What effect does antifreeze have on the human body?
During this stage, the body continues to metabolize the chemicals in antifreeze into toxic acids. These acids lower the pH level of the blood, which leads to a condition called metabolic acidosis. At this point, antifreeze poisoning will start to affect multiple organs, including the kidneys, brain, lungs, and liver.
Is antifreeze a hazardous substance?
NFPA is the National Fire Protection Association. It classifies substances according to their fire and explosion hazard. NIOSH is the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. It tests equipment, evaluates and approves respirators, conducts studies of workplace hazards, and proposes standards to OSHA.
How does antifreeze affect the environment?
Potential Environmental Impacts: Antifreeze can pollute groundwater, surface water and drinking water supplies if dumped, spilled or leaked, and is harmful to marine and aquatic life. While in an engine, antifreeze can become contaminated with lead or fuel to the point where it must be managed as a hazardous waste.
What is the action of antifreeze substances?
antifreeze, any substance that lowers the freezing point of water, protecting a system from the ill effects of ice formation. Antifreezes, such as ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, commonly added to water in automobile cooling systems prevent damage to radiators.
What are the side effects of ethylene glycol?
Initial adverse health effects caused by ethylene glycol intoxication include:
- central nervous system depression,
- intoxication,
- euphoria,
- stupor, and.
- respiratory depression.
- Nausea and vomiting may occur as a result of gastrointestinal irritation.
Why do alcoholics drink antifreeze?
Alcoholics may also drink it as a substitute for alcohol (ethanol). Ethylene glycol is itself relatively nontoxic. However, it is metabolized (changed) in the body by the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase into glycolic acid, glyoxylic acid and oxalic acid, which are highly toxic compounds.
How does ethylene glycol cause hazard to human health?
Ethylene glycol breaks down into toxic compounds in the body. Ethylene glycol and its toxic byproducts first affect the central nervous system (CNS), then the heart, and finally the kidneys. Ingesting enough can cause death.
Is glycol harmful to humans?
Ethylene glycol is highly toxic to humans and is not used in food products. Summary Propylene glycol is a synthetic, colorless, odorless, tasteless liquid that belongs to the same chemical class as alcohol.
What are the disadvantages of antifreeze?
At high temperatures, glycols decompose to form organic acids which adversely affect metals resulting in leakage of radiators. Another prominent disadvantage of Glycols is the health effects because it is a poisonous substance. Ethylene glycols are sweet in odour and taste and attract animals and children.
What are the dangers of coolant?
As your body continues to break down the antifreeze over the next several hours, the chemical can interfere with your kidney, lung, brain, and nervous system function. Organ damage can occur 24 to 72 hours after ingestion. You may also develop: rapid breathing.
Where does antifreeze go in your car?
Antifreeze typically goes into the coolant reservoir in your vehicle. Some older vehicles lack a coolant reservoir, in which case the antifreeze goes into the radiator. Whether you’re looking for the coolant reservoir or radiator cap, you’ll find this under the hood, though the exact placement varies by vehicle.
What are the long term effects of ethylene glycol poisoning?
Ethylene glycol poisoning is poisoning caused by drinking ethylene glycol. Early symptoms include intoxication, vomiting and abdominal pain. Later symptoms may include a decreased level of consciousness, headache, and seizures. Long term outcomes may include kidney failure and brain damage.