AMMONIUM BROMIDE (NH₄Br)

SYNONYMS
None known.
CHARACTERISTICS
White crystalline powder.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Heating produces toxic fumes of bromine.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
Ammonium bromide is regarded as having a low toxicity and will only give temporary discomfort if inhaled or if eye contact is made. It may be harmful if ingested, particularly in large amounts. Has had a mutagenic effect on laboratory animals and human lymphocytes. If eye contact occurs immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed. If discomfort persists seek medical attention. If inhaled remove from exposure. If discomfort persists seek medical attention. If ingested wash out the mouth with water and give plenty of water to drink. If ingested in large amounts seek medical attention. Handle when wearing appropriate protective clothing which should include gloves and goggles. Avoid contact with the mouth.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Use a fume hood.
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion of the powder.
Keep away from heat.
Not to be handled by staff who are pregnant.
Use a fume hood to minimise exposure to this substance. Wear protective clothing. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin ­ immediately remove contaminated clothing and 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). If signs of toxicity develop seek medical advice. Wash contaminated clothing before re­use.
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 or pain persist seek immediate medical attention.
Inhalation ­ remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. If breathing has ceased apply artificial respiration. Keep warm and allow to rest. If irritation persists or signs of toxicity develop seek medical attention.
Ingestion ­ wash out the mouth thoroughly with water and give water to drink. Do not induce vomiting. Induce vomiting by touching a finger to the back of the throat. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Seek immediate medical advice.
STORAGE
Keep the container tightly closed in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat.
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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