Document gD9YNXaJGEjKVr2je2XeKXd8e

<o Chemical Safety Data Sheet SD-14 PROPERTIES AND ESSENTIAL INFORMATION FOR SAFE HANDLING AND USE OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE Chemicols in any form can be sofely stored, hondied or used if the physical, chemical and hazardous properties are fully under stood and the necessary precautions, including the use of proper safeguards and personal protective equipment, are observed- ADOPTED 1947 FIRST REVISION 1948 SECOND REVISION 1956 MANUFACTURING CHEMISTS ASSOCIATION JB25 CONNECTICUT AVENUE. N. W. WASHINGTON, D. C. 20009 SC 035378 Rmci TABLE OF CONTENTS PREFACE .............................................................................. 1. NAMES ................................................................................. 2. PROPERTIES ....................................................................... 2.1 Grades ........................................................... 2.2 Properties and Characteristics ............................... 3. HAZARDS ......................................................................... 3.1 Heallh Hazards ........................................................ 3.2 Fire Hazard .............................................................. 4. ENGINEERING CONTROL OF HAZARDS ........................ 4.1 Building Design ..................................................... 4.2 Equipment Design ................................................... 4.3 Ventilation .............................................................. 4.4 Air Analysis ............................................................ 5. EMPLOYEE SAFETY .......................................................... 5.1 Employee Education and Training........................ 5.2 Personal Protective Equipment ............................ 6. FIRE FIGHTING ................................................................... 7. HANDLING AND STORAGE ............................................ 7.1 Usual Shipping Containers ................................... 7.2 Drums .......................... ............................................. 7.3 Tank Cars ........... ..................................................... 7.4 Tank Trucks .............................................................. 7.5 Storage ... ..................................................... 7.6 Spills and Leakage ............................................. 7.7 Repackaging and Blending ................................. 8. TANK AND EQUIPMENT CLEANING AND REPAIRS.... 8.1 Preparation of Tanks and Equipment................. 8.2 Entering Tank .......................................................... 8.3 Emergency Rescue ............................................ 8.4 Exterior Repair Work ............................................ 9. WASTE DISPOSAL ........................................................... 10. MEDICAL MANAGEMENT............................................. 10.1 Health Hazards i ............................. 10.2 Preventive Health Measures . ........... 11. FIRST AID ............................................. 11.1 General Principles ..................... ............... 11.2 Specific Actions............................ ............ PAGE .... 4 .... 5 .... 5 .... 5 .... 5 .... 6 .... 6 .... 6 .... 6 .... 6 .... 6 .... 6 .... 7 .... 7 .... 7 .... 7 .... 9 ... 9 .... 9 .... 9 ....10 ...10 ....11 ...11 ....11 ...12 ....12 ...12 ....13 ...13 ...13 . .13 ... 13 14 . 15 . .15 ... 15 SL 035379 tB Chemical Safety Data Sheet TRICHLOROETHYLENE PREFACE Trichloroethylene may be harmful by inhalation, by prolonged or repeated contact with the skin or mucous membranes, or when taken by mouth. The Interstate Commerce Commission does not classify it as .a dangerous article requiring special packaging but the Manufacturing Chemists' Association recommends the use of a warning label on containers. Suggestions for the safe handling of trichloroethylene are given in the body of the data sheet. FIRST AID-SEE PAGE 15 For assistance in the event of any emergency involving this chemical in transportation, call MCA's Chemical Transportation Emergency Center. CHEMTREC (800) 424-9300* (Use 483-7616 in District of Columbia! Toll-free, day or night * Use long dtitonco access number if required. In CANADA, call Canadian Chemical Producers Association's TEAP (Transportation Emergency Assistance Plan) -I SL 035380 Chemical Safety Data Sheet Mongol Sh| &D-M TRICHLOROETHYLENE Adopted 1947 Revised 1948 Revised 1956 1. NAMES Chemical Name: Common Names: Formula: Trichloroethylene Trichlorethylene, Ethylene Trichloride CHC1.CC1, 2. PROPERTIES 2.1 GRADES Technical or Dry Cleaning, Degreasing and Extraction 2.2 PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERISTICS Physical State ___ ____ ___ ___ Liquid Explosive Limits.............. ..... ...Not llammable or explosive at ordinary room temperatures but moderately flammable at higher temperatures. Flash Point ......................... ..... Practically nonflammable. Boiling Point (760 mm.).... ..... 87.0C. (188F.) Lange. Color........... ................ ............... ..Clear and colorless unless marked with an identifying dye, e.g., degreasing grade. Corrosivity..--........................... Stabilized trichloroethylene may be used in the presence of air, water and light with any of the common construction metals at temperatures up to 120C. (248nF.). Hygroscopic. . ............. ...No, Ignition Temperature............... 410C. (770^.). Light Sensitivity...................... See "Corrosivity" above. Melting Point.............................--73C. (--99F.) Lange, Odor ................ ................. . Somewhat similar to odor of chloroform. Reactivity......................... .......... Not dangerously reactive except that strong alkalies, such as Solubility in Water Specific Gravity at 20/4 'C, caustic soda, may react with trichloroethylene to form explo sive mixtures (dichloracetylene). Weaker alkalies, such as trisodium phosphate, may be used with safety. 0.1 grams per 100 ml. (68/39F.) (Water - -1). . .. 1.4G4 Vapor Density (Air~l) 4.54 Threshold Limit VAPOR PRESSURE OF TRICHLOROETHYLENE Temperature _C;'F Vapor Pressure, mm. Mercury 0 32 10 50 20 08 30.5 87 40 104 50 122 00 140 86.9 188 19.9 35.7 57.K 93.7 146.8 212 305.7 760 100 ppm or 520 Mg/M\ SL 035381 Manual Sheet SD-14 Manufacturing Chemists' Association, Inc. Trichloroethylene 3. HAZARDS 3.1 HEALTH HAZARDS (See 10.) Trichloroethylene may be harmful by inhala tion, by prolonged or repeated contact with the .skin or mucous membranes, or when taken by mouth. However, if proper precautions are con stantly observed, this compound can be handled with safety. 3.2 FIRE HAZARD 3.2.1 The fire hazard is very small, trichloro ethylene being classified by the Underwriters' Laboratories as nonflammable at ordinary tem peratures, and only slightly flammable at higher temperatures. The fire hazard is rated 3, as determined by the U.L. Standard for Classification, in which ethyl ether rates 100, ethyl alcohol (JO-70, and paraffin oil 10-20. in practical applications, such as cleaning fluids and vapor degreasing, the 'formation of combustible mixtures is extremely unlikely. 3.2.2 At very high temperatures, such as occur in open flames, trichloroethylene may de compose to give hydrochloric acid and other toxic products. 4. ENGINEERING CONTROL OF HAZARDS 4.1 BUILDING DESIGN input and cooling capacity of condensing coils, which establish a "vapor ceiling." Such vapor Processes should not be located near open degreasing units should always be installed in flames, open electric heaters or high tempera locations free from draft conditions. ture operations, since trichloroethylene vapor exposed to such high temperatures may be de composed to toxic and corrosive substances (See 3.2.2). 4.2.1.2 Partially closed equipment has been designed for the use of trichloroethylene in the dry cleaning industry. Such equipment, however, exhausts the greater part of the sol 4.2 EQUIPMENT DESIGN vent vapor to the outside atmosphere, thereby minimizing exposure of the worker. Proper de sign of the machine ensures against seepage of i Processes should be designed so that the "op solvent liquid and vapor during the cleaning op erator is not exposed to direct contact with tri eration. Partially closed systems are likewise chloroethylene or its vapor. The technical prob adapted to metal degreasing operations in some lems of designing equipment, providing ade conveyorized vapor units. quate ventilation and formulating operational I procedures which promise maximum security and economy, can be handled best by engineers 4.2.1.3 Extraction equipment designed for trichloroethylene is an example of a closed and safety specialists. Manufacturers .of tri system design. chloroethylene, and of the equipment in which it is to be used, are always prepared to help with 4.3 VENTILATION these problems, and to assist in maintaining safe working conditions. In most States, au thoritative advice and assistance may also be obtained from the industrial hygiene division of the State health department, or from the labor department. 4.3.1 General ventilation should be adequate for processes conducted in closed or partially closed equipment, but mechanical exhaust ven tilation, preferably of the downdraft type, may be provided for dean-out and other special op . 4.2.1 System Types erations. Open top vapor degreasers, however, should be provided with suitable baffles and Depending upon the application, trichloro otherwise, protected from drafts to avoid en ethylene may be used in any one of the three trainment, of trichloroethylene vapors. Where systems described below: equipment, is located in pits or depressions, sep 4.2.1.1 For the vapor degreasing of met als, equipment manufacturers have designed arate mechanical exhaust ventilation should be installed at the lowest level. special open type machines in which the solvent 4.3.2 Intakes to exhaust ventilating systems liquid and vapor are controlled by balanced heat should be as close as possible to the point where G SL 035382 mmmmm ) i \ i i ) t i. ) J ii )i'' Trichloroethylene Manufacturing Clu'niists' Association, Inc. Monvtot Sh#t SD-M the vapor escapes or to the source of contam ination and designed to draw the vapor away from the operator but not across his face. 4.4 AIK ANALYSIS 4.4.1 The maximum allowable concentration (threshold limit) is 200 ppm. by volume in air for an eight hour working day. 4.4.2 When checking concent rat ions of tri chloroethylene vapor in the atmosphere, care is required to make certain that the sample is representative of the air breathed by the work ers, and of the daily fluctuations which may occur. 4.4.3 Continuous recording instruments, ar ranged to give audible and visible signals when a predetermined concentration of trichloroethy lene vapor in air is reached, are available. 4.4.4 Testing methods are described in the following references: Flame Test Method, UkIiie the Ilalide Torch: V. A. Stenger et al., Ind. Eng. Chem., Anal. Ed., 11:121 (1939) F. H. Goldman, J. Ind. Hyg. & Toxicol., g.5:181 (19-13) Thermal Decomposition Method: J. C. Olsen et al., Ind. Eng. Chem., Anal. Ed., 3:2G0 (1930) 11. F. SmyLh, Ind. Eng. Chem., Anal. Ed,, A':379 (iliac.) II. Eilons et al., J. Ind. Hyg. & Toxicol., 19:474 (1937) B. D. Tebbens, J. Ind. Hyg. & Toxicol., 1.9:204 (1937) W. F. von OeUiiigcn, J. 1ml. Hyg. Si Toxicol., Hi:413 (1937) Vapor Pressure Method: C. Coin-liman et id., J. Ind. Hyg. Si Toxicol., 21:2!