Common Name: Trichloroethylene CAS Number: 79-01-6 DOT Number: UN 1710 Date: October 30, 1986 ----------------------------------------- HAZARD SUMMARY * Trichloroethylene can affect you when breathed in. * It should be handled as a CARCINOGEN WITH EXTREME CAUTION. * Exposure can cause you to feel dizzy and to pass out. * Exposure can cause an irregular heart beat leading to sudden death. * High levels may cause brain damage and death. Repeated exposure can cause fatigue, memory loss, headache, irritability, mental confusion, and depression. * It can damage the liver and kidneys. High exposures can irritate the lungs. * Prolonged contact can burn the skin. IDENTIFICATION Trichloroethylene is a colorless liquid with a sweet odor. It is used as a solvent for degreasing and dry cleaning, and in printing inks, paints, lacquers, varnishes, and adhesives. REASON FOR CITATION * Trichloroethylene is on the Hazardous Substance List because it is regulated by OSHA and cited by ACGIH, NIOSH, DOT, IARC, CAG and NFPA. * This chemical is on the Special Health Hazard Substance List because it is a CANCER CAUSING AGENT and a MUTAGEN. * Definitions are attached. HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOU ARE BEING EXPOSED * Exposure to hazardous substances should be routinely evaluated. This may include collecting air samples. Under OSHA 1910.20, you have a legal right to obtain copies of sampling results from your employer. If you think you are experiencing any work related health problems, see a doctor trained to recognize occupational diseases. Take this Fact Sheet with you. * ODOR THRESHOLD = 28 ppm. * The odor threshold only serves as a warning of exposure. Not smelling it does not mean you are not being exposed. WORKPLACE EXPOSURE LIMITS OSHA: The legal airborne permissible exposure limit (PEL) is 100 ppm averaged over an 8 hour workshift, 200 ppm as a ceiling limit, and 300 ppm as an acceptable maximum peak above the ceiling limit for 5 minutes duration in any 2 hours. NIOSH: The recommended airborne exposure limit is 25 ppm averaged over a 10 hour workshift. ACGIH: The recommended airborne exposure limit is 50 ppm averaged over an 8 hour workshift and 200 ppm as a STEL (short term exposure limit). * Trichloroethylene may be a CARCINOGEN in humans. There may be no safe level of exposure to a carcinogen, so all contact should be reduced to the lowest possible level. WAYS OF REDUCING EXPOSURE * Where possible, enclose operations and use local exhaust ventilation at the site of chemical release. If local exhaust ventilation or enclosure is not used, respirators should be worn. * Wear protective work clothing. * Wash thoroughly immediately after exposure to Trichloroethylene and at the end of the workshift. * Post hazard and warning information in the work area. In addition, as part of an ongoing education and training effort, communicate all information on the health and safety hazards of Trichloroethylene to potentially exposed workers. This Fact Sheet is a summary source of information of all potential and most severe health hazards that may result from exposure. Duration of exposure, concentration of the substance and other factors will affect your susceptibility to any of the potential effects described below. ------------------------------------------ HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Acute Health Effects The following acute (short term) health effects may occur immediately or shortly after exposure to Trichloroethylene: * Trichloroethylene may irritate the skin, causing a rash or a burning feeling. Prolonged contact can burn and blister the skin. * The liquid may damage and irritate the eyes. * Exposure to the vapor can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. Higher levels can cause a buildup of fluid (pulmonary edema). This can cause death. * Exposure can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, visual disturbances, an excited feeling, nausea and vomiting. Very high levels can cause irregular heartbeat, unconsciousness, and death. Chronic Health Effects The following chronic (long term) health effects can occur at some time after exposure to Trichloroethylene and can last for months or years: Cancer Hazard * Trichloroethylene may be a CARCINOGEN in humans since it has been shown to cause liver cancer in animals. * Many scientists believe there is no safe level of exposure to a carcinogen. Reproductive Hazard * There appears to be an association between exposure to various solvents (including Trichloroethylene and Toluene) and birth defects among women in the shoemaking industry. Trichloroethylene's role in this association is unclear. * There is limited evidence that Trichloroethylene is a teratogen in animals. Until further testing has been done, it should be treated as a possible teratogen in humans. Other Long Term Effects * Trichloroethylene may cause a skin allergy. If an allergy develops, very low future exposures can cause itching and a skin rash. * It can damage the liver and kidneys. * Repeated exposure can cause memory loss, headache, intolerance of alcohol, depression, and weakness in the arms and legs. * Prolonged or repeated contact can cause irritation, blistering, roughening, and cracking of the exposed skin. Repeated immersion of the hands in Trichloroethylene may cause paralysis of the fingers. * Exposure can damage the facial nerves even causing paralysis. MEDICAL Medical Testing For those with frequent or potentially high exposure (half the TLV or greater, or significant skin contact), the following are