Ethylene Oxide

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

2.1 Classification of the substance or mixture

FLAMMABLE GASES - Category 1 GASES UNDER PRESSURE - Liquefied gas ACUTE TOXICITY (inhalation) - Category 3 SKIN CORROSION/IRRITATION - Category 2 SERIOUS EYE DAMAGE/ EYE IRRITATION - Category 2 GERM CELL MUTAGENICITY - Category 1B CARCINOGENICITY - Category 1B SPECIFIC TARGET ORGAN TOXICITY (SINGLE EXPOSURE) (Respiratory tract irritation) - Category 3

Signal word

Danger

Hazard statements

Extremely flammable gas. May form explosive mixtures with air. Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated. May cause frostbite. Toxic if inhaled. Causes serious eye irritation. Causes skin irritation. May cause genetic defects. May cause cancer. May cause respiratory irritation.

Precautionary statements

General : Read and follow all Safety Data Sheets (SDS’S) before use. Read label before use. Keep out of reach of children. If medical advice is needed, have product container or label at hand. Close valve after each use and when empty. Use equipment rated for cylinder pressure. Do not open valve until connected to equipment prepared for use. Use a back flow preventative device in the piping. Use only equipment of compatible materials of construction. Always keep container in upright position. Approach suspected leak area with caution.

Prevention

Never Put cylinders into unventilated areas of passenger vehicles. Obtain special instructions before use. Do not handle until all safety precautions have been read and understood. Use personal protective equipment as required. Wear protective gloves. Wear eye or face protection. Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames and hot surfaces. - No smoking. Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Avoid breathing gas. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.

Response

IF exposed or concerned Get medical attention. IF INHALED Remove victim to fresh air and keep at rest in a position comfortable for breathing. Call a POISON CENTER or physician. IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water. Take off contaminated clothing. Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. If skin irritation occurs: Get medical attention. IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. If eye irritation persists Get medical attention. Leaking gas fire Do not extinguish, unless leak can be stopped safely. Eliminate all ignition sources if safe to do so.

Storage

Store locked up. Protect from sunlight. Protect from sunlight when ambient temperature exceeds 52°C/125°F. Store in a well-ventilated place.

Disposal

Dispose of contents and container in accordance with all local, regional, national and international regulations.

2.3 Other hazards

Liquid can cause burns similar to frostbite.