ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences

 


 

HISTOLENE (C10H16) A naturally occurring hydrocarbon found in plants.

SYNONYMS
1­methyl­4(1­methylethenyl) cyclohexane p­mentha­1,8­diene, d­limonene, Safsolv, Histoclear, dipentene.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid skin contact, can cause dermatitis.
Avoid inhalation.
Keep away from heat or naked flames.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
CHARACTERISTICS
Clear liquid of low viscosity with a fresh, light and sweet citrusy odour. The taste is sweet, refreshing, citrus­like and mild. Combustible.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
Moderately toxic and a mild skin, eye and respiratory tract irritant. Dermatitis with sensitisation can develop after prolonged exposure. Inhalation can cause headache and mild disorientation. Haematuria and albuminaria have been reported.
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 or sensitisation occur 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 medical advice.
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, even several hours after exposure, seek medical attention.
Ingestion ­ if the victim is conscious and convulsions are not present, give two to four glasses of milk or water to drink then seek medical advice.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Combustible liquid, keep away from heat or naked flames.
STORAGE
Store in a refrigerator under an inert atmosphere and protect from long exposure to light.
HANDLING
Use under a fume hood to keep levels of exposure low. Wear protective clothing. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown and rubber gloves, which should be nitrile, PVA or viton. Safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum standard.
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:

 


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