ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
EPOXYPROPANE (CH3CHOCH2)
SYNONYMS
Methyloxirane, propylene oxide.
CHARACTERISTICS
Colourless, flammable liquid with an ethereal odour.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Incompatible with strong oxidising agents, metal salts and
strong bases. Heating produces toxic fumes of carbon.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This chemical is carcinogenic (Category 2 carcinogen, Worksafe
Australia). The liquid and vapour cause eye irritation. Liquid
splashes to the eyes will cause burns. Skin contact causes
irritation, blistering and can cause severe burns. Rapid
evaporation can cause frostbite. Inhalation can cause irritation
and narcosis. The presence of odour is an indication that
dangerously high concentrations of vapour are present. Ingestion
causes corrosion, abdominal pain and spasm.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Carcinogen, handle with extreme care.
Flammable, keep away from heat and naked flames.
Avoid skin or eye contact.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion.
Keep away from oxidising agents.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing to avoid skin or eye contact. A long
sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles
as a minimum standard.
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 persists or burns or blistering develops seek
immediate medical attention. Remove contaminated clothing and
wash before re-use.
Eyes immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of
water until all evidence of the dye 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. Keep
warm and allow to rest. If irritation develops and persists seek
immediate medical attention.
Ingestion wash out the mouth thoroughly with water and give
two to four glasses of water to drink. Never give anything by
mouth to a person that is not conscious. Seek immediate medical
attention.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry, well ventilated atmosphere away from
incompatible substances. Keep the container tightly closed.
DISPOSAL
WEAR:
Rubber gloves, large, heavy face shield (if any doubt also use a
body shield) and self contained breathing apparatus.
SPILLS:
Eliminate all sources of ignition. Absorb the spill on a paper
towel. Evaporate from an iron pan in a fume hood that is flash
proof. Allow time for the vapours to completely escape the hood
vents, then burn the paper. If a large spill, absorb using
larger quantities of paper or vermiculite. Then proceed as
above.
PACKAGE LOTS: Either
1 Pour on the ground in an open area. Allow to evaporate or
ignite from a safe distance by means of a long fuse.
OR
2 Dissolve the waste in a high alcohol (eg. butyl), benzene or
petroleum ether then incinerate.
OR
3 If ether peroxides are present - DO NOT OPEN THE CONTAINER.
Explosions have occurred when stoppers were removed or caps
turned. Transport the can or bottle to an isolated area (eg.
deserted quarry). Each container or bottle should be wrapped in
padding material or packed in sawdust. At the site, uncover the
containers and arrange a fuse. from a safe distance puncture the
container near the bottom with rifle fire. Ignite the fuse.
Always observe local regulations.
ENVIRONMENT
This substance has a low potential to affect aquatic life. it is
expected to be biodegradable and is not likely to bioconcentrate.
When diluted with water and released directly into the
environment it is unlikely to cause a significant impact.
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