Acetone Safety Data Sheet: Essential Information for Safe Handling and Storage

Introduction

Acetone, a highly flammable and volatile liquid, is widely used in various industries, including chemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and nail polish remover. Understanding its potential hazards and implementing proper safety measures is crucial to prevent accidents and protect human health and the environment. This comprehensive safety data sheet provides detailed information on the physical and chemical properties, hazards, handling, storage, disposal, and first aid measures related to acetone. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure the safe and responsible use of acetone.

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Molecular Formula: (CH3)2CO
• Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
• Odor: Characteristic, pungent
• Boiling Point: 56.2 °C (133.2 °F)
• Melting Point: -95.3 °C (-139.5 °F)
• Flash Point: -20 °C (-4 °F) (closed cup)
• Auto-Ignition Temperature: 465 °C (869 °F)
• Density: 0.789 g/cm³ at 20 °C (68 °F)
• Vapor Pressure: 180 mmHg at 20 °C (68 °F)
• Solubility in Water: Miscible
• Specific Gravity: 0.79

Hazards

Health Hazards

• Inhalation: Excessive exposure to acetone vapors can cause respiratory irritation, headache, dizziness, and nausea.
• Skin Contact: Acetone can cause skin irritation, dryness, and defatting. Prolonged or repeated exposure may lead to dermatitis.
• Eye Contact: Acetone can cause eye irritation, redness, and tearing.
• Ingestion: Ingestion of large amounts of acetone can cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and central nervous system depression.

Fire and Explosion Hazards

• Flammability: Acetone is highly flammable and has a low flash point. It can easily ignite from sparks, flames, or heat sources.
• Vapor Explosion Hazard: Acetone vapors are heavier than air and can travel significant distances to ignition sources, creating a potential for vapor explosions.
• Decomposition Products: When acetone burns, it produces carbon dioxide and water vapor, which can be hazardous to health.

Environmental Hazards

• Aquatic Toxicity: Acetone is toxic to aquatic organisms.
• Biodegradation: Acetone is readily biodegradable in the environment.

Handling and Storage

Handling Precautions

• Use in Well-Ventilated Areas: Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent the build-up of acetone vapors.
• Avoid Contact with Skin and Eyes: Wear protective gloves, eye goggles, and a face shield when handling acetone.
• Prevent Ingestion: Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling acetone.
• Ground Containers: Ground all containers to prevent static electricity discharge, which can lead to ignition.
• Keep Away from Heat and Ignition Sources: Store acetone in a cool, well-ventilated area away from heat sources, flames, and sparks.

Storage Precautions

• Store in Approved Containers: Acetone should be stored in tightly sealed, corrosion-resistant containers.
• Limit Storage Time: Acetone should not be stored for extended periods, as it can evaporate and become unstable.
• Separate from Incompatible Materials: Store acetone away from oxidizers, strong acids, bases, and flammable materials.

Exposure Limits

• Occupational Exposure Limit (OSHA): 250 ppm (750 mg/m³) Time-Weighted Average (TWA)
• Short-Term Exposure Limit (OSHA): 500 ppm (1,500 mg/m³)
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH): 250 ppm (590 mg/m³) TWA
• National Academy of Sciences (NAS): 250 ppm (590 mg/m³) TWA

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Respiratory Protection: When working in areas with high concentrations of acetone vapors, use NIOSH-approved respirators.
• Eye Protection: Wear chemical goggles or a face shield to prevent eye contact.
• Skin Protection: Wear protective gloves and clothing made of chemically resistant materials.
• Emergency Shower and Eyewash: Ensure access to an emergency shower and eyewash station in case of accidental contact.

First Aid Measures

Inhalation

• Move the affected individual to fresh air.
• Provide oxygen if breathing is difficult.
• Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.

Skin Contact

• Remove contaminated clothing immediately.
• Wash affected skin with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
• Seek medical attention if irritation occurs.

Eye Contact

• Flush eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes.
• Hold eyelids open while rinsing.
• Seek medical attention if irritation or pain persists.

Ingestion

• Do not induce vomiting.
• Rinse mouth with water.
• Seek medical attention immediately.

Disposal

• Dispose of acetone according to local, state, and federal regulations.
• Contact a licensed waste disposal company for proper disposal.

Emergency Response

Fire

• Use dry chemical, CO2, or alcohol-resistant foam to extinguish flames.
• Cool containers with water spray to prevent pressure build-up.
• Evacuate the area and call the fire department.

Spill or Leak

• Small Spills: Absorb the spill with inert material, such as sand or vermiculite. Dispose of the material properly.
• Large Spills: Dike the area to prevent further spreading. Ventilate the area and contact emergency services.

Training and Education

• Provide comprehensive training to all employees handling acetone on its hazards, handling procedures, and emergency response measures.
• Regularly refresh training to ensure employees remain informed and updated on safety practices.

Conclusion

Adhering to the guidelines outlined in this safety data sheet is essential for ensuring the safe and responsible use of acetone. By understanding the potential hazards, implementing proper handling and storage measures, and providing adequate personal protective equipment and training, you can minimize the risks associated with acetone and protect the health and safety of workers and the environment.

Tables

Table 1: Physical and Chemical Properties of Acetone

Table 2: Exposure Limits for Acetone

Table 3: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Acetone Handling