Summary

Styrene is a colorless to yellowish oily viscous liquid. Its aromatic odor, almost floral at low concentrations, becomes penetrating and unpleasant at higher concentrations.

Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS-1988)

Classes : B2, D2A, D2B

Transport of Dangerous Goods (TDG)

UN2055

Safety Equipments

Permissible Exposure Values in Québec

According to the Regulation respecting occupational health and safety

Time-weighted average exposure value (TWAEV): 50 ppm (213 mg/m³)

Short-term exposure value (STEV): 100 ppm (426 mg/m³)

Designation and remarks:

• C3 (carcinogenic effect detected in animals)
• Pc (percutaneous) 

First aid

Inhalation
In case of vapor inhalation, move the person to fresh air. If breathing has stopped, administer artificial respiration. Consult a physician.

Eye contact
Rinse the eyes with plenty of water for 15 to 20 minutes.  If irritation persists, consult a physician.

Skin contact
Remove contaminated clothes promptly. Rinse the skin with soap and water.

Ingestion
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Consult a physician.

Safety hazards

Fire fighting and special procedures

Use the following extinguishing media: carbon dioxide (CO₂), foam, dry chemical powder, water spray.
Do not use straight water streams.  Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool and prevent explosive polymerization.

Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.  Move containers from fire, if this can be done without risk.

Combustion products

Carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide.

Health hazards

Exposure in the workplace occurs mainly by inhalation of vapors.

Effects of short-term exposure

Skin and eye contact
This product causes moderate irritation of the eyes and slight irritation of the skin.

Vapor inhalation
Inhalation of vapors may cause irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract. Inhalation of a high concentration of vapors may cause central nervous system depression (headache, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, weakness and difficulties in concentration).

Effects of repeated or prolonged exposure

Skin contact
This product has a defatting action on the skin, resulting in redness, desquamation and cracking.

Vapor inhalation
Inhalation of a high concentration may cause  central nervous system depression (headache, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite and general weakness). In rare cases, styrene may cause asthma.

Cancer
Styrene is possibly carcinogenic to humans.

Preventive measures

Protective equipment

Respiratory tract

Wear a chemical cartridge respirator with organic vapor cartridge(s), if the concentration in the workplace is greater than the TWAEV (50 ppm or 213 mg/m³) or the STEV (100 ppm or 426 mg/m³).

Skin

Recommended gloves: polyethylene/ethylene vinyl alcohol /polyethylene (PE/EVAL/PE), polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL) or Viton®.

Eyes

Wear safety glasses if there is any splash risk.

Handling procedures

This product is highly flammable.  Flowing and shaking liquid can cumulate electrostastic discharges: equipment must be grounded. Use away from heat and ignition sources.  Use non-sparking tools. Do not eat or drink when using this product. Avoid all contact with skin and with eyes.

Storage

Store away from heat and ignition sources, in a clearly identified tightly closed container, away from oxidizers, other incompatible material and light, in a cool, dry and well ventilated area. Container must be grounded.

Leak or spill

Eliminate all ignition sources from the area.  Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non combustible absorbing material. Keep in a tightly closed container that is clearly identified

Do not dispose of liquid in sewers and of used absorbing material in trash.  If necessary, consult the regional office of the Ministry of the Environment.