ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
CANADA BALSAM
Canada balsam is a liquid oleoresin with variable molecular
formula and is used as a natural mounting medium for
microscopical preparations. In natural form it has a low level
of toxicity. When dissolved in a solvent the greatest danger to
the handler is the solvent. Canada balsam is soluble in benzene,
chloroform, xylene, ether and ethanol. For microscopical
preparations the most commonly used solvent is xylene. For
hazards related to the use of xylene refer to xylene in this
section. In its natural state there is a negligible fire or
explosion hazard but this state will change when canada balsam
is dissolved in a solvent.
SYNONYMS
Canada turpentine, balsam of fir.
CHARACTERISTICS
Yellowish to greenish, viscid, transparent, slightly fluorescent
liquid with an agreeable pinelike odour and bitter taste.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Sources of combustion
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
In its natural state it may be a mild irritant to the skin. It
has a very low level of toxicity when ingested. There is no data
available on inhalation or eye contact although it should be
assumed that an oleoresin will irritate eyes. The greatest
danger from using canada balsam is from its solvent which is
normally a xylene.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid skin contact, can cause dermatitis.
Exposure limits have not been established for canada balsam. The
handling needs to be related to the solvent rather than to
canada balsam.
TREATMENTS
Skin canada balsam is sticky, it may therefore be necessary to
remove it with a solvent. After removal the affected area should
be well washed with soap or mild detergent and large amounts of
water until all evidence of the chemical and solvent have been
removed (approximately 15 minutes). If irritation persists or
dermatitis develops seek medical attention. It is very difficult
to remove canada balsam from clothing. If a solvent is used on
clothing to remove canada balsam then the clothing should be
well washed 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 persists seek medical
attention.
Inhalation there is no data available on inhalation of canada
balsam. If a staff member is affected and appears distressed
seek medical attention.
Ingestion immediately give two to four glasses of water then
induce vomiting by touching a finger to the back of the throat.
Seek immediate medical advice. Safety measures taken when
handling canada balsam also need to be related to the solvent.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry, well ventilated area.
DISPOSAL
WEAR:
Rubber gloves, face shield and laboratory coat. Have an all
purpose canister respirator available.
SPILLS:
A gas leak - keep the concentration of the gas below the
explosive mixture range by forced ventilation. Remove the tank
to an open area and allow dissipation to the atmosphere. Attempt
to cap the valve outlet and return the tank to the supplier.
A liquid - absorb on paper. Evaporate in an iron pan in a flame
proof fume hood then burn the paper.
A solid - sweep on to paper and place in an iron pan in a fume
hood. Burn the paper and compound.
PACKAGE LOTS:
A gas - pipe the gas into an incinerator or lower into a pit and
allow to burn.
A liquid - atomise into an incinerator. Combustion may be
improved by mixing with a more flammable solvent.
A solid - make up packages in paper or other flammable material.
Burn in the incinerator. Or the solid may be dissolved in a
flammable solvent and sprayed into a fire chamber.
ENVIRONMENT
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