><i (1939) K. Kav et ul., J. Ind. Hyg. & Toxicol,, 21:2(14 (1939) I,. Silverman rl al., J. Ind. Ilyg. A Toxicok, 21:270 (1939) Gas Interferometer Method: F, A. Patty, J. Ind. Hyg. & Toxicol., 21:409 (1939) G, llarrold et al,, J. Ind. Hyg. & Toxicol., 97:491 (1939) Adsorption Method: W. Cool, el al., J, Ind. Hyg, Si Toxicol., 73:191 (193G) L. Cialley et al., J. Ind. Hyg. Si Toxicol,, 95:172 (1943) Photometric Method: V. F. Hanson, Ind. Eng. Chem., Anal. Ed., 1.1:119 (1941) Colorimetric Method: H, M. Barrett, J. Ind, Hyg. Si Toxicol., 13:341 (1936) See also American Standards Association, "Allowable Concentration of Trichloroethy lene", Approved Aug. 6, 1946, Z37.19--1946. (200 ppm). 5. EMPLOYEE SAFETY 5.1 EMPLOYEE EDUCATION AND TRAIN ING Safety in handling trichloroethylene depends, to a great extent, upon the effectiveness of em ployee education, proper safety instructions, intelligent supervision and the use of safe equip ment. The education and training of employees to work safely and to use the personal protective equipment or other safeguards provided for them is the responsibility of supervision. Train ing classes for both now and old employees should lie conducted periodically to maintain a high degree of safety handling procedures. Workers should be thoroughly informed of the hazards that may result from improper han dling of trichloroethylene. They should lie cau tioned to prevent spills and thoroughly in structed regarding proper action to take in case they occur. Each employee should know what to do in an emergency and should be fully informed as to first aid measures. In addition to the above, employee education and training should include the following: (a) Instruction and periodic drill or quiz re garding the locations of safety showers, eye baths, bubbler drinking fountains, or the closest source of water for use in emergencies. (b) Instructions to avoid all unnecessary in halation of vapors of trichloroethylene and all direct contact with the liquid. (c) Instructions to report to the proper au thority all equipment failures and/or signs of illness. 6.2 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT 5.2.1 Availability and Use While personal protective equipment is not an adequate substitute for good, safe working conditions, adequate ventilation, and intelligent conduct on the part of employees working with trichloroethylene, it is. in many instances, the only practical means of protecting the worker, SL 035383, Manual SU**I SD-U Manuludui mg Lltcimsis Association, Inc. I richloroethylcna particularly in emergency situations. One should keep firmly in mind that personal pro tective equipment protects only the worker wearing it, and other unprotected workers in the area may be exposed to danger. The correct usage of personal protective equipment requires the education of the worker in proper employment of the equipment avail able to him. Under conditions which are suffi ciently hazardous to require personal protective equipment, its use should be supervised and the type of protective equipment selected should be capable of control over any potential hazard. The following personal protective equip ment should be used when indicated. 5.2.2 Eye Protection Chemical Safety Goggles: Cup-tvpe or rub ber framed goggles, equipped with the approved impact resistant glass or plastic lenses, should be worn whenever there is danger of trichloro ethylene coming in contact with the eyes. Goggles should be carefully fitted by adjusting the nose piece -and head band to ensure maxi mum protection and comfort. Spectacle-Type Safety Goggles: Metal or plastic rim safety spectacles with imperforated side shields which can be obtained with pre scription safety lenses or suitable all plastic safety goggles may be used where continuous eye protection is desirable, as in laboratories. These types, however, should not bo used where complete eye protection against trichloroethy lene is needed. Face Shields: Plastic shields (full length, eight inch minimum) with forehead protection may be worn in addition to chemical safety goggles where complete face protection is de sirable. Chemical safety goggles should always be worn as added protection where there is danger of material striking the eyes from un derneath or around the sides of the face shield. 5.2.3 Respiratory Protection Severe exposure to trichloroethylene may occur in tanks during equipment cleaning and repairs, when decontaminating areas following spills, or in case of failure of piping or equip ment. Employees who may lie subject to such exposures should be provided with proper re spiratory protection as described below. Note: Respiratory protective equipment must be carefully maintained, inspected, cleaned and sterilized at regular intervals, and always before use by another person. (a) Self-contained Breathing Apparatus which permits the wearer to carry a supply of oxygen or air compressed in the cylinder, and the self-generating type which produces oxygen chemically, allow for greater mobility. The length of time a self-contained breathing apparatus provides protection varies according to the amount of air or oxygen supply carried. No cylinder (or compressed) oxygen should be used in tanks or other confined spaces. (b) Positive Pressure Hose Masks sup plied by externally lubricated blowers. Since these masks depend on a remote air supply, they should be used only where conditions will per mit safe escape in the event of air supply fail ure. Care must be taken to locate the blower air source in an area which is free of air con taminants. (c) Air-line Masks supplied by plant com pressed air are suitable for use only where con ditions