Kerosene

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

1. The major effect of exposure to this product is headache, drowsiness, irritation of the eyes and nose, and lungs. Target organs include the respira- tory system, nervous system, and mucous membranes. 2. NIOSH recommends that whole diesel engine exhaust be regarded as a potential occupational carcinogen. Follow OSHA and NSHA rules where diesel engine exhaust fumes may be generated. 3. A life time skin painting study by the American Petroleum Institute has shown that similar naphtha products with a boiling range of 350-700 degrees F usually produce skin tumors and/ or skin cancers in laboratory mice. Only a weak to moderate response occurred. The effect to humans has not been determined. Contact dermatitis (skin irritation) may occur with prolonged or repeated contact. 4. IARC has listed kerosene as probably carcinogenic to humans based on sufficient evidence in experimental animals and limited evidence in humans. Hazards of Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide can be found in the combustion products of this product and other forms of hydrocarbon combustion. Carbon monoxide in moderate concentrations can cause symptoms of headache, nausea, vomiting, increased cardiac output, and confusion. Exposure to higher concentrations of carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness, heart damage, brain damage, and/or death. Exposure to high concentrations of carbon dioxide can cause simple asphyxiation by displacing available oxygen. Combustion of this and other similar materials should only be carried out in well ventilated areas. The National Kerosene Heater Association has released preliminary test results that indicate no increased emissions of carbon monoxide or nitrogen dioxide resulted from using red-dyed kerosene in "new generation" heaters.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure

Medical conditions which have the same symptoms and effects as those outlined under the

Health hazards

information section can be aggraved by exposure to this product

Principle Routes of Exposure

Inhalation: Irritation of the upper respiratory tract and eyes, with possible euphoria, dizziness, headache, discoordination, ringing in the ears, convul- sions, coma, and respiratory arrest. Skin Contact: Defatting of the skin may occur with continued and prolonged contact. Irritation and burning sensation may occur on exposure to the liquid or mists, as well as the possibility of blisters. Hair loss can occur upon chronic exposure. Skin Absorption: Not significant. Eye Contact: Severe burning sensation with temporary irritation and swelling of lids. Ingestion: Irritation of the mucous membranes of throat, esophagus and stomach which may result in nausea and vomiting; central nervous system depression may occur, if absorbed (see inhalation symptoms above). If aspirated, chemical pneumonitis may occur with potentially fatal results. Carcinogenicity Statement: Kerosene is not listed as carcinogenic by NTP, OSHA, and ACGIH. IARC has listed kerosene as a probable human carcinogen (2A).