Isopropyl alcohol, also known as isopropanol or IPA, is a colorless, flammable liquid with a strong odor. It is widely used as a solvent, a cleaning agent, and a disinfectant in various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and laboratories. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for isopropyl alcohol provides critical information on its safe handling, use, storage, and disposal. Here are 12 key facts from the SDS that are essential for ensuring safety when working with isopropyl alcohol.
Introduction to Isopropyl Alcohol SDS
The SDS for isopropyl alcohol is a comprehensive document that outlines the physical and chemical properties of the substance, its hazards, and the necessary precautions for safe handling. It is crucial for employers, workers, and emergency responders to be familiar with the contents of the SDS to minimize the risks associated with isopropyl alcohol.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Isopropyl alcohol has a molecular formula of C3H8O and a molecular weight of 60.1 g/mol. It has a boiling point of 82.5°C and a melting point of -89.5°C. Isopropyl alcohol is highly flammable, with a flash point of 12°C and an autoignition temperature of 399°C. Understanding these physical and chemical properties is vital for handling and storing isopropyl alcohol safely.
The following table summarizes some key physical and chemical properties of isopropyl alcohol:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | 82.5°C |
| Melting Point | -89.5°C |
| Flash Point | 12°C |
| Autoignition Temperature | 399°C |
Hazards Identification
Isopropyl alcohol is classified as a flammable liquid and vapor, and it can cause serious health effects if not handled properly. The SDS identifies the following hazards:
- Flammable liquid and vapor
- Irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory system
- May cause drowsiness or dizziness
- May cause central nervous system depression
It is crucial to follow the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety precautions when handling isopropyl alcohol to minimize exposure and prevent adverse health effects.
First Aid Measures
In case of exposure to isopropyl alcohol, the following first aid measures should be taken:
- Eye contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes
- Skin contact: Wash skin with soap and water
- Inhalation: Move person to fresh air
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention immediately
It is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen after exposure to isopropyl alcohol.
Fire-Fighting Measures
Isopropyl alcohol is highly flammable, and fires involving this substance can be hazardous. The following fire-fighting measures should be taken:
Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or foam to extinguish fires involving isopropyl alcohol. Water may be ineffective in extinguishing fires, and it may cause the fire to spread. Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and protective clothing to prevent exposure to toxic fumes and vapors.
Accidental Release Measures
In case of an accidental release of isopropyl alcohol, the following measures should be taken:
- Evacuate the area immediately
- Wear PPE, including gloves, safety glasses, and a face shield
- Contain the spill using absorbent materials, such as sand or vermiculite
- Dispose of the spill materials according to local regulations
It is essential to follow proper procedures for cleaning up spills and disposing of hazardous waste to prevent environmental contamination and minimize health risks.
Handling and Storage
To ensure safe handling and storage of isopropyl alcohol, the following precautions should be taken:
Store isopropyl alcohol in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames. Use proper containers, such as glass or metal, and ensure they are tightly sealed. Handle isopropyl alcohol with care, avoiding skin contact and inhalation of vapors.
Disposal Considerations
Isopropyl alcohol and its containers should be disposed of according to local regulations and guidelines. The following disposal considerations should be taken into account:
Dispose of isopropyl alcohol and its containers through a licensed hazardous waste disposal facility. Do not dispose of isopropyl alcohol in sewers, waterways, or soil. Ensure that all containers are properly labeled and sealed to prevent leakage and contamination.
Regulatory Information
Isopropyl alcohol is regulated by various agencies, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The following regulatory information is relevant to isopropyl alcohol:
OSHA: Permissible exposure limit (PEL) for isopropyl alcohol is 400 ppm (1000 mg/m3) as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA)
EPA: Isopropyl alcohol is listed as a toxic substance under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)
NIOSH: Recommended exposure limit (REL) for isopropyl alcohol is 400 ppm (1000 mg/m3) as an 8-hour TWA
It is essential to comply with all relevant regulations and guidelines when handling, storing, and disposing of isopropyl alcohol to minimize health risks and environmental contamination.
What are the hazards associated with isopropyl alcohol?
+Isopropyl alcohol is a flammable liquid and vapor, and it can cause serious health effects, including irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory system, drowsiness or dizziness, and central nervous system depression.
What are the first aid measures for exposure to isopropyl alcohol?
+In case of exposure to isopropyl alcohol, the following first aid measures should be taken: eye contact - flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes, skin contact - wash skin with soap and water, inhalation - move person to fresh air, ingestion - do not induce vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.
How should isopropyl alcohol be stored and handled?
+Isopropyl alcohol should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames. Use proper containers, such as glass or metal, and ensure they are tightly sealed. Handle isopropyl alcohol with care, avoiding skin contact and inhalation of vapors.
