PROPANE

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Propane is a colorless, liquefied, flammable gas with a natural gas odor, which rapidly turns into a gas at standard atmospheric temperature and pressure. Both the liquid and gas pose a serious fire hazard when accidentally released. The gas is heavier than air, and may spread long distances. Distant ignition and flashback are possible. Rapid evaporation of liquid from cylinder may cause frostbite. Flame or high temperature impinging on a localized area of the cylinder of Propane can cause the cylinder to burst or rupture without activating the cylinder’s relief devices. Propane is an asphyxiant and presents a significant health hazard by displacing the oxygen in the atmosphere. Provide adequate fire protection during emergency response situations. SYMPTOMS OF OVER-EXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of over-exposure for HAZARDOUS MATERIAL INFORMATION Propane is by inhalation. SYSTEM INHALATION: At high concentrations, Propane can act as a HEALTH (BLUE) 1 narcotic. 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 propane in air would be exceeded; possibly causing an oxygen-deficient and (RED) 4 explosive atmosphere. Individuals breathing an oxygen deficient FLAMMABILITY 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 REACTIVITY (YELLOW) 0 may occur. The following effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows: PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT B CONCENTRATION SYMPTOM OF EXPOSURE 12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular EYES coordination RESPIRATORY HANDS slightly BODY disturbed. 10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, See Section 8 disturbed respiration. 6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss For routine industrial applications of consciousness. Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death.

Potential health effects

OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE An Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to this gas mixture may cause the following health effects: ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with Propane 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 the components of this compressed gas. TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system.