OXYGEN

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Oxygen is a colorless, odorless gas. The main health hazard associated with releases of this gas is its powerful oxidizing power. In high oxygen content atmospheres, common combustible materials can become highly flammable. Emergency responders must practice extreme caution when approaching oxygen releases because of the extreme fire potential. SYMPTOMS OF OVER-EXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of over-exposure for this product is by inhalation. INHALATION: High concentrations (80% or more) of this gas can cause an oxygen-rich environment. Individuals breathing such an atmosphere for durations of 17-24 hours may experience symptoms which include nasal stuffiness, nausea, dizziness, bronchial irritation (cough), sore throat, hypothermia, increased depth of respiration, bradycardia, pulmonary discomfort (including chest pain), peripheral vasoconstriction, amblyopia (loss of vision). Inhalation of pure oxygen at atmospheric pressure or less can cause pulmonary irritation and edema after 24 hours.

Potential health effects

OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE An Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to Oxygen may cause the following health effects: ACUTE: Individuals breathing oxygen-enriched atmospheres may experience nasal stuffiness, nausea, dizziness, coughing, sore throat, hypothermia, disturbed breathing, chest pain, and loss of vision. CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic exposure to this gas. TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system.