TETRAFLUOROMETHANE

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Tetrafluoromethane is an odorless, colorless non-flammable, liquefied gas. Tetrafluoromethane can cause central nervous system depression after inhalation exposures. Symptoms of such over-exposure can include drowsiness, fatigue, and weakness. At high concentrations, the gas can act as an asphyxiant, by displacing oxygen. Therefore, exposure to high concentrations of this gas can be fatal. Frostbite can be caused by contact with rapidly expanding gases or the liquefied gas. This gas is not flammable and not reactive in normal emergency response situations. However, if involved in a fire, this product can decompose to produce toxic gases (i.e. hydrogen fluoride, phosgene). SYMPTOMS OF OVER-EXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of over-exposure for this gas is by inhalation. INHALATION: Exposures to high concentrations of this gas may cause sensitization of the heart to adrenaline and nor-adrenaline. Effects of such over-exposure can include light-headedness, giddiness, shortness of breath and in extreme cases, irregular heartbeats, cardiac arrest, and death. High concentrations of this gas can cause an oxygen-deficient environment. Individuals breathing such an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches, ringing in ears, dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, and depression of all the senses. Under some circumstances of over-exposure, death may occur, due to the displacement of oxygen. The following effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows: CONCENTRATION SYMPTOM OF EXPOSURE 12-16% Oxygen: Breathing and pulse rate increased, muscular coordination slightly disturbed. 10-14% Oxygen: Emotional upset, abnormal fatigue, disturbed respiration. 6-10% Oxygen: Nausea and vomiting, collapse or loss of consciousness. Below 6%: Convulsive movements, possible respiratory collapse, and death.

Potential health effects

OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE An Explanation in Lay Terms. Over-exposure to Tetrafluoromethane may cause the following health effects: ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with this gas is inhalation of oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Symptoms of oxygen deficiency include respiratory difficulty, ringing in ears, headaches, shortness of breath, wheezing, headache, dizziness, indigestion, nausea, and, at high concentrations, unconsciousness or death may occur. The skin of a victim of over-exposure may have a blue color. CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic exposure to this product. TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system.