Accidental tear gas injuries in security agents.

BACKGROUND

Tear gas is a noxious vapour used in quelling civil disturbances. The law enforcement agents who usually handle this are well trained and rarely injured by the use of this weapon especially during peace times.

METHODS

We report injuries sustained by two policemen handling tear gas as a result of accidents. Case notes of the patients were the source of information.

RESULTS

Two policemen were injured while handling tear gas. The equipment accidentally dropped and exploded on attempting to pick them. The mechanisms of injuries and parts of the body injured were similar ie the hands and face with traumatic cataract of an eye in one patient.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that proper training of the law enforcement agents will go a long way in reducing these types of morbidity from tear gas use.