Creosote Dangers

Creosote is a combination of over 200 different chemicals derived from coal tar that's used as a wood preservative. Common objects that you'd usually preserve with creosote are railroad ties, utility poles, fence posts and any wood you'd use for the foundation of different structures. But, despite its common usage, creosote poses some dangers to your health. The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality and the Environmental Protection Agency have issued fact sheets about the risks associated with creosote exposure.

Skin Problems

• When your skin comes in brief contact with creosote, you may notice several symptoms: redness, swelling, irritation and burning. After prolonged contact, your skin will become sensitive to sunlight and develop sores.

Eye Issues

• Creosote in your eyes can lead to burning and other irritation as well as tearing. Depending on the level of exposure, creosote may damage your eyesight and make your eyes sensitive to light.

Respiratory and Digestive Symptoms

• If you breathe in creosote fumes, you may experience irritation in your nose, mouth and throat. Depending on how much exposure you received, you might also develop digestive problems. Swallowing a small amount of creosote will create the same reactions. However, you can poison yourself by drinking large amounts of this chemical. If you have creosote poisoning, you might have convulsions, enter a coma and even die. Even if you only swallow or inhale small amounts of creosote, but do so over a long period of time, your kidneys, brain and liver will suffer damage.

Cancer Risk

• The Environmental Protection Agency warns that creosote may cause cancer. Chimney sweepers, who are exposed to creosote from wood burning, have a high risk of developing skin cancer.

Environmental Contamination

• When creosote is released in the environment, it can contaminate soil and water. People, animal and plants become exposed to its chemical components and the risks they pose.