Alcohol-based sanitizers have become part and parcel of the lives of Kenyans and the world at large, after the outbreak of Coronavirus (Covid-19).
In Kenya, the government set out to produce and distribute free sanitizers to the public, as it continues fighting against the pandemic. However, as much as it has become an easily accessible commodity, safety precautions for this good should be adhered to as it may end up putting one's life at risk.
According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), one of the ingredients composed in a sanitizer is alcohol, which comprises nearly 60 per cent. In Kenya OSHA, under the Ministry of Labour trains on occupational safety and health, first aid and fire safety.
Alcohol-based sanitizers are classified as Class I flammable liquid substances, that's why in every sanitizer, a notice informs the consumer of precautions to undertake, including keeping them away from fire and from the reach of children.
Fires arising from this flammable commodity can generate carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide which are a health a hazard as they can lead to breathing difficulties and lead to death after ingestion.
In case of a spillage of hand sanitizer, all potential ignition sources such as gas, stoves, jikos, should be removed from the area to mitigate a potential fire outbreak. The spilt liquid should then be cleaned up with water.
Apart from storing the sanitizers away from ignition sources, they should also be put away from any types of electrical outlets, switches or equipment, and extreme heat. This is the reason as to why motorists are advised not to leave their sanitizers in their vehicles if not in immediate use.
They should also not be allowed to come into contact with an oxidizing agent such as acetyl chloride.
In case of a fire, alcohol foam, Carbon dioxide and dry chemical extinguishers are recommended to extinguish the fire.
Another risk possessed is consumption, which may lead to poisoning. For poisoning, first aid is advised in regulation with the Red Cross and Ministry of Health with an immediate call for emergency response.
"A patient will be required to only take a lot of water to flush the chemicals and then be taken to a doctor. An alcohol-based sanitizer is manufactured to kill germs so its side effects are not that worse in comparison to other chemicals. However, one should also be monitored in case of such a scenario," Snaida Ayub, a professional counsellor informed Kenyans.co.ke on Tuesday, April 14.
