ETHANE - C2H6, GASEOUS

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Ethane is a colorless, flammable gas or a colorless, flammable cryogenic liquid. The gas or liquid may have a mild gasoline-like odor. The liquid rapidly boils to a gas at standard atmospheric temperatures and pressures. Ethane is an asphyxiant and presents a significant health hazard by displacing the oxygen in the atmosphere. 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. Contact with liquid or rapidly expanding gases may cause frostbite. Flame or high temperature impinging on a localized area of the cylinder of Ethane can cause the cylinder to rupture without activating the cylinder’s relief devices. Provide adequate fire protection during emergency response situations. SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of overexposure for this gas is by inhalation. The following paragraphs describe symptoms of exposure by route of exposure. (Continued) INHALATION: High concentrations of this gas can cause an oxygen-deficient environment. Individuals breathing such an HAZARDOUS MATERIAL IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches, ringing in ears, dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, and depression of all the senses. The skin of a victim

Health hazards

BLUE) 1 may have a blue color. Under some circumstances, death may occur. The effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows: CONCENTRATION SYMPTOMS OF EXPOSURE FLAMMABILITY HAZARD (RED) 4 12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular coordination slightly disturbed. 10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, disturbed respiration.

Physical hazards

YELLOW) 0 6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss of consciousness. Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death. PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT OTHER POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS: Contact with the cryogenic liquid or rapidly expanding gases may cause frostbite. EYES RESPIRATORY HANDS BODY Symptoms of frostbite include change in skin color to white or grayish-yellow. The pain after contact can quickly subside. See HEALTH EFFECTS OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE: An Explanation in Lay Terms. Overexposure to Ethane may cause the following health effects: For Routine Industrial Use and Handling Applications ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with this gas is See Section 16 for Definition of Ratings inhalation of oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Symptoms of oxygen deficiency include respiratory difficulty, headache, dizziness and nausea. At high concentrations, unconsciousness or death may occur. Contact with cryogenic liquid or rapidly expanding gases may cause frostbite. CHRONIC: Ethane is considered a weak heart sensitizing agent, based on animal tests. Chronic exposure to oxygen-deficient atmospheres (below 18% oxygen in air) may affect the heart and nervous system. TARGET ORGANS ACUTE Respiratory system. CHRONIC Central nervous system, heart What should I do if a hazardous situation occurs?