ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences

 


 

AMMONIUM ACETATE (CH3C00NH4)

SYNONYMS
Ammonium ethanoate
CHARACTERISTICS
Colourless, moist crystals with a slight vinegar odour.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Ammonium acetate is incompatible with sodium hypochlorite. This is not a combustible substance but it will enhance the combustion of other substances.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
There is very little information available about the effects of this compound. It is expected to be an eye and respiratory tract irritant and has a diuretic effect when ingested. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, thirst and mental confusion.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid eye contact.
Avoid inhalation.
Avoid ingestion.
Keep away from oxidising materials.
Keep the container tightly sealed.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing to avoid eye contact, inhalation or ingestion. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin ­ immediately wash the affected area with soap or mild detergent and large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed approximately 15 minutes).
Eyes ­ immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes).
If irritation persists seek medical attention.
Inhalation ­ remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. Keep warm and allow to rest. If irritation persists seek medical attention.
Ingestion ­ wash the mouth thoroughly with water and give two to four glasses of milk or water to drink. Induce vomiting by touching a finger to the back of the throat. Seek immediate medical advice. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
STORAGE
Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat or incompatible substances.
DISPOSAL
Wear rubber gloves, safety glasses and laboratory coat.
SPILLS: Solid - collect in a beaker, dissolve in a large amount of water. Add soda ash, mix and neutralise with 6M hydrochloric acid and discharge to sewer with large excess of water.
Solution - cover with soda ash, mix and scoop into a beaker of water. Neutralise with 6M hydrochloric acid and discharge to sewer with a large excess of water.
PACKAGE LOTS: Add slowly to a large container of water. Stir in a slight excess of soda ash. Let stand for 24 hours. Decant or siphon into another container and neutralise with 6M hydrochloric acid. The sludge may be added to land fill.
ENVIRONMENT
No data available.

 


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