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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