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.
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