Ethane

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

atmosphere in low-lying areas. Main Hazards All cylinders are portable gas containers, and 6 ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES must be regarded as pressure vessels at all Personal Do not enter any area where Ethane has been times. Ethane is highly flammable and is

Precautionary statements

spilled unless tests have shown that it is safe to slightly heavier than air. This could cause do so. pockets of gas to collect in low-lying areas. Environmental the danger of widespread formation of Adverse Health The gas is a simple asphyxiant, and at high explosive Ethane/air mixtures should be taken Effects concentrations could cause narcosis. No into account. Accidental ignition could result in definite symptoms have been observed in a massive explosion. concentrations up to 5%. Direct contact with Small spills Do not extinguish the fire unless the leakage can the liquid form can cause frostbite and freeze- be stopped immediately. Once the fire has been burns in exposed tissues. extinguished and all spills have been stopped, Chemical hazards None. ventilate the area. Biological Hazards Large spills Stop the source if it can be done without risk. Eye contact (gas) No known effect Contain the leaking liquid, with sand or earth, or (Liquid) Serious burns disperse with special water/fog spray nozzle. Skin contact (gas) No known effect Allow evaporating. Take the precautions as (Liquid) Serious burns listed above under “Emergency Actions”. Ingestion (liquid) Serious burns Restrict access to the area until completion of FIRST AID MEASURES the clean-up procedure. Ventilate the area using Prompt medical attention is mandatory in all cases of overexposure to forced draught if necessary. All electrical vaporized Ethane. Rescue personnel should be equipped with self- equipment should be flameproof. contained breathing apparatus. In case of frostbite from contact with 7 HANDLING AND STORAGE the liquid phase, place the frostbitten part in warm water, about 40 - 42°C. If warm water is not available, or is impractical to use, wrap Cylinders containing Ethane should only be handled and stored in the the affected part gently in blankets. Encourage the patient to exercise vertical position. Cylinders should never be rolled. Do not allow the affected part whilst it is being warmed. Do not remove clothing cylinders to slide or come into contact with sharp edges and they while frosted. Conscious persons should be assisted to an should be handled carefully. Ensure that cylinders are stored away uncontaminated area and inhale fresh air. Quick removal from the from other oxidants. Comply with all local legislation. Keep out of contaminated area is most important. Unconscious persons should be reach of children. removed to an uncontaminated area, and given mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and supplemental oxygen. Eye contact (With liquid phase) Immediately flush with large quantities of tepid water, or with sterile saline solution. Seek medical attention. 8 EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION Skin contact Occupational as vaporized Ethane is a simple asphyxiant, (With liquid phase) See above for handling frostbite. Exposure hazards avoid any areas where spillage has taken place. Ingestion Ingestion is unlikely. Liquid could cause severe Only enter once testing has proved the burns. atmosphere to be safe. Engineering Engineering control measures are preferred to Control measures reduce exposures. General methods include forced-draught ventilation, separate from other exhaust ventilation systems. Ensure that sufficient fresh air enters at, or near, floor level. Ensure that all electrical equipment is flameproof.