What do asphyxiants do to the human body?

Asphyxiants are substances that impair the body's ability to utilize oxygen effectively, disrupting normal respiration. This can occur through various mechanisms, such as displacing oxygen in the environment, binding to hemoglobin in the blood, or interfering with cellular respiration processes. When someone is exposed to an asphyxiant, it can lead to a lack of oxygen in the tissues, causing symptoms such as dizziness, unconsciousness, or even death.

The identification of asphyxiants affecting the body's capacity to use oxygen underscores their hazardous nature in environments where they may be present. Understanding this action is crucial for safety procedures and emergency responses in hazardous material situations.