In some cases, washing with a solvent may facilitate absorption of a toxic chemical. Chemical contact with eyes can be particularly dangerous, resulting in painful injury or loss of sight. Wearing safety goggles or a face shield can reduce the risk of eye contact. Eyes that have been in contact with chemicals should be rinsed immediately with water continuously for at least 15 minutes. Contact lenses should be removed while rinsing do not delay rinsing to remove the lenses.
Medical attention is necessary if symptoms persist.
The respiratory tract is the most common route of entry for gases, vapors and particles. These materials may be transported into the lungs and exert localized effects, or be absorbed into the bloodstream. Factors that influence the absorption of these materials may include the vapor pressure of the material, solubility, particle size, its concentration in the inhaled air, and the chemical properties of the material. The vapor pressure is an indicator of how quickly a substance evaporates into the air and how high the concentration in air can become higher concentrations in air cause greater exposure in the lungs and greater absorption in the bloodstream. There is considerable individual variability in the perception of odor.