The consequences of LPG explosion on lungs, heart and brain

The accident that occurred this morning in East Rome could also have consequences on the health of those who were not directly involved in the explosion itself. In addition to having caused injuries to the rescue teams already present on site and to about twenty people, including law enforcement, firefighters and civilians, there is a serious risk of collateral effects in the most vulnerable subjects, particularly at the respiratory level. Alessandro Miani , President of the Italian Society of Environmental Medicine (SIMA), explained this to Salute . “After an explosion in an urban area, such as the one that occurred today with the deflagration of an LPG tank, it is reasonable to expect the dispersion into the air of fumes and fine particulates (PM 2.5, PM 10, VOC) resulting from combustion,” says the expert.

“These substances, even at low concentrations, can irritate the airways, worsen pre-existing conditions such as asthma or bronchitis, and increase acute and chronic cardiovascular risk,” he adds.

Toxic fumes: environmental cleanup needed

“LPG, a mixture of propane and butane, if inhaled in high concentrations can cause nausea, headache, dizziness, neurological disorders, loss of consciousness or even asphyxiation due to oxygen displacement,” explains Miani. “While direct contact with the cryogenic liquid can cause cold burns and serious skin lesions; for this reason, in the event of accidents like the one that occurred today in Rome, it is essential - he continues - to immediately evacuate the affected area, ensure the intervention of specialized teams equipped with personal protective equipment and quickly start ventilation and remediation operations of the contaminated environments to reduce the risk of secondary exposure, even in the absence of visible flames. The gas is colorless and heavier than air and can accumulate in low areas, courtyards or basements, creating dangerous pockets even some time after the event.”

Those with respiratory diseases are more vulnerable

The most likely consequences are those that affect the most vulnerable people, especially those who already have previous respiratory problems. “The fumes of fine particulate matter and secondary substances produced by combustion,” says Miani, “can irritate the airways or worsen pre-existing conditions such as asthma or bronchitis, making it appropriate to monitor air quality and undergo a medical evaluation for anyone who presents even mild symptoms in the hours that follow, such as eye irritation, difficulty breathing, dry cough or abnormal tiredness.” He continues: “Anyone who lives or works in the affected area is advised to strictly follow the instructions of the health and civil protection authorities, avoiding re-entering prohibited areas, keeping windows closed and, in case of doubt, contacting their doctor or poison control center, while for everyone it is essential to rely exclusively on official channels to receive reliable and timely updates.”

Advice for the population: FFP2 masks outdoors

For the population living in the affected area, it is recommended to follow simple practical measures. “Keep windows closed in the first hours after the accident,” Miani begins to list. “Then: avoid access to restricted areas; use FFP2 masks – he continues – if you have to go out; ventilate the rooms only when the authorities confirm that the gas concentration has dropped to safe values; in the presence of symptoms such as eye irritation, persistent cough, headache, abnormal tiredness or difficulty breathing, promptly contact a doctor or poison control center”. Finally, according to the expert, it is useful for the authorities to monitor air quality and, if indicated, arrange environmental checks on soil and extinguishing water.