ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
GLYCEROL (CH2OHCHOHCH2OH)
SYNONYMS
Glycerin, glycerine, propan-1,2,3-triol, 1,2,3-propanetriol,
trihydroxypropane.
CHARACTERISTICS
Clear, colourless viscous liquid. Combustible.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Can react violently with strong oxidising agents such as
chromates, dichromates, potassium permanganate, sodium peroxide,
silver perchlorate, calcium perchlorate, potassium peroxide and
perchloric acid. Reaction with concentrated nitric acid can form
nitroesters which can be explosive. Can react violently with
fuming sulphuric acid.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
Glycerol is an eye irritant. It is practically non harmful to
skin although prolonged skin contact can cause dermatitis.
Inhalation will irritate mucous membranes. Ingestion can cause
drowsiness, gastrointestinal pain, cramps, nausea, vomiting,
diarrhoea and unconsciousness. If excessively large amounts are
ingested coma and death may result. Chronic poisoning by
ingestion or inhalation can produce headache, giddiness,
disturbance of vision, smell, taste and sleep, trembling of the
limbs, weakness and mental excitement. These symptoms may be
accompanied by loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Keep away from moisture.
Keep away from concentrated nitric and concentrated sulphuric
acids.
Combustible, keep away from heat or naked flames.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing. A long sleeved laboratory coat or
gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum
standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin immediately remove contaminated clothing and 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 dermatitis develops seek 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). If irritation or pain persist seek
immediate medical attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. If
breathing has ceased apply artificial respiration. Keep warm and
allow to rest. If irritation persists or develops seek medical
attention.
Ingestion wash out the mouth thoroughly with water and give
water to drink. If pain or irritation develop seek medical
attention.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from incompatible
substances.
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 leak: 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
No data available.
BACK to the
top of the Glossary Contents List
BACK to the top of the
Chemical Contents List