Sodium Azide
Quick Reference
What is Sodium Azide?
Used as a reagent in labs, in explosives manufacturing and older airbags. Reacts violently on contact with metals. When dissolved in water or acidic solutions it forms its conjugate base, Hydrazoic Acid, and off-gasses. Transported as crystals in plastic or glass containers. Quantities usually less than 2.5 Kg, but occasionally 12Kg or 50 Kg. High lethality when ingested, increasingly used in suicide and homicide.
Crew Safety
- Staging/Perimeter
- Spills/leaks: 50 m
- Large transport container involved in a fire: 800 m
- Additional Resources
- Fire department or other emergency team equipped with SCBAs.
- PPE requirements
- In ambient air contact/splash precautions are sufficient: gloves, gown, face shield, and N95 for airborne particulates. Primary risk is emesis off gassing hydrazoic acid in poorly ventilated areas.
- If patient is vomiting indoors SCBA is needed due to off-gassing of hydrazoic acid.
- Safely initiating patient contact
- • Meet the patient outdoors in a well-ventilated area and assess if safe for transport.
Effect on the Patient
Sodium Azide inhibits cytochrome oxidase in the electron transport chain causing cellular hypoxia. This leads to CNS and CVS dysfunction (unconsciousness, seizures) and dysrhythmias. Vomiting may occur, and emesis will release gaseous hydrazoic acid risking secondary exposure. Inhalation irritates mucous membranes and can cause systemic toxicity. If patient not vomiting secondary exposure risk is minimal.
Patient Decontamination
- Have the patient moved to a well-ventilated area (ambient air).
- If crystals are on the patient remove contaminated clothing and flush affected areas with water.
- If the patient is vomiting, remove contaminated clothing and flush affected area with water.
- If patient is vomiting SCBAs required for transport, ambulance ventilation is insufficient.
- If vomit has contaminated the patient or equipment, gross decon should occur prior to transport.
Patient Treatment
- Administer high-flow O2. Treat as per CPGs. Anticipate need for airway management. If intubation is required, it should be performed in ambient air. DO NOT intubate in the ambulance.
- Definitive treatment involves administering hydroxocobalamin: transport quickly if safe to do so.
Safe Transfer of Care
Hospital to be notified of incoming patient, risk of secondary exposure from emesis, and PPE requirements.
Paramedic and Equipment Decontamination
After transport all ambulance doors should be opened allowing for 20 minutes of airflow. Any contaminated/soiled items should be disposed of in plastic bags.
Quick Access Resources
DPIC Monograph
No DPIC monograph available.
Paramedic Specialist Safety Data Sheet
No SDS available.
Emergency Response Guidebook
US CDC Guide for Sodium Azide
Revision History
| Version | Date | Changes | Author |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 2026-05-01 | Initial version | Clinical Hub |