Common Name: 1,2-Dichlorobenzene CAS Number: 95-50-1 DOT Number: UN 1591 Date: November, 1988 ----------------------------------------- HAZARD SUMMARY * 1,2-Dichlorobenzene can affect you when breathed in and by passing through your skin. * Exposure can cause headaches, nausea, and irritation of the eyes and throat. Higher exposures can cause you to be come dizzy and lightheaded and to pass out. * Exposure can damage blood cells. * Contact can cause irritation of the skin and eyes. Prolonged contact can cause severe burns. * It may damage the liver, kidneys and lungs. IDENTIFICATION 1,2-Dichlorobenzene is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a pleasant odor. It is used in dry cleaning, as a degreasing agent, and as an insecticide. REASON FOR CITATION * 1,2-Dichlorobenzene is on the Hazardous Substance List because it is regulated by OSHA and cited by ACGIH, NFPA, DOT, DEP and EPA. * Definitions are attached. HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOU ARE BEING EXPOSED * Exposure to hazardous substances should be routinely evaluated. This may include collecting personal and area air samples. You can obtain copies of sampling results from your employer. You have a legal right to this information under OSHA 1910.20. * ODOR THRESHOLD = 0.30 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 50 ppm averaged over an 8 hour workshift. ACGIH: The recommended airborne exposure limit is 50 ppm, which should not be exceeded at any time. * The above exposure limits are for air levels only. When skin contact also occurs, you may be overexposed, even though air levels are less than the limits listed above. 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 1,2- Dichlorobenzene 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 1,2-Dichlorobenzene 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 1,2-Dichlorobenzene: * Contact with the liquid can irritate the skin. Prolonged contact can cause skin burns. * The liquid can irritate and burn the eyes. * Exposure can cause headaches and nausea, and can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Higher levels can cause you to become dizzy and lightheaded and to pass out. Chronic Health Effects The following chronic (long term) health effects can occur at some time after exposure to 1,2-Dichlorobenzene and can last for months or years: Cancer Hazard * There is some evidence for an association between exposure to Dichlorobenzenes and leukemia. It is unclear at this time whether this association represents an increased cancer risk. Reproductive Hazard * 1,2-Dichlorobenzene may damage the testes (male reproductive glands). Other Long Term Effects * 1,2-Dichlorobenzene may cause a skin allergy. If an allergy develops, very low future exposures can cause itching and a skin rash. * The chemical may damage the lungs, liver, and kidneys. It may affect the nervous system. * Long term exposure can cause breakdown of blood cells. * This chemical has not been adequately evaluated to determine whether brain or other nerve damage could occur with repeated exposure. However, many solvents and other petroleum based chemicals have been shown to cause such damage. Effects may include reduced memory and concentration, personality changes (withdrawal, irritability), fatigue, sleep disturbances, reduced coordination, and/or effects on nerves supplying internal organs (autonomic nerves) and/or nerves to the arms and legs (weakness, "pins and needles"). 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, kidney and lung function tests. * Complete blood count. * Interview for brain effects, including recent memory, mood (irritability, withdrawal), concentration, headaches, malaise and altered sleep patterns. Consider cerebellar, autonomic and peripheral nervous system evaluation. Positive and borderline individuals should be referred for neuropsychological testing. If symptoms develop or overexposure is suspected, the following may be useful: * Evaluation by a qualified allergist, including careful exposure history and special testing, may help diagnose skin allergy. 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 * Because smoking can cause heart disease, as well as lung cancer, emphysema, and other respiratory problems, it may worsen respiratory conditions caused by chemical exposure. Even if you have smoked for a long time, stopping now will reduce your risk of developing health problems. * Because more than light alcohol consumption can cause liver damage, drinking alcohol may increase the liver damage caused by 1,2-Dichlorobenzene. 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 control is recommended: * Where possible, automatically pump liquid 1,2-Dichlorobenzene from drums or other storage containers to process containers. Good WORK PRACTICES can help to reduce hazardous exposures. The following work practices are recommended: * Workers whose clothing has been contaminated by 1,2- Dichlorobenzene should change into clean clothing promptly. * Eye wash fountains in the immediate work area should be provided for emergency use. * On skin contact with 1,2-Dichlorobenzene, immediately wash or shower to remove the chemical. * Wash any areas of the body that may have contacted 1,2- Dichlorobenzene at the end of each work day, whether or not known skin contact has occurred. * Do not eat, smoke, or drink where 1,2-Dichlorobenzene is handled, processed, or stored, since the chemical can be swallowed. Wash hands carefully before eating or smoking. 