Acute chlorine gas exposure

The heavy use of chlorine gas in industry and water purification poses the constant threat of mass gas exposure. In a recent experience with a chlorine gas disaster involving over 100 patients, 64, including six subsequently requiring admission, were treated in the main emergency unit facility. The remainder were triaged to a safe area away from the emergency unit with instructions for symptomatic treatment. Injuries were limited to four organ systems: pulmonary, gastrointestinal, ophthalmic, and cutaneous. Current treatment methods are compared with those in the literature and a protocol for management provided.