will permit safe escape in case of failure of the compressed air supply. Such masks should be used only in conjunction with a suit able reducing or demand-type valve, excess pressure relief valve, and filter. The compressed air should be checked frequently to make cer tain that harmful gases from the decomposition of the lubricating oil used in the compressor, or impure air supply, arc not present. (d) Industrial Canister Type Gas Masks, equipped with full face pieces and approved by the U.S. Rureau of Mines, fitted with the proper canister for absorbing trichloroethylene vapor, will afford protection against concentrations of trichloroethylene not exceeding 2 per cent by volume when used in accordance with the man ufacturer's instructions. The oxygen content of the air must not be less than 16 per cent by volume. The masks should be used for relatively short exposure periods only. They may not be suitable for use in an emergency since, at that time, the actual vapor concentration is unknown and it may be very high. The wearer must be warned to leave the contaminated area imme diately on detecting the odor of a harmful vapor; Ibis is an indication tbal the mask is not I'uiuTioning properly or that the vapor con centration is too high. Note: Where carbon monoxide may be en countered in addition to trichloroethylene, the mask should be equipped with an "all purpose canister" and a "timing device" as approved by the U.S. Bureau of Mines. S Trichloroethylene Manufocluni);) Chemists' Association, Inc. Manual 5h*t SD-W 5.2.4 Head Protection "Hard" hats should be worn where there is danger from falling objects. If hard hats are not considered necessary, soft-brimmed hats or caps may be worn to give protection against liquid leaks and splashes. 5.2.5 Foot Protection NOTE: Trichloroethylene attacks natural rubber. Safety shoes with built-in steel toe caps, and made of leather or some suitable impervious material such as Neoprene, are recommended for workers handling containers of trichloro ethylene. Overshoes of a similar suitable ma terial may lie worn over leather safety shoes. Footwear should be thoroughly cleaned and ven tilated after contamination. 5.2.6 liody, Skin and Hand Protection Sustained or intermittent skin contact with liquid trichloroethylene may produce dermatitis at the site of contact. It is imperative that con taminated clothing be removed promptly and laundered or thoroughly dried before re-use. Affected areas of the body should be washed thoroughly with soap and water (except the eyes). As a general hygienic measure, facilities for personal cleanliness should be provided and washing before lunch and at the end of the work day should be encouraged. Clothing made of neoprene or other im pervious material may be worn to protect the body against trichloroethylene splashes. These garments must be cleaned inside and out each time they are used. 6. FIRE FIGHTING As stated in Section 3.2, fires involving .trichloroethylene are unlikely, but if they do oc- cur, they may be controlled by carbon dioxide, dry chemical or foam. 7. HANDLING AND STORAGE 7.1 USUAL SHIPPING CONTAINERS Trichloroethylene is not regulated by the In terstate Commerce Commission. 7.1.2 Type and Size Tank cars: ICC 103, up to 10,000 gallons capacity. Tank trucks: ICC Specifications MC 300, MC 301, MC 302, MC 303 or MC 304. Metal drums: ICC Specifications 17E, or CFG Rule 40, Section 5C, 55 gallon maximum. 7.1.3 Labeling and IdenUlicaliou 7.1.3.1 Each container should carry an identifying label or stencil. 7.1.3.2 The Manufacturing Chemists' As sociation recommends that all containers of trichloroethylene should bear a label as shown on p. 10 in addition to, or in combination with any label, warning or other statement required by statutes, regulations or ordinances. 7.2 DRUMS 7.2.1 Drums should be unloaded carefully to prevent damage. Do not-drop or bump. 7.2.2 Each shipment should be examined carefully for leaking drums. If any are found, they should be handled with particular care bv turning leak up to prevent further leakage, and should be removed to a safe place where the leakage can be stopped by tightening the plug or by some other approved method. 7.2.3 Refore emptying contents, substan tially support, the drums and block them to prevent movement. 7.2.4 A satisfactory method of removing trichloroethylene from drums is by means of a rotary pump. If emptied by gravity, the drum should be placed on a rack and a faucet inserted in the end bung. Faucets should have 0 SI 35385 Monuot Sh##t SB-M Manufacturing Chemists' Association, Inc, Trichloroethylene TRICHLOROETHYLENE WARNING! VAPOR HARMFUL Use only with adequate ventilation. Avoid prolonged or repeated breathing of vapor. Avoid prolonged or repeated contact with skin. Do not take internally. MCA Chemical Safety Data $h*t availably. short shanks threaded with Briggs standard straight iron pipe threads and preferably self closing. A resilient gasket of suitable material should be used to ensure a tight lit. Bung open ing and faucet must have the same type and number of threads per inch (MCA Manual Sheet D-32). Protect workmen from vapor and liquid (See 5.2). 7.2.5 To remove the body plug, place bung up, and use a bung or plug wrench. Stand to one side and face away during the operation. After the plug starts, give one full turn. If accumulated internal pressure vents, allow it to reduce to atmospheric pressure; then only should the plug be loosened further or removed. 7.2.0 Before returning shipping containers to suppliers, observe usual precautions regard ing complete drainage of contents and properly close all openings. 7.3 TANK CARS 7.3.1 Unloading 7.3.1.1 Unloading operations should be conducted by carefully instructed, reliable em ployees under adequate supervision (See 5.1). 