According to IMCA, glow sticks when not properly stored and exposed to high temperatures may break open. The chemical substance which makes them glow could be released from the stick and lead to chemical accidents. In combination with manufacture issues, the risk of such an accident could escalate even more.
The incident
Through an IMCA inspection, the casing of a glow stick snapped releasing the glow dye. A member of IMCA noted that numerous sticks from the same batch broke open, releasing the chemical dye contents.
Probable cause
- Storage. The plastic from which these are made is known to be brittle if exposed to extreme temperatures. This may be a probable cause considering warehousing locations of the item.
- Issues with manufacture. The manufacturer hypothesis was that during the injection when they make the tubes, a small piece of dust may have prevented the tube from forming properly which can cause this type of phenomenon.
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Lessons Learned
- Long-term storage should take place in appropriate air-conditioned environment.
- Such light sticks should be opened in a safe distance from the eyes and always with protective gloves.
- Expiry date and/or authenticity of existing stock of such materials should be always examined.
