ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
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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