Calcium Chloride, Solid

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Dust is irritating to respiratory tract. See "Other Health Effects" Section. Can decompose at high temperatures forming toxic gases. Sealed containers may rupture from the pressure of water vapours released from crystals by intense heat. Pag 02/07

Potential health effects

Inhalation: Dust is irritating to respiratory tract. Excessive contact with powder may cause drying of mucous membranes of nose and throat due to absorption of moisture and oils. Dry Calcium Chloride can produce considerable amounts of heat when dissolving into water. (3) Product may cause severe irritation of the nose, throat and respiratory tract. Repeated and/or prolonged exposures may cause productive cough, running nose, bronchopneumonia, pulmonary edema (fluid build-up in lungs), and reduction of pulmonary function. See "Other Health Effects" Section. Skin Contact: This product may cause irritation due to abrasive action. Avoid handling when the skin is moist, wet or abraded. Dry Calcium Chloride can produce considerable amounts of heat when dissolving into water. (3) In the presence of moisture (perspiration, humidity, tears), the dust dissolves to form a solution which may cause burns. Prolonged, confined (especially under the finger nails, under rings or watch bands) or repeated exposure may cause skin irritation and possibly lead to (chemical) burns. Skin Absorption: A single, prolonged skin exposure is not likely to result in the absorption of toxic amounts of the material. Eye Contact: This product may cause irritation, redness and possible damage due to abrasiveness. Contact can cause eye burns. May cause corneal damage and conjunctivitis. Ingestion: Single dose oral toxicity is considered to be low, and it is unlikely that accidental ingestion could cause any toxic effects in the body. Large doses of this product causes severe burning and pain in the mouth, throat and abdomen. Vomiting, diarrhea and perforation of the esophagus and stomach lining may occur.

Other Health Effects

Effects (irritancy) on the skin and eyes may be delayed, and damage may occur without the sensation or onset of pain. Strict adherence to first aid measures following any exposure is essential. May cause perforated nasal septum, gastrointestinal irritation or ulceration and cardiac arrhythmia. Calcium Chloride may sensitize heart muscle causing cardiac arrhythmia, in rare cases. (4)