Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

Emergency Overview Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate is a deliquescent, white solid, in prilled form. Dusts of this product may cause irritation to the eyes, skin, nose and throat. Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate is not combustible. Use extinguishing media appropriate for surrounding fire. Thermal decomposition of this product produces irritating vapors and toxic gases (e.g. hydrogen chloride, chlorine). Emergency responders should wear proper personal protective equipment for the releases to which they are responding.

Hazard statements

CAUTION! MAY CAUSE RESPIRATORY TRACT IRRITATION. MAY CAUSE EYE AND SKIN IRRITATION. Avoid contact with eyes and skin. Avoid breathing dusts. Wash thoroughly after handling. Keep container closed. Use with adequate ventilation.

Potential health effects

Eyes Exposure to particulates or solution of this product may cause irritation of the eyes with symptoms such as stinging, tearing, redness and pain. Skin Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate can cause irritation of the skin, especially after prolonged exposures. Repeated skin contact may lead to dermatitis (red, cracked skin). Symptoms are generally alleviated when exposure ends. Ingestion Ingestion of Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate (especially in large volumes) can irritate the tissues of the mouth, esophagus, and other tissues of the digestive system. Symptoms of exposure can include vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. Inhalation Breathing dusts or particulates generated by Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate can lead to irritation of the nose, throat or respiratory system. Symptoms of such exposure could include coughing, sneezing, and chest discomfort. Symptoms are generally alleviated when exposure ends. Inhalation of fumes from decomposition of Magnesium Chloride Hexahydrate can cause metal fume fever. Symptoms of metal fume fever include chills, cough, weakness, chest pain, muscle pain and increased white blood cell count.

Health hazards

1 Fire Hazard 0

Physical hazards

1 Hazard Scale: 0 = Minimal 1 = Slight 2 = Moderate 3 = Serious 4 = Severe * = Chronic hazard