Is breathing in oil vapour bad for you?!
Question:
Is breathing in oil vapour bad for you?
At work, the oil boiler close to our office leaked a lot of fuel over the weekend, and today throughout the entire day there was a very strong smell of oil in the office. We weren't sent home, just left to breathe in this oil vapour all day. We have no windows near us and the door (over the other side of the large office) kept being closed. I found it hard to concentrate then, and I've been a little short of breath since and have a sore throat. But is there anything I should worry about and should I ask to work from home tomorrow, until this is all cleared up? I don't want to risk having any health problems from this. Thanks
Answers:
There could be some serious side effects form inhaling too many vapors. If enough is inhaled to concentrate in the brain it can kill brain cells and just having it in your lungs can cause breathing problems like you are having and can even lead to pneumonia. Definitely stay home tomorrow, and if your breathing problems continue seek medical attention.