These chemicals have the advantage of low acute toxicity; consequently,
in the concentrations recommended, repeated ingestion over a period of several days is
required to produce lethal poisoning in mammals, including man.
Accidental or deliberate ingestion of these anticoagulants particularly of
the concentrates, may lead to death.
Depending on systemic levels reached, repeated prolonged exposure
may result in disease conditions ranging from prolonged bleeding from minor cuts to
serious hemorrhagic phenomena.
d. Fumigants. The Army uses fumigants for specialized problems with insect
control, particularly control of pests in stored commodities such as food and clothing.
Hydrogen phosphide gas, from aluminum phosphide, is extremely toxic to
humans in concentrations sufficient for insect control. The garlic odor is not a
dependable indicator of the presence of the gas. Appropriate gas monitoring devices
and special gas masks must be available and with the applicator at the fumigation site.
The medical authority and provost marshal should be informed of all
fumigations before they are initiated.
Symptoms of poisoning are:
--
Tightness of chest.
--
Dry cough.
--
Vomiting.
--
Diarrhea.
Early symptoms are obvious and readily reversible.
6-27. FIRST AID
a. The First Consideration. The first consideration when an accident occurs,
such as gross contamination of the body with concentrates or the inhalation of
poisonous gases, is the removal of the victim from the toxic atmosphere or from other
types of continued exposure.
b. The Second Consideration. The second consideration is artificial
respiration, if the victim is unconscious and not breathing. Medical aid must then be
obtained.
c. Simultaneous Measures. Simultaneous measures while awaiting medical
aid or en route to it would include:
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