Summary

Toluene is a clear, colourless, low volatily liquid with an aromatic odour.

Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS-1988)

Classification : B2, D2A, D2B

Transport of Dangerous Goods (TDG)

UN1294

Safety Equipments

If direct contact with the liquid

If splashing is possible

Exposure above the limit

Permissible Exposure Values in Québec

According to the Regulation respecting occupational health and safety

• Time-weighted average exposure value (TWAEV): 50 ppm (188 mg/m³)

Designation and remarks:

• Pc (the chemical is absorbed by the skin)

First aid

Inhalation
In case of vapor inhalation, remove the person to fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. Consult a physician.

Eye contact
Flush eyes with plenty of water for 5 minutes or until the product has been eliminated. If irritation persists, consult a physician.

Skin contact
Wash with soap and water. If irritation persists, consult a physician

Ingestion
Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting due to aspiration hazard. Consult a physician.

Safety hazards

Can ignite with heat, sparks or open flames. Violent reaction can occur in the presence of strong oxidizing agents. Vapor may travel to a source of ignition and flash back.

Means of extinction and special procedures
Carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder, alcohol foam or water spray. Wear a self-contained breathing apparatus and adequate protective clothing.

Health hazards

Exposure in the workplace occurs by inhalation of vapors and contact with the liquid.

Effects of short-term exposure

Skin and eye contact
This product irritates the skin and may irritate the eyes.

Vapor inhalation
Inhalation of vapors may cause central nervous system depression (headache, dizziness, feeling of intoxication, weakness, drowsiness, nausea).

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 vapors may produce effects on the central nervous system. The symptoms are : headache, tiredness, memory and concentration troubles, hearing loss and vision alterations.

Developmental effect
Depending on the working environment, exposure of the pregnant worker to that product can affect the development of her baby.

Note
Exposure to other chemical products, alcohol consumption and some medicines can increase the toxic effects of toluene.

Preventive measures

Protective equipment

Respiratory tract
From 50 ppm, wear adequate respiratory protection.

Skin
Gloves: multilayer polyethylene/vinyl alcohol and ethylene/polyethylene (PE/EVAL/PE) polyvinyl alcohol (PVAL); multilayer Viton®/butyl rubber; Viton®.

Eyes
Wear safety glasses if splashing is possible.

Handling procedures

Handle in a ventilated area, away from ignition sources and using grounded apparatus. Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.

Storage

Store in a cool and ventilated area, away from heat, any source of ignition and incompatible materials. Containers must be grounded.

Leak or spill

Avoid any source of ignition and ventilate. Absorb or cover with dry sand or any non-flammable material and transfer into a sealed container.