7.3.1.2 Shipper's instructions should al ways be followed and all caution markings on both sides of tank and dome should be read and observed. 7.3.1.3 The train or engine crew should accurately spot the car at the unloading line. The unloading track should be level. 7.3.1.4 Car number should be compared with that on shipping papers or invoice to veri fy contents of car and avoid mixing of prod ucts. 7.3.1.5 It is considered good practice that derails he placed at the open end or ends of the unloading track approximately one car-length from the car being unloaded, unless the car is protected by a closed and locked switch or gate. 7.3.1.6 The hand-brake should be set and standard rail clamps should be installed to block the wheels at the time of unloading. Metal "CAUTION" signs should be fastened to the track. Signs should he 12" x 15", painted light blue. Use the legend "STOP TANK CAR CON NECTED", with the letters in "STOP" four inches high. Signs are available from safety equipment dealers. 7.3.1.7 Tank cars should be unloaded through the dome connection, preferably by pump. 7.3.1.3 If necessary to discontinue unload ing a tank car for any reason, all unloading connections must be disconnected. All valves must first bo tightly closed, and the closures of all other openings securely applied. 7.3.2 Return Precautions 7.3.2.1 As soon as the tank car is com pletely unloaded all valves must he made tight, the unloading connections removed, and all other closures made tight, except the heater coil connection and steam connections. 7.3.2.2 Empty lank cars should bo re turned as promptly as possible, in accordance with instructions received from the shipper. The shipper's muting' instructions should al ways be strictly followed. 7.4 TANK TRUCKS 7.4,1 Ordinarily all operations concerning the tank truck and its appurtenances (fittings, 10 035386 SL )0 )0 )0 Trichloroethylene Manufacturing Chemists' Association, Inc. Monual Shet SD*M pumps, hose, etc.) are the responsibility of the driver. Therefore unloading operations should be carried out by reliable and properly in structed employees in cooperation with the driver. 7.4.2 The shipper should be consulted for details on proper unloading procedure. 7.4.3 Before unloading a truck, the engine should be stopped and not started again dur ing the entire unloading operation unless it is necessary to operate the pump by power take off. 7.4.5 Truck brakes should be set and, if necessary, the wheels blocked. 7.4.6 It is preferable that truck unloading facilities be level and paved and so located that the truck can be easily and safely maneuvered to the unloading spot. 7.4.7 Air pressure should never be used for unloading tank trucks. 7.5 STORAGE 7.5.1 Corrosion Under normal conditions, trichloroethylene may be stored satisfactorily in galvanized iron, black iron, or steel equipment. Aluminum is un affected by trichloroethylene but is not gen erally recommended for storage equipment be cause of its possible use for some of the other more active chlorohydrocurbons which may re act explosively with aluminum under certain conditions. 7.5.2 Drums 7.5.2.1 Drums of trichloroethylene should be stored in a cool place, bung up. To prevent evaporation losses, bungs should be kept tight at all times. 7.5.2.2 Ventilation should be provided at the floor level, as well as in the usual higher locations. Note that vapor is 4.54 times heavier than air (See 2.2). Do not store in pits, de pressions, basements, or unventilated areas. 7.5.3 Tanks 7.5.3.1 Each tank, either vertical or hori zontal, should have a top and bottom manhole at least 22 inches in diameter, in addition to filling, vent, and measuring device openings, which should be 2 inch (lunged connections in the top of the tank. A 2 inch or 2'A inch bot tom outlet should be provided for use as a drain during clean-out operations. Vertical tanks should be of the closed top design, and the top should be caulked or welded vapor-tight. 7.5.3.2 Each storage tank should have a vent of diameter at least equal to that of the fill pipe or discharge pipe, whichever is the larger, to permit the escape of vapor during filling. Vents from indoor tanks should termi nate outdoors, in such a location that escaping vapor will not contaminate any work space air. The vent is usually protected against entry of moist air by being extended down over the side of the tank into a chamber filled with lump calcium chloride for removal of moisture in Ihe air. It is recommended that a tee be provided in this line above the dryer so that a mercury seal i/j inch deep can be installed as a safety vent in case the dryer plugs from excess mois ture. Do not allow mercury,to be spilled in any work space. Avoid open mercury surfaces in work spaces. 7.6 SPILLS AND LEAKAGE 7.6.1 Spills should be cleaned up immediate ly. Employees performing this work should wear adequate personal protective equipment (See 5.2). 7.6.2 Rags or mops wet with trichloroethy lene should be placed in closed containers or in a safe place out of doors until they can be dried safely. 7.6.3 Clothing wet with trichloroethylene should be removed immediately. The clothing should not bo used again until dry and free of the odor of trichloroethylene. Dry clothing out of doors or in a properly ventilated area. 7.7 REPACKAGING AND BLENDING 7.7.1 Repackaging should be done with ade quate attention to the health hazards involved (See 10.). 7.7.2 A label on small containers may be re quired by State statutes, regulations, or ordi nances (See 7.1.3). 