Inappropriate Inhalation of Duster Cans

So what’s really inside?

Simply putting air in a can would not sustain or maintain the needed pressure to do the job that millions of people need for their cleaning tasks. Most dusters contain one of two chemicals: tetrafluoroethane (HFC-134a) or difluoroethane (HFC -152a).

What happens when chemicals are intentionally inhaled?

Inhalant abuse refers to the deliberate inhalation or sniffing of fumes, vapors or gases from common household products for the purpose of "getting high”. Unfortunately, dusters are just one example of products that are commonly misused. When used as intended, dusters are beneficial, however when abused they may prove harmful.

Different inhalants yield different effects, yet generally speaking, because inhaled chemicals are absorbed through the lungs into the bloodstream and distributed to the brain and other organs, the effects of inhaling can be severe. Within minutes, the user experiences feelings of intoxication and may become dizzy, have headaches, abdominal pain, limb spasms, lack of coordination, loss of control, hallucinations, and impaired judgment. Worse, he or she may even die from a condition known as Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome, which can even occur with first time users.

Long-term inhalant users generally suffer from muscle weakness, inattentiveness, lack of coordination, irritability, depression liver or kidney damage and central nervous system (including brain) damage. The dangers are real, the side effects are severe and the high is not worth risking your life.

Proper usage:

Below you will find a few tips to remember when using any compressed-gas duster:

Before Use

• Read the label carefully before using a duster.
• Point nozzle away from self and others.
• Hold can upright and pull trigger to clear valve of any liquid.
• Do not tilt excessively, shake, or turn can upside down before or during use.

To Use

• Hold can upright approximately 2 inches away from item to be cleaned.
• Pull trigger in a series of short blasts.
• Use in a well ventilated area.
• Do not leave in direct sunlight, enclosed vehicles, or expose to temperatures above 120 F.

For more information on usage of a duster, please consult the label on the back of the product.

Now that you know what can you do?

Now that you know dusters are not air in a can, spread the word! The next time someone makes a reference to “canned air” politely correct them by letting them know which chemicals can be found in the can. The next time you observe someone using a duster incorrectly share some usage tips with them, and remind them to always read the label.

As you amaze your peers with your new found knowledge of computer gas dusters, don’t forget to spread awareness of inhalant abuse prevention. If more dialogue is taking place around the serious issue more people will be aware of what it is and what to look for. Below is a HELPful way to remember the warning signs of inhalant abuse:

H  Hidden chemical-soaked rags or clothes

E  Eyes and nose red or runny

L  Loss of appetite or nausea

P  Paint or chemical stains on face or fingers

To learn more about inhalant abuse please visit www.Inhalant.org.