Is a red liquid thermometer toxic?
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
The liquid in a red-liquid thermometer is alcohol or kerosene. If the red-liquid thermometer remains intact, it is non-toxic and will not cause any physical discomfort upon human contact. However, if the red-liquid thermometer breaks and is not promptly cleaned up, especially in a poorly ventilated environment, it can become hazardous, potentially leading to oxygen deficiency or carbon monoxide accumulation.
A red liquid thermometer usually refers to a thermometer containing red-colored liquid. If the thermometer remains intact, it is non-toxic; however, if it breaks, it can be toxic. The detailed explanation is as follows:
1. Non-toxic
The liquid inside a red liquid thermometer is typically alcohol or kerosene, whereas only silver-white thermometers generally contain mercury. Red liquid thermometers are not suitable for measuring high temperatures because their high vapor pressure makes them prone to bursting. If the red liquid thermometer remains unbroken, it poses no toxicity and will not cause any adverse health effects upon human contact.
2. Toxic
If a red liquid thermometer breaks and is not promptly cleaned up, especially in a poorly ventilated environment, it can become hazardous. This may lead to oxygen deficiency or accumulation of carbon monoxide, potentially causing poisoning symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
After exposure to a broken red liquid thermometer, if symptoms of poisoning occur, the individual should immediately leave the contaminated area and breathe fresh air. In cases of severe symptoms, medical attention at a hospital is necessary.