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 1,2-Dichlorobenzene. Wear solvent resistant 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. Eye Protection * Wear splash proof chemical goggles and face shield when working with liquid, unless full facepiece respiratory protection is worn. 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. * Engineering controls must be effective to ensure that exposure to 1,2-Dichlorobenzene does not occur. * Where the potential exists for exposure to 1,2- Dichlorobenzene, use a MSHA/ NIOSH approved full facepiece respirator with an organic vapor cartridge/ canister. Increased protection is obtained from full facepiece powered air purifying respirators. * If while wearing a filter, cartridge or canister respirator, you can smell, taste, or otherwise detect 1,2-Dichlorobenzene, or in the case of a full facepiece respirator you experience eye irritation, leave the area immediately. Check to make sure the respirator to face seal is still good. If it is, replace the filter, cartridge, or canister. If the seal is no longer good, you may need a new respirator. * Be sure to consider all potential exposures in your workplace. You may need a combination of filters, prefilters, cartridges, or canisters, to protect against different forms of a chemical (such as vapor and mist) or against a mixture of chemicals. * Where the potential exists for higher exposures over 50 ppm, 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 1,700 ppm is immediately dangerous to life and health. If the possibility of exposures above 1,700 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 1,2-Dichlorobenzene you should be trained on its proper handling and storage. * 1,2-Dichlorobenzene must be stored to avoid contact with STRONG OXIDIZERS (such as PERCHLORATES, PEROXIDES, PERMANGANATES, CHLORATES and NITRATES), HOT ALUMINUM or ALUMINUM ALLOYS since violent reactions occur. * Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well ventilated area away from HEAT and DIRECT LIGHT. * Sources of ignition, such as smoking and open flames, are prohibited where 1,2-Dichlorobenzene is used, handled, or stored in a manner that could create a potential fire or explosion hazard. Common Name: 1,2-Dichlorobenzene DOT Number: UN 1591 DOT Emergency Guide code: 58 CAS Number: 95-50-1 ---------------------------------------- NJ DOH Hazard rating FLAMMABILITY 2 REACTIVITY 0 ---------------------------------------- POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE ---------------------------------------- Hazard Rating Key: 0=minimal; 1=slight; 2=moderate; 3=serious; 4=severe FIRE HAZARDS * 1,2-Dichlorobenzene is a COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID. * Use dry chemical, CO2, water spray, or foam extinguishers. Water can be used to keep fire exposed containers cool. * POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE, including Hydrogen Chloride and Chlorine. * If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained and equipped as stated in OSHA 1910.156. SPILLS AND EMERGENCIES If 1,2-Dichlorobenzene 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 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 1,2- Dichlorobenzene 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. Skin Contact * Quickly remove contaminated clothing. Immediately wash area with large amounts of soap and water. Seek medical attention. 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. PHYSICAL DATA Vapor Pressure: 1.2 mm Hg at 68oF (20oC) Flash Point: 151oF (66.1oC) Water Solubility: slightly soluble OTHER COMMONLY USED NAMES Chemical Name: Benzene, 1,2 Dichloro Other Names and Formulations: o-Dichlorobenzene; o-Dichlorobenzol; Dichloricide. ------------------------------------------ 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 1,2-Dichlorobenzene is a manufactured chemical. It is used as a solvent for waxes, gums, resins, tars, rubbers, oils, and asphalts; as a fumigant, insecticide, and degreasing agent for metals, leather, and wool; as an ingredient of metal polishes; and as an intermediate to make dyes. It may enter the environment from industrial and municipal discharges. 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. 1,2-Dichlorobenzene has moderate acute toxicity to aquatic life and has caused injury, stunting, and harvest yield decrease in various agricultural crops. Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the short-term effects of 1,2-dichlorobenzene to 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. 1,2-Dichlorobenzene has moderate chronic toxicity to aquatic life. Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the long- term effects of 1,2-dichlorobenzene to plants, birds, or land animals. WATER SOLUBILITY 1,2-Dichlorobenzene is slightly soluble in water. Concentrations of less than 1 milligram will mix with a liter of water. DISTRIBUTION AND PERSISTENCE IN THE ENVIRONMENT 1,2-Dichlorobenzene is slightly persistent in water, with a half- life of between 2 to 20 days. The half-life of a pollutant is the amount of time it takes for one-half of the chemical to be degraded. About 97.5% of 1,2-dichlorobenzene will eventually end up in air; about 1.6% will end up in water; about 0.5% will end up in terrestrial soil; and the rest will end up in aquatic sediments. 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 1,2-dichlorobenzene found in fish tissues is expected to be somewhat higher than the average concentration of 1,2-dichlorobenzene in the water from which the fish was taken. SUPPORT DOCUMENT: AQUIRE Database, ERL-Duluth, U.S. EPA, Phytotox.