Warning: Hydrogen Cyanide

 

• Persons whose clothing or skin is contaminated with cyanide-containing solutions can secondarily contaminate response personnel by direct contact or through off-gassing vapor.
• Hydrogen cyanide is a colorless or pale-blue liquid at room temperature. It is very volatile, readily producing flammable and toxic concentrations at room temperature. Hydrogen cyanide gas mixes well with air, and explosive mixtures are easily formed.
• Hydrogen cyanide has a distinctive bitter almond odor, but some individuals cannot detect it and consequently, it may not provide adequate warning of hazardous concentrations.
• Hydrogen cyanide is absorbed well by inhalation and can produce death within minutes. Substantial absorption can occur through intact skin if vapor concentration is high or with direct contact with solutions, especially at high ambient temperatures and relative humidity. Exposure by any route may cause systemic effects

This gas is given off in many types of fires including structures & automobiles.

It is most noticeable in automobile fires due to the manufactures using this as a sound deadener in the “A” pillars and roof supports. It gives off a medium color Green smoke and can kill you if inhaled.

 

It is well advised to keep your SCBA on during overhaul to avoid becoming a victim.

 

Please pass this around to your friends in the fire service so that we all stay safe.