1,1-DIFLUOROETHANE

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: 1,1-Difluoroethane is a colorless, odorless, flammable, liquefied gas. 1,1- Difluoroethane can cause central nervous system depression after inhalation exposures. Symptoms of such over-exposure can include drowsiness, nausea, headache, fatigue, and weakness. At high concentrations, the gas can act as an asphyxiant, by displacing oxygen. Therefore, exposure to high concentrations of this gas can be fatal. Frostbite can be caused by contact with rapidly expanding gases or the liquefied gas. Vapors of 1,1-Difluoroethane are heavier than air and may spread long distances; distant ignition and flash-back are possible. When involved in a fire, toxic decomposition fumes include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and hydrogen fluoride. Emergency responders must wear the proper personal protective equipment (and have appropriate fire-suppression equipment) suitable for the situation to which they are responding. SYMPTOMS OF OVER-EXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of over-exposure for this HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INFORMATION gas is by inhalation. SYSTEM Over-exposure by inhalation may cause nausea, headache, weakness or temporary nervous system depression. The effects HEALTH (BLUE) 0 of central nervous system depression can include headache, confusion, incoordination and loss of consciousness. Exposures to high concentrations (greater than 20%) of this gas FLAMMABILITY may cause temporary lung irritation effects such as cough, (RED) 4 discomfort, difficulty breathing, or shortness of breath. Over- exposure to high concentrations can also lead to temporary alteration of the heart’s electrical activity with irregular pulse or palpitations. In addition, over-exposure to high levels of REACTIVITY (YELLOW) 1 Difluoroethane can cause inadequate circulation, abnormal kidney function (as detected by laboratory tests) and death. Deliberate abuse of Difluoroethane by aerosol “sniffing” and use PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT B or misuse of brochiodilator aerosols can result in death. The cause of death is usually related to irregular heartbeat leading to EYES RESPIRATORY HANDS BODY cardiac arrest. These effects have not been reported in the workplace. See Section 8 High concentrations of this gas can also cause an oxygen- deficient environment. Individuals breathing such an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches, ringing in For routine industrial applications 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. HEALTH EFFECTS OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE: An Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to may cause the following health effects: ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with this product is inhalation of high concentrations of Difluoroethane. Such over-exposure can cause central nervous system depression and can cause oxygen deficiency. 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 confirmed adverse health effects on humans associated with chronic exposure to this compressed gas. TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system, central nervous system, circulatory system and heart, kidneys. 1,1-DIFLUOROETHANE - CH3CHF2 MSDS Effective Date JUNE 1, 1998 PAGE 2 OF 8