GLYCINE (NH2CH2COOH)

SYNONYMS
Aminoacetic acid, glycocol.
CHARACTERISTICS
White, crystalline powder.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Combustible substance, keep away from heat or naked flames.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
A combustible solid and should never be handled or stored close to heat or a naked flame. There is very little data available on the effects of this chemical on human health, but it is known that it can be absorbed into the body by inhalation or ingestion. Eye contact causes redness and may cause pain. Inhalation causes coughing and ingestion causes nausea.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid inhalation.
Keep away from heat or naked flames.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing to avoid skin or eye contact and inhalation. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin ­ immediately wash the affected area with large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes). If irritation persists or other symptoms develop, seek medical advice.
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 exposure to fresh air. Rest in a half­upright position and seek medical attention if necessary.
Ingestion ­ rinse the mouth with water and give water to drink. Seek medical attention if necessary.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat or naked flames.
DISPOSAL
WEAR:
Rubber gloves, self contained breathing apparatus or all purpose canister respirator, and laboratory coat.
SPILLS:
Eliminate all sources of ignition. Turn on the fume hood if the acid is volatile. Cover the spill on bench or floor, with an excess of sodium bicarbonate and vermiculite. Mix and scoop into a large beaker of water. When the reaction is complete discharge to the sewer with a large excess of water. Wash the spill site with soap solution.
PACKAGE LOTS: Either
1 Pour on to an excess of sodium bicarbonate. Mix and scoop into a bucket. Dump into a 200 litre drum and fill with water. After 24 hours slowly discharge to sewer with a large excess of water.
OR
2 Pour on to vermiculite in an open incinerator. Cover with scrap wood and paper. Pour waste alcohol over all and ignite with a torch or fuse. Stay on the upwind side.
OR
3 Dissolve in a flammable solvent such as waste alcohol. Spray into an incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber.
ENVIRONMENT:

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