Definition & Operational Usage of Zinc Phosphide
What Is Zinc Phosphide?
Zinc phosphide (UN 1714) is a dark gray crystalline inorganic rodenticide that reacts violently with water or stomach acid to release highly toxic, flammable Phosphine gas ($PH_3$, IDLH 50 ppm, fishy/garlic odor).
Why Zinc Phosphide Matters on the Fireground
Ingesting or wetting zinc phosphide generates lethal phosphine gas, which causes severe pulmonary edema, cardiac arrest, and hepatic failure. Emergency personnel treating poisoned patients risk fatal secondary phosphine gas exposure.
Relevant NFPA Standards
- NFPA 470: Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Standard for Responders
- OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER)
Field Procedures & Tactical Steps
- Consult ERG Guide 139 (Substances - Water-Reactive / Toxic).
- Approach scene upwind with Level A or Level B PPE and positive-pressure SCBA.
- Establish hot zone and strictly prohibit water application for fire suppression or decon.
- Cover dry powder spill with plastic sheeting or dry sand to prevent moisture contact.
- Decontaminate exposed patients using dry decon (brushing off powder) before any water rinse.
Common Context & Application
Encountered in agricultural chemical spills, pest control warehouse fires, and suicide by rodenticide ingestion calls.
Frequently Asked Questions about Zinc Phosphide
Why is water forbidden when responding to a Zinc Phosphide spill?
What odor is associated with phosphine gas release?
Other Names for Zinc Phosphide
Zinc Phosphide may also appear in training materials, NFPA standards, or department SOPs as: Zinc Phosphide Rodenticide, Zinc Phosphide Pesticide.
Relevant Tools
Operational calculators related to Zinc Phosphide: