Burn Injury Attorneys

Chlorine Burns

Chlorine is one of the top 10 most commonly produced chemicals manufactured in the United States. It is produced commercially by electrolysis of sodium chlorine brine. Chlorine is used in industry and also in household cleaning products. While it is frequently safe, it can also be dangerous. This was evidenced by its status as the first poison gas to be used during World War I.

At room temperature, chlorine is a yellow-green gas. It is denser than air and so it will stay close to the surface of the Earth before eventually dispersing. Chlorine has a pungent, irritating odor similar to bleach that is detectable at even low concentrations.

Chlorine is not flammable. It is possible for it to react explosively or form explosive compounds with many common substances. These common substances include:

• Acetylene
• Ether
• Turpentine
• Ammonia
• Natural gas
• Hydrogen

Chlorine is slightly water soluble and reacts with moisture to form hypochlorous acid (HClO) and hydrochloric acid (HCl).

Given how common chlorine is and how much is produced in industrial and commercial locations, it is possible for widespread exposure to occur from accidental spills or releases of chlorine. Because it is a gas at room temperature, exposure typically occurs via inhalation. People can also be exposed to chlorine via skin or eye contact or even through ingestion of chlorine-contaminated food or water.

When a person is exposed, the health effects from the chlorine begin within seconds to minutes. The severity of the signs and symptoms from the chlorine will vary according to amount, route, and duration of exposure.

Contact a Burn Injury Lawyer

If you have been exposed to chlorine and experienced chemical burns, contact the burn victim injury lawyers of Williams Kherkher at 1-866-950-9000 to discuss your situation and to determine your legal options.