A person exposed to dangerous substances by inhalation is transferred to a location with fresh air and, if necessary, given CPR, which is most effective when preformed with bellows. Oxygen flow from a pressure cylinder can be connected to the bellows. Oxygen provision is particularly important in the event of carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulphide and cyanide poisoning.

Acids, bases and other toxic chemicals cause damage to the eye. Bases and very strong acids in particular penetrate quickly into the tissues, causing eye damage in a few dozen seconds. Irrigation of the eye with an abundance of water must be initiated immediately.

If a base or protein-denaturising substances such as lye and formalin have entered the eye, the eye must be irrigated with water for at least 15–20 minutes, and if necessary for the entire journey to further treatment.

If acid has splashed in the eye, the eye should be irrigated for 5–15 minutes.

When eyes are exposed to splashes of other irritants, such as organic solvents, the eye must be thoroughly rinsed with plenty of water.

The exposed skin area is rinsed as quickly as possible with plenty of water. In serious accidents involving corrosive substances, rinsing (emergency shower) should be started with clothing on.

However, it should be noted that certain corrosive substances, such as chlorosulfonic acid, form toxic gases when reacting with water. Special guidance should be considered in specific cases such as this.

After the emergency shower, dirty clothing is removed and isolated if necessary. Skin is washed with soap and water, and then dried. Finally, the injuries are covered with sterile dressing. Special substances are recommended for the cleansing of skin and neutralising the effects in accidents involving some substances, such as phenol and hydrofluoric acid. Adsorbing powders, e.g. kaolin, may also be used to remove substances that are only slightly water-soluble, such as fatty soluble pesticides from the skin.

In accidents involving the swallowing of dangerous substances, the chemical and physical properties of the substance, the toxicity, the time taken to swallow the substance, and the clinical status of the patient affect the type of first aid measures to be taken.

The absorption of organic substances in the gastrointestinal tract can usually be restricted by encouraging the patient to drink activated charcoal mixed in water. Immediately inducing vomiting could be necessary if the substance is very toxic and when swallowed is likely life/threatening.

Vomiting should not be induced when corrosive substances are swallowed; instead the substance should be diluted by encouraging the patient to drink water and rinsing their mouth. If the patient has swallowed an organic solvent, vomiting should not be induced, as this may allow the substance easy access to the lungs, where it could cause serious inflammation.

If the patient's level of consciousness is not normal or the patient is convulsing, they should not be given anything to swallow.