ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
METOL [(HOC6H4NHCH3)2H2SO4]
SYNONYMS
(PMethylaminophenolsulphate)
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation.
Avoid ingestion.
Keep away from heat or naked flames.
Keep the container tightly sealed.
Store in the dark.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
CHARACTERISTICS
White crystalline powder.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is a skin and eye irritant which may cause
sensitisation of the skin. It is toxic if inhaled or ingested.
TREATMENTS
Skin immediately 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
irritation persists or an allergic reaction begins seek medical
attention.
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 persists seek medical
attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. If
respiration has ceased apply artificial respiration. Keep warm
and allow to rest. If respiratory distress persists seek medical
advice.
Ingestion wash the mouth with water then give water to drink.
Seek immediate medical attention.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Heating produces toxic fumes of sulphur and nitrogen compounds.
Discolours in the Presence of light or air.
STORAGE
Store in the dark, in a tightly sealed container, in a cool, dry
atmosphere away from heat.
HANDLING
Wear protective clothing to avoid skin or eye contact,
inhalation or ingestion. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown,
rubber gloves, 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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