ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
METHYL BLUE (Colour Index No. 42780) (C37H27N3O9S3Na2)
SYNONYMS
Cotton blue, helvetia blue, ink blue, sky blue, soluble blue,
poirrier blue C4B.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid eye contact.
Combustible keep away from heat or naked flames.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion of the powder.
Keep away from oxidising materials.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
CHARACTERISTICS
Dark blue powder. Triaminotriphenylmethane dye.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
Little is known about the toxicity or general hazards associated
with this dye. However, other dyes in the
triaminotriphenylmethane group are known to be potential
carcinogens, eg. basic fuchsin. A sensible approach to handling
the dye would be to treat it in a similar fashion to basic
fuchsin. Methyl blue is an irritant to eyes, the respiratory
tract and the gastrointestinal tract. The powder is combustible
and should never be handled close to heat or a naked flame.
TREATMENTS
Skin wash the affected area with soap or mild detergent and
large amounts of water until all evidence of the dye has been
removed (approximately 15 minutes).
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 persists seek medical
attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. If
irritation persists seek immediate medical attention.
Ingestion wash out the mouth thoroughly with water. If
discomfort persists seek medical advice.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Combustible powder. Keep away from heat or naked flames. Can
react with oxidising materials. Heating produces toxic fumes of
nitrogen and sulphur compounds.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat or naked flames.
HANDLING
Use a fume hood to keep the level of exposure to a minimum. Wear
protective clothing. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown,
rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum
standard.
DISPOSAL
WEAR:
Heavy leather gloves and safety glasses.
DISPOSAL:
Materials should be properly packed for safe handling and placed
in a prescribed site for daily collection. Burning can be done
in an open or closed incinerator equipped with an afterburner.
ENVIRONMENT:
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