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Methane is not toxic below the lower explosive limit of 5% (50000 ppm). However, when methane is present at high concentrations, it acts as an asphyxiant. Asphyxiants displace oxygen in the air and can cause symptoms of oxygen deprivation (asphyxiation). The available oxygen should be a minimum of 18% or harmful effects will result. Methane displaces oxygen to 18% in air when present at 14% (140000 ppm). It is not expected to cause unconsciousness (narcosis) due to central nervous system depression until it reaches much higher concentrations (30% or 300000 ppm) - well above the lower explosive limit and asphyxiating concentrations. Effects of oxygen deficiency are: 12-16% - breathing and pulse rate are increased, with slight muscular incoordination; 10-14% - emotional upsets, abnormal fatigue from exertion, disturbed respiration; 6-10% - nausea and vomiting, inability to move freely, collapse, possible lack of consciousness; below 6% - convulsive movements, gasping, possible respiratory collapse and death. Since exercise increases the body's need for oxygen, symptoms will occur more quickly during exertion in an oxygen-deficient environment. Survivors of oxygen deprivation may show damage to some or all organs including the central nervous system and the brain. These effects may or may not be reversible with time, depending on the degree and duration of the low oxygen and the amount of tissue injury. Some closely related aliphatic hydrocarbons (propane, butane and isobutane) may be weak cardiac sensitizers in humans following inhalation exposures to high concentrations (greater than 5% for isobutane and greater than 10% for propane). Cardiac sensitizers may cause the sudden onset of an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and, in some cases, sudden death. Sudden deaths have been reported in cases of substance abuse involving butane and propane. Under stressful conditions and with exposure to high concentrations, the effects of cardiac sensitization may be important for some hydrocarbon gases. The asphyxiant effects of methane may enhance cardiac sensitization. SOURCE: http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/chemicals/chem_profiles/methane/health_met.html

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