Kerosene. We see a lot of it here at Enviroleak. Sadly, we are often looking at it as it spreads across gardens and lawns prompting urgent remedial action. When our technical team are dealing with a leakage from a commercial or domestic oil tank, we are often asked about kerosene. What is it exactly? What are the effects of fumes and how dangerous is it to humans, animals and the environment.
Kerosene is a combustible hydrocarbon liquid which has been derived from petroleum. It is therefore a fossil fuel. Kerosene home heating oil remains the main source of heating fuel in all rural areas of Ireland and for almost 44% of Irish homes.
'All fossil fuels, including kerosene, release 'greenhouse gases' like carbon monoxide. This is directly attributed to global warming. However, if you still rely on fossil fuels for home heating, kerosene is one of the most environmentally-friendly options.'
Breathing in kerosene fumes may cause dizziness, nausea, headaches and drowsiness. Exposure to large amounts of kerosene fumes can result in coma, heart and lung problems and loss of muscle control. The World Health Organisation say that the effects of short term exposure are shot lived. People can be exposed to kerosene in the workplace by breathing it in, swallowing it, skin contact, and eye contact. The US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has set a recommended exposure limit of 100 mg/m3 over an 8-hour workday.
Never try to clean up a kerosene or home heating oil spill yourself. The internet is full of weird advice on what you should use to mop up kerosene, but trust us, a kerosene leak needs professional attention. Under normal conditions, kerosene does not evaporate and the smell stays for a long time after the clean-up itself. Kerosene is flammable and while it has a higher flash point than many flammable liquids, kerosene is highly combustible and can ignite if it's heated to 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. If you think there is a kerosene or home heating spill in your own or your neighbours property, seek experienced assistance.
Kerosene is not particularly poisonous. However, if a child or adult accidentally swallows kerosene, medical advice should be obtained immediately as there is a small risk of short-term lung damage if vomiting occurs.
Reference: irishexaminer.com/news
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