Surrey police have advised that eight vials (total 147 gram) of a toxic chemical, potassium cyanoaurate (also known as gold potassium cyanide), went missing from a business in Woking after delivery to Blackburn was arranged on Thursday 2 November. It is not currently known if the package was stolen or is missing in transit.
The Health Protection Agency is issuing the following information to health professionals in England: potassium cyanoaurate is in the form of white crystals form and is similar to rock salt in appearance. It is used in the gold-plating process and can be lethal if ingested.
The quantity of material that is missing is insufficient to pose a significant risk to large numbers of people. However there would be considerable risk to those who attempt to process it or individuals who come into contact with the compound or its vapour in a confined space. Potassium cyanoaurate can be absorbed into the body and decomposes on contact with acids, producing hydrogen cyanide gas.
Hydrogen cyanide can have very rapid effects on the central nervous system within seconds or minutes. Recovery is possible if people are removed from the source but speed of response is critical. Exposure to low concentrations may be associated with laboured breathing, headache, dizziness, anxiety, increase in heart rate, nausea and drowsiness. A metallic taste has been reported. Exposure to high concentrations of hydrogen cyanide produces hyperventilation within a few seconds followed by loss of consciousness and convulsions. Death can occur within minutes from respiratory and/or cardiac arrest.
The containers are clearly labeled as a hazardous substance with a skull and cross bones image. The police have advised that anyone who comes across the packages should contact them by calling 08451 252222