What are the symptoms of biogas poisoning? A detailed explanation of first aid treatment methods
Biogas is a mixed gas produced by the fermentation of organic matter by microorganisms under anaerobic conditions, and biogas poisoning refers to acute systemic poisoning caused by inhaling the mixed gases remaining in a biogas digester during the process of cleaning it. Let's take a look at the symptoms of biogas poisoning and first aid treatment below!
How does biogas cause poisoning in people?
The main components of biogas are methane, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen, carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide. Methane is a colorless and odorless gas, the main component of natural gas and coal gas, and one of the harmful gases widely present in natural gas, coal gas, biogas, muddy ponds and enclosed cellar wells, ponds, coal mines (shafts) and coal storage facilities. If the concentration of methane in the air of the above environments is high, the oxygen content will drop, which will cause suffocation and, in severe cases, death. If the methane content in the air reaches 25-30%, it will cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, nausea, difficulty concentrating, uncoordinated movements, fatigue and weakness in the limbs. If the methane content in the air exceeds 45-50% or more, severe oxygen deficiency will cause difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, coma and even death from suffocation.
What symptoms does biogas poisoning have?
Mild cases of biogas poisoning present with headache and dizziness; moderate cases may show facial flushing, rapid heartbeat and heavy sweating; severe cases are more dangerous, with symptoms such as deep coma, elevated body temperature, rapid pulse, rapid breathing and incontinence of urine and feces. If such patients are not rescued in time, they may die from respiratory paralysis. Although some patients survive after rescue, they may still be left with sequelae such as forgetfulness and mental disorders.
First aid treatment for biogas poisoning
1. Quickly move the poisoned person away from the scene (rescuers must wear oxygen protective masks) and call "120" for help.
2. Administer oxygen; if conditions permit, send the patient to a hyperbaric oxygen chamber.
3. Perform artificial respiration; if necessary, perform endotracheal intubation and administer the stimulant lobeline.
4. Prevent and treat cerebral edema: intravenous injection of 250 milliliters of 20% mannitol and intravenous injection of 20 milligrams of furosemide.
5. Add 20-40 milligrams of dexamethasone to 500 milliliters of 10% glucose injection for intravenous drip, and administer ATP, coenzyme A, cytochrome C, etc.
How should biogas poisoning be prevented?
1. When cleaning a biogas digester, open the biogas outlet, feed inlet and gas valve two days in advance so that the biogas remaining in the digester can escape completely through air circulation.
2. Do not rush when working down in the digester, and do not stay too long. If you feel unwell, leave the digester immediately and get away from the biogas source.