ACETYLENE

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: This product is a colorless, flammable gas, with a garlic-like odor, that is dissolved in acetone. Acetylene poses an extreme fire hazard when accidentally released. The main health hazard associated with a release of Acetylene is asphyxiation by displacement of oxygen. Acetylene is lighter than air, and may spread long distances. Distant ignition and flashback are possible. Flame or high temperature impinging on a localized area of the cylinder of this product can cause the cylinder to rupture violently without activating the cylinder’s relief devices. Acetylene is an asphyxiant and presents a significant health hazard by displacing the oxygen in the atmosphere. Provide adequate fire protection during emergency response situations. Acetylene may decompose explosively at elevated temperatures and pressures. (Continued) SYMPTOMS OF OVER-EXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of over-exposure for this product is by inhalation. INHALATION: Acetylene, at concentration below the LEL of 2.5% (25000 ppm), is essentially non-toxic. At higher concentrations, Acetylene has anesthetic effects. Symptoms of over-exposure to such high concentrations may include drowsiness, dizziness, and a general feeling of weakness. High concentrations of this gas can cause an oxygen-deficient environment. It should be noted that before suffocation could occur, the lower flammability limit of Acetylene in air would be exceeded; possibly causing an oxygen-deficient and explosive atmosphere. Individuals breathing such an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches, ringing in ears, dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, and depression of all the senses. Under some circumstances of over-exposure, death may occur. The following effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows: CONCENTRATION SYMPTOM OF EXPOSURE 12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular coordination slightly disturbed. 10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, disturbed respiration. 6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss of consciousness. Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death. OTHER POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS: Acetylene is generally non-irritating to the skin and eyes. Acetylene is dissolved in a solvent, usually acetone. Any skin or eye contact with the solvent may be slightly irritating to contaminated skin or eyes.

Potential health effects

OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE An Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to Acetylene may cause the following health effects: ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with this product is inhalation of oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Symptoms of oxygen deficiency include respiratory difficulty, ringing in ears, headaches, shortness of breath, wheezing, headache, dizziness, indigestion, nausea, and, at high concentrations, unconsciousness or death may occur. The skin of a victim of over-exposure may have a blue color. CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic exposure to Acetylene. TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system, central nervous system.