What should I do if someone becomes ill from breathing methane?Methane is extremely flammable. Take proper precautions (e.g. remove any sources of ignition).
In general, this gas has very low toxicity, but it can act as an asphyxiant at high concentrations. If the victim has been knocked down, wear appropriate protective equipment, and use the buddy system. Remove source of contamination or move victim to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, trained personnel should administer emergency oxygen. If breathing has stopped, trained personnel should begin artificial respiration (AR) or, if the heart has stopped, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or automated external defibrillation (AED) immediately. Quickly transport victim to an emergency care facility.
What do I do if someone gets methane on their skin?If exposed to the REFRIGERATED LIQUEFIED GAS / COMPRESSED GAS:
Quickly remove victim from source of contamination and briefly flush with lukewarm, gently flowing water. DO NOT attempt to rewarm the affected area on site. DO NOT rub area or apply dry heat. Gently remove clothing or jewelry that may restrict circulation. Carefully cut around clothing that sticks to the skin and remove the rest of the garment. Loosely cover the affected area with a sterile dressing. DO NOT allow the victim to drink alcohol or smoke. Obtain medical attention immediately.
If exposed to the GAS: Not applicable. No effects expected.
What do I do if someone gets methane in their eyes?If exposed to the REFRIGERATED LIQUEFIED GAS / COMPRESSED GAS:
Quickly remove victim from source of contamination. Immediately and briefly flush with lukewarm, gently flowing water. DO NOT attempt to rewarm. Cover both eyes with a sterile dressing. DO NOT allow victim to drink alcohol or smoke. Immediately obtain medical attention.
If exposed to the GAS: Not applicable. No effects expected.
What do I do if someone swallows methane?Ingestion is not an applicable route of exposure for gases.
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 serious exposures.
Some first aid procedures recommended above require advanced first aid training. Protocols for undertaking advanced procedures must be developed in consultation with a doctor and routinely reviewed.
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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