Ethylene Dichloride (EDC)

Health hazards

Harmful if swallowed. Harmful if swallowed. Irritating to eyes, respiratory system and skin. Irritating to eyes, respiratory system and skin. Possibility of organ or organ system damage from prolonged exposure; see Chapter 11 for details. Target organ(s): Kidney. Liver. May cause cancer. May cause cancer. Possible risk of irreversible (genetic) effects. Signs and Symptoms Skin irritation signs and symptoms may include a burning sensation, redness, swelling, and/or blisters. Eye irritation signs and symptoms may include a burning sensation, redness, swelling, and/or blurred vision. Other signs and symptoms of central nervous system (CNS) depression may include headache, nausea, and lack of coordination. If material enters lungs, signs and symptoms may include coughing, choking, wheezing, difficulty in breathing, chest congestion, shortness of breath, and/or fever. Breathing of high vapor concentrations may cause central nervous system (CNS) depression resulting in dizziness, light-headedness, headache, nausea and loss of coordination. Continued inhalation may result in unconsciousness and death. Liver damage may be indicated by loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowish skin and eye color), fatigue, bleeding or easy bruising and sometimes pain and swelling in the upper right abdomen. Kidney damage may be indicated by changes in urine output or appearance, pain upon urination or in the lower back, or general edema (swelling from fluid retention).

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure

Pre-existing medical conditions of the following organ(s) or organ system(s) may be aggravated by exposure to this material: Skin. Eyes. Liver. Kidney. Safety Hazards Highly flammable. May form flammable/explosive vapor-air mixture.

Environmental hazards

Not classified as dangerous under EC criteria. Not classified as dangerous under EC criteria.