Run Safety

As proof that there’s an organization for just about everyone, the defensive aerosol spray filler, supplier and distributor contingent formed the Association of Defensive Spray Manufacturers. While we probably won’t be going to a ADSM conventions any time in the near future (you don’t have to worry about a riot breaking at one of their meetings), we did find their website to have some interesting information about the history of defensive sprays such as:

• The use of chemical weapons dates back thousands of years. In 428 BC Spartans burned wood saturated with pitch and sulfur to create toxic fumes. Also around that time the Chinese filled bags with pepper and spices to fling at their enemies. (Ed. note: If you got hit in the face with one of those Chinese spice bags, would you be hungry for another one about an hour later?)
• Law enforcement agencies began using tear gas after World War II, especially as a riot control agent, and it is still in use today.
• Oleoresin capsicum spray was developed at the University of Georgia by Professor James H. Jenkins and veterinarian Frank Hayes in 1960. That formula under the brand name Halt Animal Repellant was first sold in 1963.

Filed under: Uncategorized by RunSafety Pepper Spray Administrator Monday, November 22nd, 2010
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If you’re worried about using pepper spray because of possible long-term damage to your eyes, don’t be.

Researchers in Finland conducted a study of 10 police officers who were exposed to pepper spray. They measured the participants’ corneal sensitivity and tear fluid nerve growth prior to exposure to provide a baseline, then 30 minutes, one day, one week and one month after exposure.

Though some participants experienced some focal epithelial cell damage to the cornea, it healed within one day. Others showed signs of mechanical and chemical sensitivity for up to a week after exposure.

Researchers concluded that pepper spray did cause immediate changes in mechanical and chemical sensitivity that may continue for a week, but a single exposure to pepper spray did not have a long-term effect on corneal tissues.

Filed under: Uncategorized by RunSafety Pepper Spray Administrator Monday, November 22nd, 2010
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Yes. And no.

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website, “self-defense spray” is permitted in checked baggage if it:

• is four ounces (118 ml for our European friends) or less,
• has a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge and
• contains 2% or less of tear gas (CS or CN) by mass

And technically, you’re supposed to declare your hazardous materials (as per Federal Hazardous Materials Regulations, 49 CFR, 171-180) to the airline or you could be subject to a civil penalty of up to $50,000.

Filed under: Uncategorized by RunSafety Pepper Spray Administrator Monday, November 22nd, 2010
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