ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
BENZOYL CHLORIDE (C6H5COCl)
SYNONYMS
Benzenecarbonyl chloride.
CHARACTERISTICS
Clear to pale yellow liquid with a pungent odour that fumes on
contact with moisture in the air. It is a combustible substance
and should never be stored or handled close to heat or a naked
flame. The vapours are heavier than air and may travel a
considerable distance along the ground to a source of ignition
and flash back.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Heating produces toxic gases of phosgene and hydrochloric acid.
Benzoyl chloride is incompatible with water, strong oxidising
agents and alcohols.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is very toxic. It is a severe irritant and a
corrosive and will cause localised burns. Prolonged inhalation
can be fatal. Acute exposure to the skin and eyes causes
redness, pain and localised burns. Blurred vision may result.
Inhalation causes sore throat, coughing, shortness of breath and
laboured breathing. Ingestion causes sore throat and abdominal
pain.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Very toxic.
Use a fume hood.
Keep away from heat, sparks or naked flames.
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation of the vapour.
Avoid ingestion.
Keep away from moisture.
Keep the container tightly sealed.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Use a fume hood to avoid any contact with this liquid or its
vapours. Wear protective clothing. A long sleeved laboratory
coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles and a full face
shield.
TREATMENTS
Skin remove contaminated clothing and immediately wash the
affected area with large amounts of water until all evidence of
the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes). Seek
immediate medical attention. 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). Seek immediate medical attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. If
breathing has ceased apply artificial respiration. Sit in half
upright position and seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion rinse the mouth thoroughly with water and give
plenty of water to drink. Seek immediate medical attention.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat, moisture and
incompatible substances. Keep the container tightly sealed.
DISPOSAL
SPILLS: Cover with sodium carbonate. If a small quantity is
involved, scoop the mixture into a large beaker of water and let
it stand for a few minutes. Slowly discharge to sewer with a
large excess of water. If a large quantity is involved, scoop
the resulting bicarbonate mixture into a plastic bag, cardboard
or small fibre drum. This material can then be burned in an
incinerator or spread on the ground and flooded with water. The
site of the spill should be washed with soapy water.
PACKAGE LOTS: Slowly sift or pour into a large glass or plastic
vessel containing a layer of sodium carbonate. Mix thoroughly
and add slowly to a large container of water, with stirring.
Slowly discharge to sewer with a large excess of water.
ENVIRONMENT.
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