Summary

The purpose of this book is to provide the user with a concise summary of the physical properties, detection methods, handling precautions and of the biochemical and physiological effects of gases and fumes found in the working environment so that they may be handled safely. The substances dealt with in this book vary considerably in their properties, whether it be chemical, physical or physiological, and as a consequence in the risks they pose to health and safety and the conditions demanded of staff and workplaces which handle them. It is therefore important not only to be able to identify both the gases and fumes themselves, but the dangers which they pose and the consequent measures necessary to deal with those dangers, whether it be as a precautionary measure or in response to an incident. For these reasons the availability of the data contained in this extremely useful book will be of vital importance to all staff on sites where such substances are used as well as too those who may need to react to an accident involving their use such as fire-fighters, doctors, nurses, paramedics and other emergency response staff.