ACETYLENE GAS

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Acetylene is a colorless, flammable gas with a garlic-like odor, that is dissolved in a solvent called Acetone or Dimethylformamide (DMF). The main health hazard associated with a release of this gas is asphyxiation by displacement of oxygen. Acetylene gas poses an extreme fire hazard when accidentally released. The gas is lighter than air, and may spread long distances. Distant ignition and flashback are possible. Flame or high temperature impinging on a localized area of the cylinder of this product can cause the cylinder to explode without activating the cylinder’s relief devices. Acetylene gas may decompose explosively at elevated temperatures and pressures. Acetylene can form very explosive metallic salts (such as copper, mercury, and silver). Provide adequate fire protection during emergency response situations. SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE BY ROUTE OF EXPOSURE: The most significant route of over exposure for this gas is by inhalation. The following paragraphs describe symptoms of exposure by route of exposure. INHALATION: At concentration below the LEL or 2.5% (25000 ppm) this gas is essentially non-toxic. At higher concentrations, Acetylene has aesthetic effects. Symptoms of overexposure to higher concentrations may include dizziness, and a general feeling of weakness. High concentrations of this gas cause an oxygen-deficient environment. Individuals breathing such an atmosphere may experience symptoms which include headaches, ringing in the ears, dizziness, drowsiness, unconsciousness, nausea, vomiting, and depression of all the senses. The skin of the victim of overexposure may have a blue color. Under some circumstances of overexposure, death may occur. The following effects associated with various levels of oxygen are as follows: CONCENTRATION SYPTOMS 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 & vomiting, collapse or loss of consciousness Below 6% Convulsive movements possible respiratory collapse, and death When administered with oxygen at concentrations of 10% or greater, Acetylene produces varying degrees of temporary narcosis. OTHER POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS: The gas is generally non-irritating to the skin and eyes. Acetylene is dissolved in acetone or DMF. Any skin or eye contact with the acetone or DMF component of this product may be slightly irritating to contaminated skin or eyes.

Potential health effects

OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE An Explanation in Lay Terms. Overexposure to Acetylene may cause the following health effects: ACUTE: The most significant hazard associated with Acetylene is inhalation of oxygen-deficient atmospheres. Symptoms of oxygen deficiency include respiratory difficulty, ringing in ears, headaches, shortness of breath, wheezing, headache, dizziness, indigestion, and nausea. At high concentrations, unconsciousness or death may occur. CHRONIC: There are currently no known adverse health effects associated with chronic exposure to the components of this compressed gas. TARGET ORGANS: Respiratory system, central nervous system.