10.36 Environmental Hazards

Toxic Hazards in Aviation

Virtually all aircraft are directly associated with substances that can be toxic to the human body.

Obvious examples include:

• petrol;
• lubricating oils;
• hydraulic fluids; and
• exhaust gases.

If absorbed into the body, these substances can cause harm.

The most common routes of exposure are through:

• the lungs;
• the skin;
• the eyes; and
• occasionally the digestive tract.

10.36.2 Describe the symptoms, effects and immediate treatments for the following hazards present in the aviation environment: 

(a) carbon monoxide 

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless and tasteless, but highly toxic gas found in engine exhaust gases.

It is a potential hazard in piston-engine aircraft, particularly where cabin heating systems use heat from the exhaust system.

Cracks or leaks in the exhaust or cabin heating system can allow carbon monoxide to enter the cockpit or cabin.

Carbon monoxide binds to haemoglobin in the blood and reduces its ability to carry oxygen to body tissues.

It can therefore cause hypoxia even at sea level.

The effects of carbon monoxide poisoning depend on: