ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences

 


 

ISO-AMYL ALCOHOL CH3-CH(CH3)-CH2-CH2-OH

SYNONYMS
3-methyl-1-butanol, alcohol isoamylique, isoamylol, isopentyl alcohol, isoamyl alcohol.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Possible carcinogen.
Keep away from eyes and skin.
Avoid inhalation and ingestion.
Keep away from heat or naked flames.
Keep away from strong oxidising and reducing agents.
CHARACTERISTICS
Colourless liquid with a disagreeable odour.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
Flammable substance. Narcotic, the odour threshold is less than the TLV (100ppm). Has produced tumours in laboratory animals although it is not classified as a carcinogen in Australia. The vapours cause eye and respiratory tract irritation. The liquid causes severe eye irritation. There appear to be no harmful effects from skin contact except that prolonged exposure can cause drying and cracking. Exposure to high concentrations of vapour can cause headache, dizziness, nausea vomiting with eventual unconsciousness. Ingestion causes weakness, pain, burning, headache, dizziness, nausea nand unconsciousness. Coma and death may follow.
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). If irritation or dermatitis develops seek medical advice. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes and decontaminate before re-use.
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 persists seek immediate medical attention.
Inhalation - Remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. Keep warm and allow to rest. If breathing has stopped give artificial respiration. Seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion - Never give anything by mouth if the victim is losing consciousness, is unconscious or convulsing. Rinse the mouth thoroughly with water. Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Incompatible with strong oxidising agents and reducing agents with which there can be a vigorous reaction.
Heating produces toxic compounds of carbon.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry, well ventilated atmosphere out of direct sunlight and away from heat and incompatible substances.
HANDLING
Wear protective clothing. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown with elasticised wrist bands, rubber gloves (neoprene) and safety goggles as a minimum standard.
DISPOSAL
Dispose of in a high temperature incinerator equipped with afterburner and scrubber. Some authorities may accept for secure landfill.
ENVIRONMENT
No data available.

 


BACK to the top of the Glossary Contents List
BACK to the top of the Chemical Contents List

REFERENCES