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Propylene

Quick Reference

What is Propylene?

A hydrocarbon that is used in the synthesis of plastics such as polypropylene and in the manufacture of solvents and other chemicals that are then used to synthesize cosmetics, adhesives and synthetic fibres. It is transported as a compressed, liquified gas. Is highly flammable and heavier than air. If transported in its pure state, UN: 1077. If transported as a mixture of gasses, UN: 1075.

Crew Safety

  1. Staging/Perimeter
    • Small leak: 100m. Stage uphill/upwind.
    • Large tank/rail car involved in a fire: 1600 m.
  2. Additional Resources
    • Consider if fire department needed for rescue (SCBA) or risk of fire. .
  3. PPE requirements
    • Rescue requires SCBA due to asphyxiation risk.
    • No special PPE requirements if patient has been moved to a well-ventilated area away from hazard.
  4. Safely initiating patient contact
    • Meet patient in an area that is well ventilated and away from risk of fire/explosion.

Effect on the Patient

Acts as a simple asphyxiant gas, displacing oxygen and causing hypoxia. Symptoms will depend on concentration and duration of exposure. They may range from dizziness, headache, nausea, diminished fine motor control, to an altered level of consciousness, unconsciousness, seizures, arrythmia and death. Sudden release of compressed gas poses risk of frostbite and localized soft-tissue injury.

Patient Decontamination

Oxygenation and ventilation are the primary means of decontamination. Support ABCs and administer high-flow O2. Heavy clothing and insulating layers may trap gasses and therefore should be removed from the patient and left in a well-ventilated area on scene.

Patient Treatment

Focus on oxygenation and ventilation. Treat symptoms as per BCEHS CPGs.

Safe Transfer of Care

No risk of secondary contamination or off-gassing.

Paramedic and Equipment Decontamination

No special precautions required. If heavy clothing or insulating layers were inadvertently transported with the patient, open door to the ambulance and allow to “air-out.”

Quick Access Resources

DPIC Monograph

No DPIC monograph available.

Paramedic Specialist Safety Data Sheet

No SDS available.

Emergency Response Guidebook

ERG (PDF)

Revision History

Version Date Changes Author
1.0 2026-05-01 Initial version Clinical Hub