recommended before beginning work and at regular times after that: * Liver function tests. If symptoms develop or overexposure is suspected, the following may be useful: * Exam of the nervous system. Consider nerve conduction tests. * Urinary Trichloracetic Acid level (for repeated exposures) or blood Trichlorethylene levels (for acute exposure). * Consider chest x ray after acute over exposure. * Evaluation by a qualified allergist, including careful exposure history and special testing, may help diagnose skin allergy. * Kidney function tests. Any evaluation should include a careful history of past and present symptoms with an exam. Medical tests that look for damage already done are not a substitute for controlling exposure. Request copies of your medical testing. You have a legal right to this information under OSHA 1910.20. Mixed Exposures * Drinking alcohol (beer, wine, liquor) may cause a flush on the back and neck in people exposed to Trichloroethylene. * Because more than light alcohol consumption can cause liver damage, drinking alcohol can increase the liver damage caused by Trichloroethylene. WORKPLACE CONTROLS AND PRACTICES Unless a less toxic chemical can be substituted for a hazardous substance, ENGINEERING CONTROLS are the most effective way of reducing exposure. The best protection is to enclose operations and/or provide local exhaust ventilation at the site of chemical release. Isolating operations can also reduce exposure. Using respirators or protective equipment is less effective than the controls mentioned above, but is sometimes necessary. In evaluating the controls present in your workplace, consider: (1) how hazardous the substance is, (2) how much of the substance is released into the workplace and (3) whether harmful skin or eye contact could occur. Special controls should be in place for highly toxic chemicals or when significant skin, eye, or breathing exposures are possible. In addition, the following controls are recommended: * Where possible, automatically pump liquid Trichloroethylene from drums or other storage containers to process containers. * Specific engineering controls are recommended for this chemical by NIOSH. Refer to the NIOSH criteria document: Occupational Exposure to Trichloroethylene # 73 11025. Good WORK PRACTICES can help to reduce hazardous exposures. The following work practices are recommended: * Workers whose clothing has been contaminated by Trichloroethylene should change into clean clothing promptly. * Do not take contaminated work clothes home. Family members could be exposed. * Contaminated work clothes should be laundered by individuals who have been informed of the hazards of exposure to Trichloroethylene. * Eye wash fountains should be provided in the immediate work area for emergency use. * Do not eat, smoke, or drink where Trichloroethylene is handled, processed, or stored, since the chemical can be swallowed. Wash hands carefully before eating or smoking. * Do not smoke in the work area. Even a little vapor inhaled through a burning cigarette, cigar, or pipe will be converted into more highly toxic substances. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT WORKPLACE CONTROLS ARE BETTER THAN PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT. However, for some jobs (such as outside work, confined space entry, jobs done only once in a while, or jobs done while workplace controls are being installed), personal protective equipment may be appropriate. The following recommendations are only guidelines and may not apply to every situation. Clothing * Avoid skin contact with Trichloroethylene. Wear protective gloves and clothing. Safety equipment suppliers/ manufacturers can provide recommendations on the most protective glove/ clothing material for your operation. * All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear) should be clean, available each day, and put on before work. * ACGIH recommends VITON for providing excellent protection. Eye Protection * Eye protection is included in the recommended respiratory protection. Respiratory Protection IMPROPER USE OF RESPIRATORS IS DANGEROUS. Such equipment should only be used if the employer has a written program that takes into account workplace conditions, requirements for worker training, respirator fit testing and medical exams, as described in OSHA 1910.134. * At any exposure level use a MSHA/NIOSH approved supplied air respirator with a full facepiece operated in the positive pressure mode or with a full facepiece, hood, or helmet in the continuous flow mode, or use a MSHA/NIOSH approved self contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece operated in pressure demand or other positive pressure mode. * Exposure to 1,000 ppm is immediately dangerous to life and health. If the possibility of exposures above 1,000 ppm exists use a MSHA/NIOSH approved self contained breathing apparatus with a full facepiece operated in continuous flow or other positive pressure mode. HANDLING AND STORAGE * Prior to working with Trichloroethylene you should be trained on its proper handling and storage. * Trichloroethylene must be handled and stored away from operations which generate HIGH TEMPERATURES, such as ARC WELDING or CUTTING; UNSHIELDED RESISTANCE HEATING; OPEN FLAMES; and HIGH INTENSITY ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT. * It must also be handled to avoid contact with HOT METALS. Poisonous gases such as PHOSGENE, and HYDROGEN CHLORIDE are formed. * Prevent contact of Trichloroethylene with STRONG ALKALIS, such as SODIUM