Suspected Phosphine Exposure: What to Do First

Phosphine is released by aluminium phosphide fumigants and, when swallowed, by zinc phosphide rodenticides. Exposure is a medical emergency. This guide covers the first steps while professional help is on the way; it is not a substitute for medical care.

Warning signs

• Headache, dizziness or unusual tiredness
• Nausea, vomiting or stomach pain
• Coughing, chest tightness or difficulty breathing
• In serious cases, collapse or loss of consciousness

If the gas was breathed in

1. Do not enter a fumigated or gas-filled area to help unless you are wearing the respirator specified on the label; otherwise you may become a second casualty.
2. Move the person to fresh air and away from the source.
3. Keep them at rest, calm and warm.
4. Call 112 or 108 straight away and say that phosphine or aluminium phosphide is involved.

If it was swallowed

1. Call 112 or 108 immediately and get the person to hospital without delay.
2. Do not give anything by mouth to someone who is drowsy or unconscious.
3. Follow only the first-aid instructions printed on the product label and leaflet.

Skin or eye contact

• Remove contaminated clothing and wash the skin with soap and plenty of water.
• Rinse the eyes with clean running water for at least 15 minutes, keeping the eyelids open.

Take the label to hospital

Take the product container, label or leaflet with you, or a clear photo of it. It tells doctors exactly which chemical is involved and saves valuable time.

Prevention is the real protection

Most accidents happen when fumigants are stored at home, opened in damp conditions, or when people re-enter fumigated areas too early. See our guide on safe handling and storage for the precautions that prevent exposure.

This guide is general information, not a substitute for the product label. Always read and follow the label and leaflet approved by the CIB&RC for the exact product you are using, and local regulations. In an emergency in India, call 112 or 108.