ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences
SODIUM AZIDE (NaN3)
SYNONYMS
None known.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Explosive properties risk of explosion as result of
concussion, friction or heating.
Use a fume hood.
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Avoid inhalation or ingestion of the powder.
Keep away from heat or naked flames.
Keep away from combustible substances.
Keep away from metal powders.
Keep the container tightly sealed.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
CHARACTERISTICS
Colourless crystals. May decompose explosively on heating,
shock, concussion or friction. Reacts with silver, copper
forming compounds sensitive to mechanical shock, concussion,
friction or sparks. Do not discard solutions containing azides
down domestic sinks.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
May be absorbed by inhalation and ingestion; irritates eyes,
respiratory tract and mucous membranes. Affects nervous system
and may cause vascular system disorders. Inhalation causes shore
throat, coughing, shortness of breath, dizziness and faintness.
Skin contact causes redness and pain. Eye contact causes
redness, pain and blurred vision. Ingestion causes abdominal
pain, dizziness and spasms.
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
hypersensitivity develops seek medical attention.
Eyes 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 immediate medical
attention.
Inhalation remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. Keep
warm and allow to rest. If irritation persists or signs of
toxicity develop seek medical attention.
Ingestion wash out the mouth thoroughly with water and give
water to drink. Do not induce vomiting. Never give anything by
mouth to an unconscious person. Seek immediate medical advice.
INCOMPATIBILITY
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from heat or ignition
sources.
HANDLING
Use a fume hood to minimise exposure to this substance. 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:
Leather gloves, heavy face shield and laboratory coat. Work from
behind a barricade (body shield or wall). Avoid unnecessary
heat, friction or impact.
SPILLS:
Absorb the liquid with paper or vermiculite. If it is a solid,
dampen then brush on to paper with great care. Place in a
plastic bag and remove outside for burning.
OR
Sponge up with water, followed by decontamination with 10%
ammonium ceric nitrate solution. 'Kill', by adding to a greater
stoichiometric amount of ammonium ceric nitrate solution with
agitation sufficient to provide suspension of all solids. Cool
the reaction. The organic azides and heavy metal azides are
explosive. Alkali and alkaline earth azides are not considered
explosives under normal laboratory conditions. Keep the stock of
azides very low. Stamp the date of receipt upon the package.
ENVIRONMENT:
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