HYDROXIDE or POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE, because a highly flammable, toxic liquid is produced. Also prevent contact with ALUMINUM in the presence of DILUTE HY DROCHLORIC ACID, because a violent reaction will occur. * Prevent contact with CHEMICALLY ACTIVE METALS, POWDERS, or SHAVINGS, such as BARIUM, LITHIUM, SODIUM, or MAGNESIUM; and TITANIUM POWDERS or SHAVINGS, since an explosion can occur. Common Name: Trichloroethylene DOT Number: UN 1710 DOT Emergency Guide code: 74 CAS Number: 79-01-6 ---------------------------------------- NJ DOH Hazard rating FLAMMABILITY 1 REACTIVITY 0 ---------------------------------------- POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN A FIRE CONTAINERS MAY EXPLODE IN FIRE ---------------------------------------- Hazard Rating Key: 0=minimal; 1=slight; 2=moderate; 3=serious; 4=severe FIRE HAZARDS * POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE, including Phosgene and Hydrogen Chloride. * CONTAINERS MAY EXPLODE IN FIRE. * Use dry chemical or CO2 extinguishers. * Water can be used to keep fire exposed containers cool. Water spray can also be used to flush spills away from expo sure sources. * If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained and equipped as stated in OSHA 1910.156. SPILLS AND EMERGENCIES If Trichloroethylene is spilled or leaked, take the following steps: * Restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of spill or leak until cleanup is complete. * Remove all ignition sources. * Ventilate the area of spill or leak. * Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or a similar material and deposit in sealed containers. * It may be necessary to contain and dispose of Trichloroethylene as a HAZARDOUS WASTE. Contact your state Environmental Program for specific recommendations. ========================================== FOR LARGE SPILLS AND FIRES immediately call your fire department. ========================================== FIRST AID POISON INFORMATION Eye Contact * Immediately flush with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek medical attention immediately. Skin Contact * Quickly remove contaminated clothing. Immediately wash area with large amounts of soap and water. Seek medical attention immediately. Breathing * Remove the person from exposure. * Begin rescue breathing if breathing has stopped and CPR if heart action has stopped. * Transfer promptly to a medical facility. * Medical observation is recommended for 24 to 48 hours after breathing overexposure, as pulmonary edema may be de layed. PHYSICAL DATA Vapor Pressure: 58 mm Hg at 68oF Water Solubility: Slightly soluble OTHER COMMONLY USED NAMES Chemical Name: Trichloroethene Other Names and Formulations: 1,1,2 Trichloroethylene; Tri clene; Tri; TCE. ------------------------------------------ Not intended to be copied and sold for commercial purposes. ------------------------------------------ NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH Right to Know Program CN 368, Trenton, NJ 08625 0368 ------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------ ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION Trichloroethylene is a clear, colorless nonflammable liquid. It is heavier than water. It is widely used as a solvent for fats, waxes, resins, ores, rubber, paints and varnishes. It is also used in dry cleaning, in degreasing and as an intermediate to make other organic chemicals. Trichloroethylene may enter the environment from industrial discharges, municipal waste treatment plant discharges, or spills. ACUTE (SHORT-TERM) ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS Acute toxic effects may include the death of animals, birds, or fish, and death or low growth rate in plants. Acute effects are seen two to four days after animals or plants come in contact with a toxic chemical substance. Trichloroethylene has moderate acute toxicity to aquatic life. Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the short- term effects of Trichloroethylene to plants, birds, or land animals. CHRONIC (LONG-TERM) ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS Chronic toxic effects may include shortened lifespan, reproductive problems, lower fertility, and changes in appearance or behavior. Chronic effects can be seen long after first exposure(s) to a toxic chemical. Trichloroethylene has moderate chronic toxicity to aquatic life. Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the long- term effects of Trichloroethylene to plants, birds, or land animals. WATER SOLUBILITY Trichlorethylene is moderately soluble in water. Concentrations of between 1 to 1,000 milligrams will mix with a liter of water. DISTRIBUTION AND PERSISTENCE IN THE ENVIRONMENT Trichloroethylene is non-persistent in water, with a half-life of less than 2 days. The half-life of a pollutant is the amount of time it takes for one-half of the chemical to be degraded. About 99.6% of Trichloroethylene will eventually end up in air; the rest will end up in the water. BIOACCUMULATION IN AQUATIC ORGANISMS Some substances increase in concentration, or bioaccumulate, in living organisms as they breathe contaminated air, drink contaminated water, or eat contaminated food. These chemicals can become concentrated in the tissues and internal organs of animals and humans. The concentration of Trichloroethylene found in fish tissues is expected to be somewhat higher than the average concentration of Trichloroethylene in the water from which the fish was taken. SUPPORT DOCUMENT: AQUIRE Database, ERL-Duluth, U.S. EPA.