Carbon tetrachloride is a sweet smelling, manufactured compound. It can be a clear liquid but is most often found as a colorless gas that is not flammable. It was used in the production of refrigeration fluid and propellants for aerosol cans, as a pesticide, as a cleaning and degreasing agent, and in fire extinguishers. Due to its harmful health effects however, these uses are currently banned and carbon tetrachloride is now only used in some industrial situations.

How You Are Exposed

Carbon tetrachloride evaporates very easily so most of it in the environment is found in the air. It is possible to become exposed to it by breathing contaminated air near manufacturing plants or waste facilities. It is also possible for carbon tetrachloride to contaminate groundwater and thus expose people drinking from such a source, as well as those who have skin contact with the water while showering, swimming, or cooking. Any contact with contaminated soil can also result in harmful exposure. 

How Can Carbon Tetrachloride Affect Your Health?

Exposure to high levels of carbon tetrachloride (by either eating, drinking, breathing or even touching it) can result in liver, kidney, and central nervous system damage. The liver is especially sensitive to the chemical - it tends to swell upon exposure and the cells themselves are damaged and even destroyed. When the kidneys are damaged wastes may start to build up in the blood but if exposure is not continuous then it is possible for both the liver and the kidneys to repair themselves somewhat. When exposure is very high, the nervous system can be affected. Symptoms include a feeling of intoxication, headaches, dizziness, sleepiness, nausea and vomiting. If the exposure is significant enough coma and even death are possible.