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The Harmful Effects of Propane Gas

Propane is a highly flammable, odorless and colorless gas which is a by-product of petroleum refining and natural gas processing. Odorants are typically added to propane gas to avoid unnoticed leaks and spills. Types of odors added are rotten egg, garlic and skunk. Propane gas has several uses including aerosol repellent, refrigerant, solvent, as well as its use in manufacturing other chemicals. Propane is most commonly used to heat homes, water and for cooking. When handled with care, propane is safe for use; however, a person that handles propane incorrectly risks many harmful effects.

  1. Eye Contact

    • While handling pressurized or liquefied propane gas, any contact with a person's eye may result in momentary freezing, leading to swelling and eye damage. In such cases a person should immediately seek medical attention, and the eye must be flushed with warm water while holding the eyelids apart for approximately 15 minutes. The damage to the eye is potentially severe and precautions should be taken to avoid such contact at all times. Protective goggles are recommended when handling propane gas with the possibility of eye contact.

    Skin Contact

    • Any contact between pressurized or liquefied propane gas and a person's skin may lead to cryogenic burns, or frostbite, which is damage to the skin and tissue due to extreme cold, or other injuries. This may occur due to unsafe handling or in spill situations. Frostbitten or burned skin should not be rubbed, but immersed into lukewarm water until sensation has returned to the affected area. Skin must be kept clean and dry. If any blisters form, sterilize the area and dress with bandages. Always seek immediate medical attention. To avoid possible contact with the skin, thermal insulating gloves may be worn as well as shields.

    Overexposure

    • Handling propane gas in confined spaces may lead to overexposure. Inhaling propane gas at high concentrations is extremely dangerous and may cause many serious problems including unconsciousness, seizures, cardiac arrest and incapacitation. In severe cases, inhalation of propane may cause death by asphyxiation, or suffocation from lack of oxygen. Any person suspected of overexposure to propane gas must seek immediate medical attention. A person should be moved into fresh air and away from the source of the exposure. To avoid possible overexposure, a person should utilize a self-contained breathing apparatus in areas of oxygen deficiency.

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