STANDARD FIRST AID TREATMENT FOR CHEMICAL EXPOSURES


Splashes on the skin 
Flood the splashed surface thoroughly with large quantities of running water for ≥10 min or until satisfied that no chemical remains in contact with the skin

Use soap to help remove splashes of solvents, solutions and chemicals known to be insoluble in water

Remove all contaminated clothing, taking care not to contaminate yourself in the process

If necessary, arrange for transport to hospital or refer for medical advice to nearest doctor

Information to accompany the casualty:
Chemical involved
Details of treatment already given
(Special procedures apply to certain chemicals, e.g. anhydrous hydrogen fluoride, aqueous hydrofluoric acid, phenol and related compounds)

Splashes in the eye 
Flood the eye thoroughly with large quantities of clean, cool water or sterile liquid from a sealed container and continue for 10–15 min

Ensure that the water bathes the eyeball by gently prising open the eyelids and keeping them apart until treatment is completed. Do not attempt to remove anything that is embedded

All eye injuries from chemicals require medical advice. Apply an eye pad and arrange transport to hospital

Information to accompany the casualty:
Chemical involved
Details of treatment already given

Inhalation of gas 
Remove the casualty from the danger area after first ensuring your own safety

Loosen clothing; administer oxygen if available
If the casualty is unconscious, place in the recovery position and watch to see if breathing stops

If breathing has stopped, apply artificial respiration by the mouth-to-mouth method; if no pulse is detectable, start cardiac compressions

If necessary, arrange transport to hospital

Information to accompany the casualty:
Gas involved
Details of treatment already given
(Special procedures apply to certain chemicals, e.g. hydrogen cyanide)

Ingestion of poisonous chemical
If the chemical has been confined to the mouth, give large quantities of water as a mouthwash; ensure that the mouthwash is not swallowed

If the chemical has been swallowed, small amounts of water may be administered, more if the chemical is corrosive; administer a specific antidote if one exists

Do not induce vomiting

Arrange transport to hospital

Information to accompany the casualty:
Chemical swallowed
Details of treatment already given
Estimate of quantity/concentration of chemical consumed

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