NAPHTHALENE (C₁₀H₈)

SYNONYMS
None known.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Use a fume hood if handling large quantities.
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation of the vapour.
Avoid ingestion.
Keep away from heat or naked flames.
Keep away from oxidising materials.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
CHARACTERISTICS
White crystals or crystalline marbles with an aromatic odour.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is an eye irritant and is moderately toxic when ingested or the vapour is inhaled. The recommended threshold limit for vapour inhalation is 10ppm. It can be absorbed through the skin in doses large enough to cause moderate toxicity. It readily ignites in the presence of a naked flame.
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 signs of toxicity 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 persists seek immediate medical attention.
Inhalation ­ remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. Keep warm and allow to rest. In severe cases seek medical attention.
Ingestion ­ wash out the mouth thoroughly with water and give water to drink. Seek immediate medical advice.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Can react violently with some oxidising materials. It readily ignites in the presence of a naked flame. Heating produces carbon dioxide.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away all sources of ignition.
HANDLING
Use a fume hood if handling large quantities. Use a well ventilated area that will keep the level of exposure below the recommended threshold limit, ie. 10ppm. If exposure is expected to exceed this limit then a respirator is recommended. Wear protective clothing. 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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