Sodium Chlorate (NaClO3)
Quick Reference
What is NaClO3?
Powerful oxidizing agent primarily used in BC as a reagent in the production of ClO2 used as a bleaching agent in the pulp and paper industry but also used as a reagent in the synthesis of other chemicals. Formerly used as an herbicide, however this is uncommon. Found in both crystalline form and as an aqueous solution. May cause combustibles, such as clothing, to combust once dry.
Crew Safety
- Staging/Perimeter
- Small spills: 50 m
- Large spills: 100 m
- Large tank involved in a fire: 800 m
- Additional Resources
- • If rescue required: HAZMAT or industrial response team.
- PPE requirements
- SCBA and Chemical Protective Clothing
- After decontamination crew should maintain contact and splash precautions
- Safely initiating patient contact
- Patient should be decontaminated prior to contact with crew.
- Crew may coach initial decontamination while avoiding direct contact with the patient.
Effect on the Patient
Powerful oxidizing agent that will cause significant tissue damage to any tissue it contacts. Minimal vapor risk. If ingested causes profound methemoglobinemia.
Patient Decontamination
* Remove clothing, avoid pulling over head. Keep contaminated clothes wet and DO NOT transport with the patient.
* Minimum of 30 minutes of flushing exposed eyes or skin with water. EYES TAKE PRECEDENT.
Patient Treatment
* Following decontamination treat as per BCEHS CPGs
* Symptoms of toxicity can be delayed. Patient should be transported for observation even if stable.
Safe Transfer of Care
Provided decontamination has occurred and the patients clothing was not transported with them to the hospital, little risk of secondary contamination. Contact and splash precautions until certain adequate decontamination has occurred.
Paramedic and Equipment Decontamination
If no direct contact with Sodium Chlorate, then no special decontamination required. If equipment has been exposed to aqueous Sodium Chlorate risk of fire exists as it dries or if exposed to warmth/heat. Contaminated equipment or uniform items should be kept away from personnel and kept wet with water.
Quick Access Resources
DPIC Monograph
No DPIC monograph available.
Paramedic Specialist Safety Data Sheet
Emergency Response Guidebook
Revision History
| Version | Date | Changes | Author |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 2026-05-01 | Initial version | Clinical Hub |