Choking Agents - Metal Fume

Choking Agents injure an unprotected person chiefly in the respiratory tract. In extreme cases, membranes swell, lungs become filled with liquid (pulmonary edema), and death results from lack of oxygen. Some agents may also pose a dermal hazard. 

Human toxicity data for these agents has not been published or has not been established. However, the industrial IDLH levels for these agents are as low as 2 ppms. 

Pulmonary effects are usually delayed 2 to 24 hours. Exposure to high concentrations may produce immediate symptoms. Generally, the more rapid the onset of symptoms, the more grave the prognosis. 

Agents are odorless solids dispersed as aerosols from incendiary devices. Depending on various factors, the aerosol may or may not be visible. 

Aerosols of agents are not persistent. However, the solid agents can persist in the environment for extended periods. Since the primary route of exposure to Metal Fume Choking Agents is through inhalation and agents have very little vapor pressure, there is minimal risk once the initial aerosol has settled. 

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Metal Fume Choking Agents are metal oxides deployed as dust aerosols that have no appreciable vapor. Once the aerosols settle, there is minimal extended hazard from the agents unless the dust is re-suspended. Oxides are generally insoluble in water. 

Metal Fume Choking Agents are generally deployed by an incendiary device. In addition, agents may be volatilized during a fire or be spread by efforts to extinguish the fire. 

Metal Fume Choking Agents are primarily a respiratory hazard however, contact with solid agents may pose both a local and systemic hazard. Wear appropriate fully encapsulating protective gear with positive pressure... 

Combustion Metal Fume Choking Agents are combustion decomposi-... 

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