CHLORINE
FACT SHEET
What is chlorine?
Chlorine is sometimes in the form of a toxic gas. The toxic gas stays close to the ground and spreads rapidly. Chlorine gas appears to be yellow-green. This gas is recognized by its overpowering, nauseating smell, which it is like the odor of bleach. The strong smell may provide an adequate warning to people that they have been exposed. Chlorine is used in industry and found in some household products.
How can you be exposed to chlorine?
Your exposure to chlorine will depend on how close you are to the place where it was released.
If chlorine gas or liquid is released, you may be exposed through breathing contaminated air, eating contaminated food or touching or drinking contaminated water.
What are the symptoms?
If you are exposed to elevated concentrations of chlorine, you may exhibit the following symptoms: coughing, chest tightness, watery eyes, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, fluid in lungs within 2 to 4 hours, burning sensation in the nose, throat, and eyes and hard to breathe or shortness of breath
What should I do if I think I have been exposed to chlorine?
If you think that you have been exposed to chlorine, leave the area and get to fresh air. Remove your clothing that has liquid on it. Place the items in a plastic bag and seal. Put the bag into a second bag and seal. As quickly as possible, wash your entire body with soap and water. If your eyes are burning or vision is blurred, rinse your eyes with plain water for 10 to 15 minutes. If you wear glasses, wash them with soap and water. You can put your eyeglasses back on after you wash them. If you wear contact lenses, remove them and place them with the contaminated clothing inside a plastic bag and seal. If you have ingested chlorine, do not induce vomiting or drink fluids. Call 911 for medical attention and removal of the contaminated items. Do not drive yourself to the hospital as you may become very ill on your way.
How is the chlorine exposure treated?
There is no antidote that exists for chlorine exposure. Treatment consists of removing the chlorine from the body as soon as possible and providing supportive medical care in a hospital setting.
Where can I get more information on chlorine?
Regional poison control center (1-800-222-1222)
Source of Information
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)