Chemical Exposure Effects Quiz

Chemical Exposure Effects

• Exposure effects depend on the amount of chemical and its hazard level
• Local injuries affect the contact area (e.g., acid on arm)
• Systemic injuries affect organs/tissues other than contact site due to toxin transport through bloodstream (e.g., methanol ingestion causing blindness)
• Certain chemicals target specific organs (e.g., lead affects the brain, kidneys, and red blood cells; solvents can harm the liver and kidneys)
• Acute toxicity occurs from a single, short exposure, with effects appearing quickly and usually reversible
• Chronic toxicity results from repeated exposure over time, causing delayed and gradual effects, potentially irreversible
• Susceptibility to chemical effects varies based on factors including diet, physical condition, obesity, medical conditions, smoking/drinking habits, and pregnancy
• Sensitization occurs with repeated exposure to certain substances, leading to allergic rash, breathing difficulties, or other reactions that may occur with smaller exposures over time and disappear after exposure ends
• Sensitizers include epoxy resins, nickel salts, isocyanates, and formaldehyde, but not everyone exposed will experience sensitization

Particularly Hazardous Substances

• Carcinogens: chemicals that cause cancer
• Many chemicals have been evaluated for their carcinogenic potential
• Latency period for most cancers is 20-40 years
• Cancer risk increases with longer exposure and higher concentration
• 'Human carcinogen' indicates clear evidence of cancer-causing ability in humans
• 'Suspected human carcinogen' refers to chemicals shown to cause cancer in multiple animal species, suggesting potential human risk
• Reproductive Toxins: chemicals affecting reproductive systems, including:
• Mutagens: causing chromosomal damage
• Teratogens: causing fetal malformations
• Embryotoxins: lethal to fertilized eggs, embryos, or fetuses, causing growth retardation or postnatal functional deficits
• Other reproductive toxins may cause sterility or affect sperm motility
• Some chemicals cross the placenta, affecting the fetus, who may be more sensitive to certain chemicals, especially during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy
• Proper handling and protective equipment are crucial to reduce fetal exposure
• Known human teratogens include organic mercury compounds, lead compounds, ionizing radiation, some drugs, alcohol ingestion, and cigarette smoking
• Substances affecting male reproductive health include 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane, cadmium, mercury, boron, lead, some pesticides, and drugs
• Over 800 chemicals are teratogenic in animal models, many suspected human teratogens

Chemical Accidents

• Accidents can occur at home or in the workplace
• Examples:
• 1997 explosion in Aachen, Germany, caused by flammable ethanol vapor ignited by a match, injuring 21 children
• UP Manila laboratory closure in 2007 due to a chemical spill causing a small explosion
• Baby hospitalized in General Santos City after ingesting kerosene mistaken for water

Globally Harmonized System (GHS)

• Different classification and labelling systems exist across countries and even within the same country
• GHS aims to standardize this, classifying hazards and communicating information on labels and safety data sheets (SDS) globally
• Benefits of GHS:
• Promotes regulatory efficiency
• Facilitates trade
• Eases compliance
• Reduces costs
• Provides consistent hazard information
• Encourages safe chemical handling and use
• Improves emergency response to chemical incidents
• Reduces the need for animal testing
• Harmonizes classification criteria for physical, health, and ecological hazards
• Harmonizes communication regarding:
  • Hazardous substance labeling
  • Material safety data sheets
  • Transport labeling of dangerous goods
  • Occupational health and safety
  • Consumer protection

First Aid for Burns

• Light burns: wash with cold water for 10 minutes
• Severe burns: apply antiseptic and seek medical attention
• Acid burns: apply polyethylene glycol 400 or calcium gluconate
• Light wounds: wrap with a band-aid
• Severe wounds: apply antiseptic and a band-aid to control bleeding

Evacuation Procedures

• Exit to a safe place
• Assist handicapped individuals
• Avoid running or panicking
• Do not use elevators (potential for getting stuck)
• Go to ground level and into the open air
• Proceed to the designated assembly point
• Do not return to the building until it is deemed safe

Emergency Exits

• Clear signage indicating the closest exit
• Equipped with emergency lighting
• Never locked
• Free from obstructions (bags, equipment)
• Directly connected to emergency stairs

Preventing Fires

• Avoid placing hot objects near flammable materials
• Keep drinks away from electrical equipment
• Never leave cooking unattended
• Maintain clean ovens and microwaves
• Use low browning settings on toasters and regularly empty crumb trays
• Regularly check and service appliances
• Clean lint trays in tumble dryers daily
• Keep areas tidy to prevent dust buildup on electrical equipment
• Ensure regular building cleaning
• Placing articles too close to heat:
  • Tea towel near cooking appliances
  • Candles knocked over
  • Tin foil at the bottom of the oven
  • Clothes on heaters
• Prevention tips for articles near heat:
• Electrical equipment generates heat, so store flammable materials away from it
• Never place clothes on heating devices
• Avoid using tin foil near the bottom of the oven
• Use common sense: store flammable materials away from hot objects
• Arson prevention:
  • Install sprinkler systems where possible
  • Use CCTV as a deterrent
  • Securely store rubbish to prevent ignition
  • Securely lock building and windows
  • Maintain a safe smoking area away from the building
• Fire risk assessment:
  • Conduct regular assessments
  • Identify sources of ignition, fuel, and oxygen
  • Develop strategies to reduce or eliminate risks

Fire Extinguishers

• Familiarize yourself with the location, function, and use of fire extinguishers
• Regularly check and maintain extinguishers

Fire safety training

• Conduct regular fire safety training
• Keep everyone informed and safe