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The General Accident Insurance Institution (AUVA) warns of possible explosion hazards when using hand disinfectants. Sprays, gels and liquids that are supposed to kill the corona viruses have become an integral part of everyday life. “However, it is often forgotten that considerable dangers can emanate from these agents”, said AUVA expert Klaus Kopia.
“All hand disinfectants have a low flash point,” Kopia said. Depending on the content of alcohol or ethanol, this lies at a temperature between 17 and 21 degrees Celsius. This means that even at room temperatures of around 23 degrees Celsius above the surface of the liquid, an inflammable vapour-air mixture is always formed. “On contact with an effective ignition source – such as a candle or a cigarette – a flame occurs immediately.
Electrical appliances as ignition source
Electrical appliances or electrostatic charges could also be used as ignition sources, the expert emphasized. Reports of severe deflagrations that result in severe burns are rare, though. “In most cases, however, small burns are likely to occur, which injure the skin superficially and do not cause reportable occupational accidents. However, just a few splashes of disinfectant are sufficient to produce a few liters of gas-air mixture.
The risk increases, however, if the internal pressure in closed bottles, flasks, cans or other containers increases at high ambient temperatures. This risk is naturally lower in autumn than in summer. “However, if the closure does not withstand the excess pressure, this can lead to a leak. Escaping flammable vapour could then form a larger explosive quantity with the ambient air.
Soap and hot water “almost always the better choice
Kopia advises to wash your hands with soap and warm water. “This is almost always the better choice.” If you use disinfectants, make sure that they have evaporated thoroughly and that your hands are dry (at least 30 seconds) before you touch anything. If you rub your hands, you should definitely stay away from ignition sources and never use this time for smoking.
Caution is also advised in the car. “Ignition sources such as electrical appliances, lighters or cigarette lighters are easily underestimated or overlooked,” says the expert. He recommends that it is better to disinfect hands before getting into the car – just as disinfectants should only be used in open and well-ventilated areas. In addition, containers should always be tightly sealed and not exposed to direct sunlight.
One thing, however, should not be disregarded with all due caution. “It is obvious that the disinfection effect compared to Covid-19 far outweighs the risk of inflammation during application,” Kopia sums up.
— Hector Pascua with reports from diepresse.at. Picture: stockilyapp.com
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