Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3)
Quick Reference
What is Calcium Carbonate?
Widely used as a filler in plastics and paper manufacturing as well as pharmaceutical products and an additive in concrete. Added to food products and taken as a nutritional supplement and to treat acid reflux. Transported in bulk in rail cars, dump trucks and barges. May be moved in 50 Kg sacs. Some industrial applications require CaCO3 as a slurry mixed in water, and in this case, it may be transported in a large tank. Despite it’s widespread use, no ERG guide exists for this substance. If heated above 825℃ toxic vapors are produced.
Crew Safety
- Staging/Perimeter
- No staging required
- Additional Resources
- No specialty resources required
- PPE requirements
- If there is significant airborne particulate matter present an N95 should be worn
- Safely initiating patient contact
- No special concerns.
Effect on the Patient
Primary risk to patients is mechanical irritation of skin and eyes. Inhalation of dust or particulates can irritate upper and lower airways. Generally not considered to have acute systemic toxic effects.
Patient Decontamination
If skin is irritated irrigate with water. If eyes are irritated flush with N/S or water.
Patient Treatment
If respiratory irritation causes dyspnea treat as per BCEHS CPGs. Persons with pre-existing asthma or COPD may be more prone to bronchospasm. Dermal and ocular irritation treated with flushing.
Safe Transfer of Care
No concern for secondary contamination.
Paramedic and Equipment Decontamination
No specific concerns. If there is significant airborne particulate in the ambulance open doors and ventilate before cleaning exposed surfaces.
Quick Access Resources
DPIC Monograph
No DPIC monograph available.
Paramedic Specialist Safety Data Sheet
No SDS available.
Emergency Response Guidebook
No ERG available.
WHO INCHEM Guide to Calcium Carbonate
Revision History
| Version | Date | Changes | Author |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 2026-05-01 | Initial version | Clinical Hub |