Methanol (CH3OH)

2.1 Classification of the substance or mixture

Flammable Liquid, Category 1, Acute Toxicity Category 1*, Reproductive Toxicity 1B, Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Repeated Exposure) Label: Hazard Communication: DANGER! Extremely flammable liquid and vapour. Fatal if swallowed. May damage fertility or the unborn child (fetotoxic and teratogenic effects). May cause damage to eyes and central nervous system if ingested or inhaled. *Note: Assigned to classification based on human experience rather than the strict application of classification criteria set out in the Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Model Regulations Special Provision 279. Colourless liquid, with a mild, characteristic alcohol odour when pure. Crude methanol may have a repulsive, pungent odour. Hygroscopic (moisture absorbing). FLAMMABLE LIQUID AND VAPOUR: Burns with a clean, clear flame, which is almost invisible in daylight, or a light blue flame. Can decompose at high temperatures forming carbon monoxide and formaldehyde. Methanex Corporation - 1 - Confined space toxicity hazard. Mild central nervous system depressant following inhalation, skin absorption or ingestion. May cause headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, and un-coordination. Severe vision effects, including increased sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and blindness may develop following an 8-24 hour symptom-free period. Coma and death may result. IRRITANT: Causes eye irritation. Aspiration hazard. Swallowing or vomiting of the liquid may result in aspiration (breathing) into the lungs. POSSIBLE REPRODUCTIVE HAZARD: May cause fetotoxic (toxic to the fetus during the latter stages of pregnancy, often through the placenta) and teratogenic effects (causing malformations of the fetus), based on animal information.

NFPA Ratings

Health, Fire, Reactivity) 1, 3, 0