• What should I do if someone becomes ill from breathing methylene chloride?
• What do I do if someone gets methylene chloride on their skin?
• What do I do if someone gets methylene chloride in their eyes?
• What do I do if someone swallows methylene chloride?
• Is there anything else I need to know about first aid?

What should I do if someone becomes ill from breathing methylene chloride?

Take proper precautions to ensure your own safety before attempting rescue (e.g. wear appropriate protective equipment). Remove source of contamination or move victim to fresh air. If breathing has stopped, properly trained personnel should begin artificial respiration (AR) or, if heart has stopped, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. If breathing is difficult, oxygen may be beneficial if administered by trained personnel, preferably on a doctor's advice. Quickly transport victim to an emergency care facility.

What do I do if someone gets methylene chloride on their skin?

As quickly as possible, flush with lukewarm, gently flowing water for at least 20 minutes or until the chemical is removed. Under running water, remove contaminated clothing, shoes and leather goods (e.g. watchbands, belts). Obtain medical attention immediately. Completely decontaminate clothing, shoes and leather goods before re-use or discard.

What do I do if someone gets methylene chloride in their eyes?

Immediately flush the contaminated eye(s) with lukewarm, gently flowing water for 20 minutes or until the chemical is removed, while holding the eyelid(s) open. Take care not to rinse contaminated water into the unaffected eye or onto the face. Obtain medical attention immediately.

What do I do if someone swallows methylene chloride?

Never give anything by mouth if victim is rapidly losing consciousness, is unconscious or convulsing. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Have victim drink about 250 mL (8 oz.) of water to dilute material in stomach. If vomiting occurs naturally, repeat administration of water. If breathing has stopped, trained personnel should begin artificial respiration (AR) or, if the heart has stopped, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately. Quickly transport victim to an emergency facility.

Is there anything else I need to know about first aid?

Provide general supportive measures (comfort, warmth, rest). Consult a doctor and/or the nearest Poison Control Centre for all exposures except minor instances of inhalation or skin contact. All first aid procedures should be periodically reviewed by a doctor familiar with the material and its condition of use in the workplace.

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Document last updated on December 18, 1997

Copyright ©1997-2013 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety