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SCMP Reporter

Chinese officials confirmed that "hundreds of tonnes" of highly poisonous sodium cyanide were being stored at a warehouse in Tianjin when it was hit by explosions last week. 
 
What is sodium cyanide?
It's a form of cyanide and appears in a white crystalline form or granular powder. It is used in the manufacture of paper, textiles and plastics.
 
Why is sodium cyanide dangerous?
When it comes into contact with water or acid, it releases a highly toxic hydrogen cyanide gas, which can cause asphyxiation and be fatal in high doses.
 
How can you be exposed to sodium cyanide and what are the symptoms?
Through breathing, drinking water, or eating food that contains it or by absorbing it through the skin. Symptoms include a sore throat, headache, shortness of breath, convulsions and unconsciousness.
Your skin and eyes will feel irritated and appear red. If you swallow food or water that is contaminated with sodium cyanide, you could experience vomiting, diarrhoea and nausea.
 
What should you do if you come into contact with sodium cyanide? 
Cyanide gas causes the most harm to humans if inhaled. You should quickly move to an open area to get as much fresh air possible. If breathing is difficult, oxygen should be supplied.
For serious cases of inhalation, tight clothing should be loosened and administration of oxygen becomes key. Avoid giving mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to an affected person as it can be hazardous.
Seek medical attention. Always remove and dispose of contaminated clothing.
Rinse your eyes with water for at least 15 minutes and remove contact lenses. Use soap and water to wash irritated skin and cover it with anti-bacterial cream.
 
What are the long-term health effects of cyanide exposure?
Serious cyanide poisoning can cause heart, brain and nerve damage.
 
Sources: US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, International Programme on Chemical Safety 


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What are the dangers of sodium cyanide?

People injured in the Tianjin explosions protest on Monday outside a hotel where the authorities held a press conference. Photo: AFP

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What are the dangers of sodium cyanide?

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Sodium cyanide dangers

Sodium cyanide dangers