Air

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Air is a colorless, odorless gas. The main health hazards associated with exposure to this gas are related to the high pressure. Contact with rapidly expanding gases from a cylinder that is suddenly released can cause frostbite to exposed skin or damage to eyes. Air is generally considered non-flammable, however, Air will support combustion. A moderate cylinder rupture hazard exists when Air, which is under pressure, is subject to heat or flames. SYMPTOMS OF OVER-EXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of over-exposure for air is by inhalation at elevated or reduced pressure. INHALATION: Air is non-toxic and necessary to support life. Inhalation of Air in high pressure environments, such as underwater diving or hyperbolic chambers can result in symptoms similar to over-exposure to pure oxygen. These symptoms include tingling of the fingers and toes, abnormal sensations, along with impaired coordination and confusion. Decompression sickness, “bends”, is possible following rapid decompression. CONTACT WITH SKIN or EYES: Contact with rapidly expanding gases (which are released under high pressure) may cause frostbite. Symptoms of frostbite include change in skin color to white or grayish-yellow. The pain after contact with liquid can quickly subside. Contact with the rapidly expanding vapors released the high pressure cylinder may cause freezing of the eye. Permanent eye damage or blindness could result.

Potential health effects

OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE: An Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to Air may cause the following health effects: ACUTE: The most significant hazards associated with air is the pressure hazard. CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic exposure to this gas. TARGET ORGANS: ACUTE: None. CHRONIC: None