2365

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

OSHA Emergency Overview Appearance clear, light brown or colorless liquid. Flash Point Not flammable. Danger! Corrosive. Causes severe digestive and respiratory tract burns. Causes severe eye and skin burns. Harmful if swallowed or inhaled.

Potential health effects

Inhalation: Respiratory tract irritant, may cause serious burns on acute contact. Severe injury is usually avoided by the self-limiting coughing and sneezing symptoms. Ingestion: Toxic! Corrosive to mucous membranes and may cause perforation of the esophagus and stomach. Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, general gastro-intestinal upset can be expected. Skin Contact: Irritant, possibly corrosive if contact is prolonged. Soreness, redness, damage to skin may result. Eye Contact: Irritant, possibly corrosive to eye tissues. Tearing, redness, pain, impaired vision are symptoms. Chronic Exposure: Development of a defatting dermatitis on prolonged contact with potassium hydroxide has been reported. Continued irritation may lead to increased susceptibility to respiratory illness. Aggravation of Pre-existing Conditions: Persons with pre-existing skin disorders or eye problems, or impaired kidney or respiratory function may be more susceptible to the effects of the substance. Target Organs: Eyes, skin, respiratory system, mucous membranes.