Hazard alert poster depicts proper personal protective equipment and signs of exposure.
Hazard Alert: Know the dangers of cyanide - download and share
Cyanide Information Sheet - download and share
Signs of exposure
- Causes changes in breathing
- Eye irritation, bloodshot eyes
- Cherry red skin
- Headache and dizziness
- Feeling sick and throwing up
- Change in heart rate
- Confusion and agitation
Cyanide is a corrosive harmful chemical used industrial processes like gold extraction and in laboratories.
- It can be a liquid, solid, or gas
- Even a small amount can be deadly when it directly enters the body
- Stops cells from delivering oxygen to the body
- Ontario has a specific occupational exposure limit
Chemical-resistant personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn
- Hardhat
- Full-face respirator with a combination organic vapour, acid gas, and particulate cartridge or filter to protect against any cyanide dust in the air
- During emergency response, use full-face-piece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
- Totally encapsulating chemical-resistant suit or disposable coveralls (hooded, elastic cuffs, attached boots)
- Wear clothing under disposable coverall
- Chemical-resistant gloves (inner and outer layer)
- Chemical-resistant boots with steel toe (optional attached boots or boot covers)
French version: Alerte de danger au cyanure : Connaître les dangers du cyanure