- Author
- Hartzell, G. E.
- Title
- Criteria and Methods for Evaluation of Toxic Hazard.
- Coporate
- Southwest Research Inst., San Antonio, TX
- Journal
- Fire Safety Journal, Vol. 12, No. 3, 179-182, December 1987
- Book or Conf
- Society of Fire Protection Engineers. Quantitative Methods for Life Safety Analysis. Symposium. March 5-7, 1986., College Park, MD, 10 p., 1987
- Keywords
- toxic hazards | thermal burns
- Abstract
- Numerous hazards to humans result from exposure to the products of combustion of fires. Predominant among these are effects from heat, visual obscuration due to the density of smoke or to eye irritation, narcosis from inhalation of asphyxiants and irritation of the upper and/or lower respiratory tracts. These effects, often occurring simultaneously in a fire, contribute to physical incapacitation, loss of motor coordination, faulty judgement, disorientation, restricted vision, and panic. The resulting delay or prevention of escape may lead to subsequent injury or death from further inhalation of toxic gases and/or the suffering of thermal burns. Survivors from a fire situation may also experience post-exposure pulmonary complications and burn injuries which can lead to delayed death.