The National Poisons Information Centre in Beaumont Hospital has recorded a dozen cases of toxic exposure to the disinfectants used to prevent the spread of foot-and-mouth disease.
The cases involved skin burns, breathing difficulties and the side-effects of accidental ingestion.
There are a variety of chemicals in use for disinfectant purposes; all are supplied in concentrated form. They are either strong acids or strong alkalis requiring up to 1,000-fold dilution.
According to Dr Joseph Tracey, director of the poisons centre, such concentrated substances can be particularly hazardous during dilution. "Once diluted, the disinfectant is safe but it is the dilution process that is the problem. People working in shops, businesses and at home are not used to handling concentrated chemicals," he said.
Eight incidents have involved skin splashes including one which caused severe burns requiring hospital treatment.
One accident occurred while the dilution was being carried out in an enclosed area, resulting in breathing difficulties for the individual. There were two cases of accidental ingestion; one person required intensive care as a result. There have been no fatalities to date.
"Above all else, do not decant these acids into beverage bottles. If you do, you are inviting a child to drink the chemical with potentially fatal results," Dr Tracey told The Irish Times.
He strongly advised consumers to keep the concentrated chemical in a locked container out of the reach of children. The diluting process should only take place in a well ventilated area.
When diluting, wear appropriate personal protective equipment such as goggles, mask, boots and gloves.
The National Poisons Information Centre advises the following measures in cases of toxic exposure to concentrated disinfection.
Skin Contamination: remove contaminated clothing and wash with copious amounts of soap and water. If burning has occurred, seek medical advice.
Eye Splash: flush eyes with water or saline. Undergo medical examination for corneal damage.
Breathing of Fumes: Remove person to fresh air. Administer oxygen. Hospital treatment, including ventilation may be required in severe cases.
Accidental Ingestion: Seek immediate medical attention. Rinse out mouth with large amounts of water.
There have been no reports of human infection with the foot-and-mouth virus. Its occurrence in man is extremely rare. When it does occur symptoms are usually mild and self-limiting.