7.7.3 Trichloroethylene may be added to flammable solvents to form less flammable or relatively nonflammable mixtures. It should be noted, however, if the flammable solvent is less volatile than trichloroethylene, the mixture will tend to become more and more flammable on'evaporation. 7.7.4 When trichloroethylene is added to oilier sol vents, the health hazard of each of the constituents of the mixture must lie given care ful consideration. 7.7.5 The addition of other products to tri chloroethylene may affect its corrosive proper ties. 11 SL 035387' Manual Sheat SD-14 Manufacturing Chemists' Association, Inc. Trichloroethylene 8. TANK AND EQUIPMENT CLEANING AND REPAIRS (HAZARDS AND THEIR CONTROL) This work is probably the most hazardous of all operations which involve the use or han dling of trichloroethylene in industry. All pre cautions pertaining to education, protective equipment and health hazards should be re viewed and understood. ;U IMtKI'AUATlON OF TANKS AND FQUIl'M ENT 8.1.1 Tank and equipment, cleaning should be under the direction of thoroughly trained personnel who are fully familiar with all of the hazards and the safeguards necessary for the safe performance of the work. 8.1.2 Tanks and equipment, pumps, lines and valves should always be drained and thor oughly Hushed with water before being re paired. Workmen should never be allowed to attempt to repair equipment while it is in op eration and the lines full. If pipe sections are to be removed and Manges opened, the lower bolls should be loosened first and although the lines have been Hushed, care should be taken to avoid personal contact with the liquid drain ing, or dripping from the equipment. All spill' age from the lines or equipment should be re moved immediately. 8.1.3- The tank or equipment to be repaired should first be emptied of all liquid, and all pipes leading to and from the tank (except vents) after draining should be disconnected or blanked off. Agitator motor line switches should be locked open. 8.1.4 The tank should be steamed to remove residual Irichloroethylene and vapors. Steam lines should be large enough to raise the tank temperature above the boiling point of trichlo roethylene (87 C.) and the steaming should be continued until the trichloroethylene vapors have been removed. 8.1.5 The tank should then be cooled, pref erably by tilling with water and draining once or twice, Noth: The volatilized trichloroethylene in the steam diluent should be controlled so as to avoid contaminating the air in the work area in excess of safe limits (See 4.3), 8.1.(1 The tank should then be purged with fresh air and the air should be tested for tri chloroethylene vapor and for oxygen content before permitting personnel to enter (See 4.4). 8.2 ENTERING TANK 8.2.1 No one should enter a tank or con fined space until a work permit has been signed, by an authorized person indicating that the area has been tested and found to be safe. Further more, no workman should enter a tank or vessel that does not have a manhole opening large enough to admit a person wearing a safety harness, life line, and emergency respiratory equipment. It should be ascertained that the tank or vessel can be left by the original en trance. 8.2.2 One man on the outside of the tank should keep the men in the tank under obser vation ami another man should be available nearby to aid in rescue if any of the men in the tank are overcome (See 8.3). 8.2.3 A supplied air respirator or self-con tained breathing apparatus, together with res cue harness and life line should always be lo cated outside the tank entrance for rescue purposes, regardless of the type of respiratory equipment or air supply which is provided for employees inside the tank (See 8.3). 8.2.4 Special ventilation is recommended during the entire time men are cleaning, repair ing, or inspecting the tank. Ventilation can be accomplished by exhausting or removing vapors from the bottom of the tank either through its bottom openings, or by exhausting the vapors from the tank bottom by means of a large llexible duct where tanks have a top opening only. On tanks having only a top opening, care must be exercised to ensure complete removal of vapors from the entire tank. Care must also be taken to avoid having exhaust gases recycled into the tank. 8.2.5 During the course of the work, fre quent tests (See 4.4) should be made to deter mine that the atmosphere in the tank is being maintained within the safe range. 'Phis pre caution is necessary because residues not com pletely removed by washing may recoutamiuate the tank atmosphere. 8.2.1! In all cases, if repair work is inter rupted, the tank atmosphere should be checked thoroughly and a new work permit issued be fore resumption of work. 12 Trichloroethylene Manufacturing Chemists' Association, Inc. Manual Shoot SD-M 8.3 EMERGENCY RESCUE Under no circumstances should ;i rescuer en ter a tank to remove a victim of over-exposure without proper respiratory protection, a safety harness and an attached life line. The free end of the life line should be manned by an attend ant located outside the tank. Another attendant should be immediately available to assist in the rescue if needed. The rescuer should be in view of the outside attendant at all times or in con stant communication with him. ' 8.4 EXTERIOR REPAIR WORK 8.4.1 Exterior tank repairs, including re- pairs to steam coils, cutting, riveting and weld ing, should be permitted only after thorough cleaning and testing of the tank to make sure it is free of vapors and after a work permit has been issued by an authorized person. 8.4.2 All outside welding or burning on tanks or equipment which have contained tri chloroethylene should be done only after such containers have been completely purged with steam. Purging should be continued while the repair work is in progress. 