Irritants

Irritants are materials that irritate the skin and eyes, as well as the linings of the lungs, nose, and mouth. They may cause temporary redness at the affected site. Irritant or corrosive atmospheres can be divided into primary and secondary groups.

Primary irritants show no systemic toxic effects, meaning they do not affect the entire body. Examples of primary irritants include chloride, ozone, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, ammonia, and sulfur dioxide.

Secondary irritants may have systemic toxic effects in addition to surface irritation. Examples of secondary irritants include benzene, carbon tetrachloride, ethyl chloride, trichloroethane, trichloroethylene, and chloropropene.

Irritant gases are common in plastics plants, chemical plants, the petroleum industry, paint manufacturing, refrigeration industries, and mining operations. Prolonged exposure to irritants in confined spaces may result in changes in sensitivity.

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