Many people work with hazardous materials regularly, but not everyone knows what to do when they have been exposed to dangerous chemicals. Following these four steps can save your life if you accidentally come in contact with hazardous chemicals.
Stop the Source of the Chemical
You should stop the source of the chemical immediately because it will continue to cause problems. Try to plug any leaks in containers carrying dangerous chemicals or build a barrier so they can’t spread far.
Get Fresh Air
Remove yourself from the contaminated area as quickly as you can. You need to inhale fresh air to clear your lungs, so if possible, get outside and focus on deep breathing. If you are trapped inside for any reason, get to a window away from the chemicals and let fresh air into the room.
Flush Out Your Eyes
Hazardous chemicals can take a toll on your eyesight so you need to flush your eyes quickly after you have been exposed. Use clean water to flush out your eyes for at least 15 minutes and repeat the process if you still notice significant changes in your vision.
Take a Shower
The final step is to scrub yourself from head to toe in the shower. Decontamination showers are long processes that are intended to remove any trace of chemicals from your skin. You will be expected to use special soap and scrub every inch of your body, including between your fingers and toes, to ensure the chemical doesn’t absorb into your body.
Being exposed to hazardous chemicals is scary, but knowing which steps to take after the exposure can ease your mind. Whenever you have been exposed to a hazardous material, use these four steps immediately to mitigate the risk of developing health problems as a result of the exposure. The faster you do these steps, the less likely it is that you will be affected.
