Methane (CH4) is the simplest hydrocarbon that is usually encountered as a gas. It is widespread and can pose a number of hazards.
Sources of methane:
(1) industrial production
(2) animal digestion
(3) fermentation
(4) associated with fossil fuels
(5) volcanoes
Hazards:
(1) fire or explosion
(2) asphyxia
(3) pneumonitis
Manner of exposures:
(1) accidental
(2) occupational
(3) intentional (homicide, suicide)
Common sites of exposure:
(1) coal mines
(2) industrial production or use
(3) sewers
(4) closed space with methane source
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
Specialty: Toxicology, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
