Discharge from a CO2 extinguisher can injure which part of the body if it comes into contact with your skin?

Discharge from a CO2 extinguisher can injure which part of the body if it comes into contact with your skin?

• A. Eyes
• B. Ears
• C. Clothing
• D. Skin

Answer: (D)

CO2 extinguisher discharge is extremely cold because the stored liquid CO2 rapidly boils as it is released, creating a cryogenic spray. When this cold discharge contacts skin, it can freeze the skin tissue quickly, causing frostbite. Therefore, the part of the body most at risk from direct contact with the discharge is the skin. (Eyes can be irritated by exposure, but the question focuses on skin contact, where frostbite is the primary injury.)

CO2 extinguisher discharge is extremely cold because the stored liquid CO2 rapidly boils as it is released, creating a cryogenic spray. When this cold discharge contacts skin, it can freeze the skin tissue quickly, causing frostbite. Therefore, the part of the body most at risk from direct contact with the discharge is the skin. (Eyes can be irritated by exposure, but the question focuses on skin contact, where frostbite is the primary injury.)