Mass casualty from chemical fumes among filmmakers

• Main Authors: Prasanna Venkatesh Ramesh, Kirti Nath Jha, Anugraha Balamurugan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications 2018-01-01
• Series: TNOA Journal of Ophthalmic Science and Research
• Subjects: chemical conjunctivitis; film shooting; japan black; kerosene
• Online Access: http://www.tnoajosr.com/article.asp?issn=2589-4528;year=2018;volume=56;issue=3;spage=180;epage=182;aulast=Ramesh

Chemical fumes are known to cause eye injury resulting in disablement. A mass casualty (group of 17 filmmakers) reported with severe irritation, watering, redness, photophobia, and blepharospasm in their eyes following approximately 12 hours after exposure to fumes of Japan black mixed with kerosene after film shooting with intense arc light. Examination revealed chemical conjunctivitis, keratoconjunctivitis, dermatitis, and eyelid edema. Symptoms resolved within 48 hours in all except 1, with supportive treatment, lubricant eye drops, and rest in the darkened room. This case report underlines the need for healthy industrial practices to avoid chemical injuries from volatile chemicals among filmmakers.