Description
Description
The Phosgene Colorimetric SafeAir Badge is a monitoring system designed to indicate the presence of phosgene at concentrations below the permissible exposure limit. The SafeAir phosgene badge detects the presence of phosgene by forming a color change in the shape of an exclamation mark inside the triangle. This indication is produced by a color-forming reaction, which occurs when phosgene reacts with a flat indicator layer.
Phosgene is a colorless, highly toxic gas with an odor resembling moldy hay. It is an insidious poison. There is no immediate irritation even when fatal concentrations are inhaled. It may cause severe pulmonary edema (abnormal fluid buildup in the lungs) or pneumonia. Inhalation of high concentrations causes choking, coughing and painful breathing. OSHA PEL (permissible exposure limit) for phosgene is 0.1 ppm (averaged over an 8-hour work shift). NIOSH IDLH (immediately dangerous to life or health) exposure limit for phosgene is 2 ppm. Phosgene is used in the manufacturing of numerous organic chemicals. It is also used in the production of glass, resins, dyes and plastics.
