What Exactly is Rust?

In essence, rust refers to the transformation of iron into iron oxide. This process occurs when iron is exposed to oxygen, typically from the atmosphere. The iron atoms bond with oxygen, resulting in iron oxide, the brown, flaky substance we call rust.

Rust formation accelerates in the presence of water, especially saltwater. Water seeps into microscopic crevices in metal, where hydrogen can combine with other molecules to form acids that further corrode the metal, while oxygen bonds with iron to produce more rust. This is why rust is a significant issue on ships, where metal is constantly exposed to ocean saltwater.

Preventing rust generally involves shielding the iron from air and water using coatings, paints, lacquers, or even magnetite—a more stable form of iron oxide. Unfortunately, once rust has formed, it cannot be reversed. You can clean off the rust and apply a protective layer to prevent further corrosion, but you cannot revert rust back to pure iron.

This often leads individuals to venture into rusty areas to scrub away the corrosion and protect the underlying metal, which is where the danger escalates.

The Suffocation Risk in Rusty Environments

Recall the rust formation equation:

iron metal + oxygen = rust

It’s important to note that oxygen is a component of this equation. As rust develops, it depletes oxygen from the air. In confined spaces, this can result in dangerously low oxygen levels.

In enclosed, rust-laden environments, individuals can suffer from oxygen deprivation. A tragic incident occurred in a ship's anchor locker, where three sailors lost their lives after entering such a confined space. In a recent viral TikTok video, a worker described how management encouraged employees to disregard safety protocols and enter these hazardous areas.

OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, has established guidelines to protect workers from these perilous environments. Yet, employees are still often urged to enter enclosed spaces, like storage tanks, without being fully informed of the risks.

It’s vital to remember that the body doesn’t sense low oxygen levels; it only detects carbon dioxide levels. Therefore, people may unknowingly enter these spaces and lose consciousness without realizing there’s a problem. The experience isn’t dramatic; it’s a quiet slip into unconsciousness.

Before entering any confined area, ensure you are equipped with the necessary safety gear, including a source of supplemental oxygen. If someone else has lost consciousness after entering such a space, do not follow them in! Even if you try to hold your breath, you won't realize the oxygen depletion until it's too late. Always call for help if you're not equipped for safe entry.

Tetanus and Its Connection to Rust

Many of us recall receiving a tetanus shot after stepping on a rusty nail. Tetanus is often associated with rust due to its portrayal in media, but the reality is that tetanus isn’t directly linked to rust itself.

The bacterium responsible for tetanus, Clostridium tetani, thrives in soil, especially in moist environments rich in organic matter. And guess what? Metal in such damp, organic-rich soil tends to rust. Thus, when you encounter a rusty nail or cut yourself on rusty metal, it typically means you're in an environment conducive to the growth of tetanus-causing bacteria.

If you get injured by a rusty object, it’s critical to ensure your tetanus vaccinations are current. Tetanus can be fatal in about 10% of cases, so safeguarding your health is crucial. However, even if the object is clean and free of rust, it may still pose a risk if it originated from soil, so it’s better to err on the side of caution and get the shot.

In Conclusion: How Concerned Should You Be About Rust?

In general, you likely don’t need to worry about rust daily. It’s a natural process of iron deterioration rather than a living threat. However, be mindful that rust consumes oxygen, which can be lethal in enclosed spaces. Even if there’s some ventilation, check oxygen levels or wear safety gear before entering rust-affected areas.

If someone has entered a confined space and is unresponsive, do not attempt to rescue them without proper equipment. Seek help or ensure you have adequate safety measures, including supplemental oxygen.

Stay safe, and may your iron objects remain rust-free!