8.4.3 In all cases, if repair work is inter rupted, the tank atmosphere should be checked thoroughly and a new work permit issued be fore resumption of work. 9. WASTE Dl S P O S A L 9.1 Waste disposal of trichloroethylene de pends to a great extent upon local conditions. Be sure that all Federal, State and local regu lations regarding health and pollution are fol lowed. The supplier will be able to furnish good advice on this matter. 9.2 Residue may be poured on dry sand, earth, or ashes at a safe distance from occupied areas and allowed to evaporate into the atmosphere. 10. MEDICAL IANAGEMENT 10.1 HEALTH HAZARDS 10.1.1 Trichloroethylene may be harmful by inhalation, by contact with skin or mucous membranes, or when taken by mouth. However, if proper precautions are constantly observed, this compound may be handled with safety. Prolonged, excessive, or repeated exposures to the liquid, or to atmospheric concentrations of the vapor above those recommended below are hazardous. 10.1.2 The signs and symptoms of too great exposure to trichloroethylene are the result of action upon the central nervous system, or irri tation of the skin, or the respiratory tract. In contrast to chloroform and carbon tetrachloride, injuries to the liver and kidneys are rare, if indeed they ever occur from industrial expo sure. 10.1.3 Trichloroethylene is essentially an anesthetic. When inhaled or when taken by mouth, the clinical picture may range from slight irritation of the mucous membranes through all stages of the production of anes thesia. The stage reached depends upon the con centration inhaled, or the quantity swallowed. 10.1.4 The generally accepted Maximum Al lowable Concentration of trichloroethylene in the air is 200 ppm. by volume for an 8-hour day. When exposed to higher concentrations, work- ers may complain of tears and burning of the eyes and irritation of the nose and throat. They may, also, experience nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, acquire an attitude of irresponsibil ity ami behave in a manner resembling any stage of alcoholic intoxication. 10.1.4.1 Acittr Poisoning When a worker inhales an excessive amount of trichloroethylene vapor within a short period of time, the symptoms are essen tially those of production of anesthesia. There may be, at first, irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, then dizziness, nausea, vomiting and gradual suppression of consciousness. The pic ture which develops depends upon the concen tration inhaled and the duration of inhalation. If the concentration is high and inhalation pro longed, there will eventually be complete sup pression of pain sense and almost complete loss of muscular activity. After a period of very rapid breathing, the respiration and circulation may fall and deatli follow. High concentrations of trichloroethylene may prevent proper utili zation of the oxygen of the blood by the tissues. When this condition is present, physical activity may lead to severe or even fatal circulatory failure. Some conditions under which acute poi soning may occur are as follows: 13 Manuol Sho( SO-14 Manufacturing Chcn'ists' Association, Inc T r'lchlorocthylcno (a) liy accident, .such as equipment failure, (b) When workers enter enclosures or tanks without having taken adequate precau tions (See 8), (c) When trichloroethylene is handled carelessly (Sec 5.1). 10.1.4,2 Subacute Poisoning Subacute trichloroethylene poisoning may result from prolonged or repeated work in an atmosphere containing high concentrations of trichloroethylene but under conditions in which the amount absorbed is not sufficient to cause loss of consciousness. Workers with subacute poisoning may become acutely ill and suffer from headaches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, mental confusion and visual disturbances. There may be nerve paralysis affecting nerves to the face or to the extremities. These are part of the development of anesthesia. In some cases, after repeated exposure, a craving seems to develop so that the worker seeks further exposure and becomes an addict. In others, there may be definite ac tion on the heart muscle producing irregular beats of the heart or rapid but inefficient con traction of the heart chambers. In rare cases, this has caused death. Some of the conditions under which sub acute poisoning might occur in employees are as follows: (a) When the ventilation is inadequate, resulting in high concentrations of trichloro ethylene, (b) When vapor concentrations are high intermittently, due to faulty handling of the liquid, (c) Failure of the individual to observe precautionary measures, (d) When an acute exposure of high concentration is superimposed upon prolonged exposure to mild concentrations, circulatory failure can occur. 10.1.5Toxic Effects from External Contact 10.1.5.1 Skin Trichloroethylene may cause dermatitis after repealed or prolonged contact with the skin, as occurs in prolonged or repealed han dling of rags wet with the chemical product, dipping the hand into the liquid and wearing clothing saturated with it. Frequent contact of the solvent with tiie skin dries it by removal of the skin oils and makes it rough and red and subject to cracking. This can lead to sec ondary infection. If trichloroethylene, or its vapors are trapped between the clothing and the skin, there may he particularly severe ac tion. Reddening, burning and blisters may fol low such exposure. 10.1.5.2 Eyes Trichloroethylene may enter the eyes either as a vapor or as a liquid (spray or splash). The irritation may cause lachrymation, burning and other symptoms. If the eyes are not promptly washed, serious eye damage may occur. 