10-Feb-2023: 7 workers die in Andhra Pradesh due to asphyxiation

7 workers died due to asphyxiation during the removal of oil sludge in an edible oil tank in Andhra Pradesh.

What is Asphyxiation?

Asphyxiation is a medical condition that occurs when a person is deprived of oxygen. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including choking, suffocation, drowning, or exposure to toxic gases. It is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Asphyxiation is mainly the interruption of the body's oxygen supply. Oxygen is essential for the proper functioning of our organs and tissues. When we breathe in, oxygen enters our lungs and is transported to our cells through the bloodstream. If this oxygen supply is cut off or reduced, our cells begin to die, and our organs can fail. Asphyxiation can quickly lead to brain damage, coma, and death.

Choking is one of the most common causes of asphyxiation. It happens when an object gets lodged in the airway, blocking the passage of air. This can be a piece of food, a toy, or any other foreign object. Suffocation occurs when the air supply is cut off, such as when a plastic bag is placed over the head or when a person is trapped in a small space. Drowning is another form of asphyxiation that happens when a person's airway is filled with water, preventing them from breathing. Exposure to toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulfide, can also cause asphyxiation by displacing oxygen in the bloodstream.

How to avoid Asphyxiation?

Asphyxiation can be prevented by taking certain precautions. For example, parents should be vigilant about keeping small objects away from young children and ensuring that toys and other items do not pose a choking hazard. People working in confined spaces or with toxic chemicals should use appropriate safety gear and take regular breaks to ensure that they are getting enough oxygen.

If you suspect someone is experiencing asphyxiation, call for emergency medical assistance immediately. While waiting for help to arrive, try to remove any objects that may be blocking their airway or move them to an area with fresh air. Do not attempt to perform CPR unless you have been trained to do so.