Boric Acid

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

Emergency overview Boric acid is a white odourless, powdered substance that is not flammable, combustible, or explosive, and has low acute oral and dermal toxicity.

Potential health effects

Inhalation is the most significant route of exposure in occupational and other settings. Dermal exposure is not usually a concern because boric acid is poorly absorbed through intact skin. Inhalation Occasional mild irritation effects to nose and throat may occur from inhalation of boric acid dusts at levels greater than 5 mg/m3. 1 Eye contact Boric acid is non-irritating to eyes in normal industrial use. Skin contact Boric acid does not cause irritation to intact skin. Ingestion Products containing boric acid are not intended for ingestion. Boric acid has low acute toxicity. Small amounts (e.g. a teaspoonful) swallowed accidentally are not likely to cause effects; swallowing amounts larger than that may cause gastrointestinal symptoms. Reproductive/Developmental Animal ingestion studies in several species, at high doses, indicate that borates cause reproductive and developmental effects. A human study of occupational exposure to borate dust showed no adverse effect on reproduction. Potential ecological effects Large amounts of boric acid can be harmful to plants and other species. Therefore releases to the environment should be minimised. Signs and symptoms of exposure Symptoms of accidental over-exposure to boric acid have been associated with ingestion or absorption through large areas of damaged skin. These may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, with delayed effects of skin redness and peeling (see section 11).