating and can overcome persons without
warning. Many people die from CO poisoning, usually while
using gasoline powered tools and generators in buildings
or semi-enclosed spaces without adequate ventilation.
Effects of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
• Severe carbon monoxide poisoning causes neurological
damage, illness, coma and death.
Symptoms of CO exposure
• Headaches, dizziness and drowsiness.
• Nausea, vomiting, tightness across the chest.
Some Sources of Exposure
• Portable generators/generators in buildings.
• Concrete cutting saws, compressors.
• Power trowels, floor buffers, space heaters.
• Welding, gasoline powered pumps.
Preventing CO Exposure
• Never use a generator indoors or in enclosed or partially
enclosed spaces such as garages, crawl spaces,
and basements. Opening windows and doors in an
enclosed space may prevent CO buildup.
• Make sure the generator has 3-4 feet of clear space on
all sides and above it to ensure adequate ventilation.
• Do not use a generator outdoors if placed near doors,
windows or vents which could allow CO to enter and
build up in occupied spaces.
• When using space heaters and stoves ensure that they
are in good working order to reduce CO buildup, and
never use in enclosed spaces or indoors.
• Consider using tools powered by electricity or compressed
air, if available.
• If you experience symptoms of CO poisoning get to
fresh air right away and seek immediate medical attention.