Here's why:
* Respiratory irritant: Ammonia gas is a strong irritant to the respiratory system. Inhaling even small amounts can cause coughing, wheezing, and burning in the nose, throat, and lungs.
* Eye irritant: Ammonia gas is also a strong irritant to the eyes, causing redness, pain, and even blindness.
* Skin irritant: Contact with ammonia gas can cause skin irritation and burns.
* High concentrations can be fatal: Exposure to high concentrations of ammonia gas can be fatal, causing respiratory failure and death.
Symptoms of ammonia gas exposure can include:
* Coughing
* Wheezing
* Burning sensation in the eyes, nose, and throat
* Difficulty breathing
* Nausea and vomiting
* Dizziness
* Headache
* Loss of consciousness
If you suspect you or someone else has been exposed to ammonia gas, take the following steps:
* Get to fresh air immediately.
* Call emergency services.
* Remove any contaminated clothing.
* Flush eyes and skin with water for at least 15 minutes.
Prevention is key:
* Store ammonia-based products in well-ventilated areas.
* Never mix ammonia with bleach or other cleaning products.
* Use gloves and masks when handling ammonia-based products.
* Always follow product instructions carefully.
If you are concerned about the safety of ammonia gas in your home or workplace, contact a qualified professional for advice.