Cyanide Decontamination

[go to: Decontamination Section for details]

For asphyxiants a 5% bleach solution is suggested for the decontamination of liquid or solid chemical exposure. Decontamination should not be necessary for cyanogen chloride or hydrogen cyanide.

CYANIDE (AC and CK) GAS EFFECTS
Moderate from low concentration	Severe from high concentration
Transient increase in rate and depth of breathing	Transient increase in rate and depth of breathing	15 seconds
Dizziness	Convulsions	30 seconds
Nausea, vomiting	Cessation of respiration	2 - 4 minutes
Headache	Cessation of heartbeat	4 - 8 minutes
Eye irritation
Moderate may progress to severe effects if exposure continues. The time of onset of these effects depends on the concentration, but is often within minutes after exposure.

Self Protection

The only protection from Cyanide is a properly fit and filtered gas mask.

Actions

The rapid onset of symptoms may preclude the first responder from rendering aid. The symptoms shown in the table may occur within moments and lead rapidly to death. Rapid evacuation will improve the casualty's chances for survival. If the casualty can still talk and walk without difficulty after exposure he will survive.