10.1,6 Toxic Effects After Oral Intake The initial symptoms after toxic amounts of trichloroethylene are taken by mouth are those of irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, such as nausea and vomiting and,-perhaps, diar rhea. Then, may follow ail the stages of pro duction of anesthesia with the same symptoma tology as is produced by inhalation of the com pound. In addition, when trichloroethylene is swallowed, kidney function may be completely suppressed. 10.2 PREVENTIVE HEALTH MEASURES The most important factor in prevention of injury by trichloroethylene is to have sullicient ventiiation to keep the concentration of the vapor in the air below 200 ppm. by volume. The odor of trichloroethylene is distinct and most people can notice it at concentrations of the order of 50 ppm. 10.2.1 Personal Hygiene Employees should be instructed to report any signs or symptoms of a substandard physi cal condition and receive medical attention. Those working regularly with trichloro ethylene may well be provided with a folder explaining the dangerous properties of this ma terial and a statement of proper precautions to observe. Facilities for personal cleanliness should be provided and time allowed for thorough washing before lunch and at the end of the work day. Careful cleansing with mild soap, followed by the use of an oily cream containing lanolin to replace skin oils which may have been dis solved by trichloroethylene, is an important aid in preventing dermal il is. 10.2.2 Physical Examinations 10.2.2.1 Piritlaceinent Extuniiuitiou Certain individuals have been found who are unduly susceptible to various chlorinated 14 miwuia ^035390 Trichloroethylene Manufacturing Clcmists' Association, Inc. Manual Sh..l SD-W hydrocarbons, as shown by previous expe riences. The exposure of such individuals can be minimized by a careful preplacement physi cal examination. Exposures to trichloroethy lene even in concentrations known to be noilhazardous to normal individuals should be pro hibited in the following cases: (a) Alcoholics, (b) Exceedingly fleshy individuals, (c) Undernourished individuals, (d) Those with pulmonary diseases, stomach ulcers, high blood pressure, diseases of the liver, kidney, or heart, and (o) Those suffering from paralysis, con vulsive seizures and highly nervous states. 10.2.2.2 Periodic Health Examinations Employees who are exposed regularly to trichloroethylene should be examined, at least semiannually, by a physician acquainted with the occupational hazards involved. Physical ex aminations should be required also when any symptoms of poisoning -such as enumerated above are present in employees. Discovery of symptoms of trichloroethylene poisoning may indicate some defect in operation. This would serve as an indication to examine other exposed employees for early signs of poisoning. 1 1 . FIRST AID 11.1 GENERAL PRINCIPLES Most important in the case of any poisoning is quick removal from exposure. In the case of trichloroethylene poisoning, this means first re moving the patient from the contaminated at mosphere and, insofar as possible, removing the trichloroethylene from the patient's respir atory tract, skin, or gastrointestinal tract. Give the patient fresh air by moving him to a well ventilated room and by dispersing any , crowd. If breathing has ceased, start artificial ' respiration at once. During recovery from an anesthetic dose of trichloroethylene, there may be great excite ment. Keep the patient quiet and comfortably warm, but not hot. Call a physician immediately, explaining - briefly and clearly what has happened and the exact, location of the patient. Do vot (five any thing by mouth to an unconscious patient, 11.2 SPECIFIC ACTIONS 11.2.1 Inhalation A person showing symptoms of trichloro ethylene vapor poisoning should be removed promptly from the contaminated area. In case breathing has stopped, elfectivo artificial respir ation, such as that obtained by (lie arm liltback pressure method should be started imme diately. If oxygen inhalation apparatus is avail able, oxygen should be administered only if one familiar with the operation of the apparatus is present to administer it. It patient, is conscious, iiot tea or codec may be given as a stimulant. Adrenalin should never be given to a per son suffering from trichloroethylene poisoning. A physician should be called at once. 11.2.2 Skin Contact All contaminated clothing should be re moved at once. Clothing, including shoes, soaked in trichloroethylene should be-removed and not worn again until thoroughly dry. All affected areas should be washed thoroughly with warm water and soap. After this an oint ment containing lanolin should be applied in order to replace the natural skin oils. For serious or persistent cases of skin trouble and for signs and symptoms of generalized poison ing, a physician should be consulted. 11.2.3 Contact with Eyes If liquid trichloroethylene has entered the eyes, they should be washed promptly with co pious quantities of water for at least 15 min utes. It is advisable to irrigate the eyes gently with water at room temperature in order to minimize additional pain and discomfort. Med ical attention should be obtained. 11.2.4 Taken Internally If a person has swallowed trichloroethy lene, he should be made to vomit by drinking a glassful of mustard water, lukewarm salt water, or soapy warm water. If necessary, the patient should lie encouraged to slick bis linger down his throat to induce vomiting. This pro cedure should be repealed at least three limes and ilicn followed by I hi' adniinisl nil ion of a tablespoonful of Epsom salt. A physician should be called at once. The medical information in this publication has pen supplied by the Medical Advisory Committee of the Manufacturing hemist's Association. 15 SL 035391