High viscosity hydrocarbons such as diesel fuel and motor oil cause relatively little harm if ingested.
Low viscosity hydrocarbons are volatile, spreading rapidly due to low surface tension They are extremely dangerous if inhaled or aspirated and include petrol, kerosine, lighter fuel, turpentine, mineral seal oil, pine oil, mineral spirits, glues and solvents. Effects include: - intoxication from solvent abuse/glue sniffing - chemical pneumonitis - ventricular fibrillation.
Halogenated hydrocarbons such as chlorinated insecticides, dry cleaning fluids, methylene chloride, organophosphates and pyrethrins cause neurological effects including hyperexcitability, delerium, convulsions and coma.
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