Document vVajjwoZ2dxo0x894MRxygkNq

Monsanto Monunto Company 600 N. Lindbargh Boulavard St.louii, Miaspufi 83160 Phone: (314) 694-1000 TOXICITY AND SAFE HANDLING OF ASKAREL On the basis of animal toxicity studies, the Askarels may be considered only slightly toxic from the stand point of accidental ingestion or a single accidental massive skin exposure. Similarly, single exposures to high concentrations of vapors (when heated suffi ciently to volatilize) or high concentrations of decom position products (if the fluid is accidentally discharged into the fire chamber) are not serious hazards because the irritating character of such concentrations preclude voluntary exposure. Repeated or prolonged skin exposure should be avoided since the Askarel fluids act as solvents for fats and oils of the skin. Removal of these natural, protective barriers can lead to drying and chapping such as occurs with exposures to paint thlnners. More Important, the fluid may be absorbed if It is allowed to remain on the unbroken skin. For these reasons, we recommend that the skin be washed with soap and water if there is con tact. A skin burn resulting from accidental contact with hot fluid should be treated in the normal manner for any thermal burn due to hot oils. Because of low vapor pressure, there is no significant vapor inhalation hazard when an Askarel fluid is at room temperature. For example, there is no vapor exposure problem while transferring the fluid from its shipping container to the using equipment. On the other hand, the vapors emitted by Askarels heated to elevated tem peratures are injurious on prolonged or repeated expo sure. The "Threshold Limit Value" or atmospheric vapor concentration which cannot be safely exceeded (on a dally basis) is 0.5 - 1.0 milligrams of Askarel vapor per cubic meter of air in the workroom. March 4, 1971 R. Emmet Kelly, M. D. Medical Director - ............... OSW 009521 STLCOPCB4001244