December 23, 2011

The dangers of aerosol cans

Yesterday I had been to the birthday party of my friend's eight year old daughter. The kids were playing with an aerosol can which generated foam thread, when pressed. None of the kids were aware of the hazards of the aerosol can and that the gas used as a propellant was flammable! What does this have to do with process safety? We also use aerosol cans for dye checking or lubricating/removing rust etc. Read the warnings on the can before you use them. Propane and butane are often used as propellants and the escaping gas can catch fire if a source of ignition is present. Also do not dispose empty aerosol cans in a fire. They can explode.
Thanks to R.Sriram for sending these tips on aerosol cans:
  • Aerosols contain a product and a propellant that are packed under pressure.  
  • Many people use aerosols without realizing some of the potential hazards associated with them. 
  • Oven cleaners, tile cleaners, pesticides, disinfectants, hair sprays, room deodorizers, paints, and furniture polishes are examples of aerosol products. 
  • When the nozzle of an aerosol is pressed, the product and propellant are released from the container in a fine mist. The actual product propelled by the aerosol, such as some oven cleaners, can be corrosive, flammable, or poisonous. Acute symptoms of aerosol exposure include headache, nausea, dizziness, shortness of breath, throat irritation, and skin rash. 
  • A misdirected spray can cause eye injury and chemical burns. 
  • Never leave or place an aerosol can near high heat sources, such as a heater, direct sunlight, or fire. 
  • Keep aerosol cans away from children and pets. 
  • Never puncture or subject an aerosol can to sharp impact; a sudden puncture may cause an explosion. 
  • Dispose the Aerosols in a proper way.

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