Creosote Solution

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

Emergency Overview: Coal tar creosote is a brown to black, oily liquid with a strong aromatic, petroleum-like odor. This substance has been associated with acute and chronic health effects, including cancer.

Principle Routes of Exposure

Eyes, dermal, inhalation, ingestion

Potential Acute Health Effects

This substance causes substantial but temporary eye injury. It is harmful if swallowed or absorbed through skin. Exposure to the chemical causes eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation. Symptoms of systemic poisoning include nausea, salivation, vomiting, respiratory difficulties, dizziness, headache, loss of pupillary reflex, cyanosis, hypothermia, profuse sweating, and mild convulsions. Prolonged or frequent exposure may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Potential chronic health

Effects Prolonged and repeated skin exposure over the years in the absence of recommended hygiene practices may lead to changes in skin pigmentation, benign skin growth, and in some cases, result in skin cancer. Prolonged or repeated inhalation exposure may lead to respiratory system effects as inflammation and possibly changes in liver, thyroid and blood elements.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure

Persons with preexisting skin disorders or central nervous functional illnesses may be at increased risk from overexposure. Exposure to vapor may aggravate preexisting lung condition. Persons with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency of the red blood cells are more susceptible to hemolytic anemia.