Toxicological aspects of fire.

Abstract

Most fatalities from fires are not due to burns, but are a result of inhalation of toxic gases produced during combustion. Fire produces a complex toxic environment, involving flame, heat, oxygen depletion, smoke and toxic gases. As a wide variety of synthetic materials is used in buildings (insulation, furniture, carpeting, electric wiring covering, decorative items), the potential for poisoning from inhalation of products of combustion is continuously increasing. In the present review, the problems that are present in a fire event, the toxicology of the toxic substances and the specific chemical hazards to firefighters are described. Regulatory toxicology aspects are presented concerning the use of non-flammable building and furnishing materials to prevent fires and decrease of poisonings and deaths resulting from fires.

• Authors: M Stefanidou, S Athanaselis
• Journal: Veterinary and human toxicology (Vet Hum Toxicol) Vol. 46 Issue 4 Pg. 196-9 (Aug 2004) ISSN: 0145-6296 [Print] United States
• PMID: 15303394 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Air Pollutants

Topics

• Air Pollutants (toxicity)
• Fires
• Gas Poisoning (etiology)
• Humans
• Occupational Diseases (etiology)
• Occupational Exposure (adverse effects)