Toxic Materials

A substance that is poisnous if swallowed or breathed in. It may even go through your skin.
Very poisonous chemicals are labelled with the 'toxic' symbol. Anyone who uses a toxic
chemical needs to take great care. They should wear gloves and eye protection, and they may
wear a mask over their mouth and nose, or handle the chemical in a fume cupboard.
Definition of Toxic Materials
Toxicity is the ability of a substance to cause harmful health effects. These effects can
strike a single cell, a group of cells, an organ system, or the entire body. A toxic effect may be
visible damage, or a decrease in performance or function measurable only by a test. All
chemicals can cause harm at a certain level. When a small amount can be harmful, the
chemical is considered toxic. When only a very large amount of the chemical can cause
damage, the chemical is considered to be relatively non-toxic. The toxicity of a substance
depends on three factors: its chemical structure, the extent to which the substance is absorbed
by the body, and the bodys ability to detoxify the substance (change it into less toxic
substances) and eliminate it from the body.
Toxic materials are substances that may cause harm to an individual if it enters the
body. Toxic materials may enter the body in different ways. These ways are called the route
of exposure. The most common route of exposure is through inhalation (breathing it into the
lungs). Another common route of entry is through skin contact. Some materials can easily
pass through unprotected skin and enter the body. Ingestion is another, less common, route of
exposure in the workplace. Ingestion often occurs accidentally through poor hygiene
practices (e.g. eating food or smoking a cigarette using contaminated hands).
An individual may be exposed to a chemical substance via a number of different
routes: inhalation ingestion, contact with skin or eyes. Inhalation of toxic vapors, mists, gases
or dusts can result in poisoning by absorption through the mucous membrane of the mouth,
throat, and lungs, and can cause serious local effects. Because of the large surface area of the
lung (90 square meters total surface) along with its continuous blood flow, inhaled gases or
vapor may be very rapidly absorbed and carried into the circulatory system. The rate of

absorption will vary with the concentration of the toxic substance, its solubility and the
individual inhalation rate. The degree of injury from exposure to a toxic substance depends
on the toxicity of the material, its solubility in tissue fluids and the concentration and duration
of exposure. To prevent ingestion of chemicals, laboratory workers should wash their hands
immediately after using a toxic substance and before leaving the laboratory. Food and drink
should not be stored or consumed in areas where chemicals are being used. Chemicals should
not be tasted, and pipetting and siphoning of liquids should never be done by mouth.
Skin contact is the most frequent route of exposure to chemical substances. A
common result of skin contact is localized irritation, but some materials can be absorbed
through the skin sufficiently to produce systemic poisoning. Contact of most chemicals with
the eyes will result in pain and irritation. A considerable number of chemical substances are
capable of causing burns or loss of vision. Alkaline materials, phenols and strong acids are
particularly corrosive and may cause permanent loss of vision. Furthermore, the vascular
network of the eyes may permit the rapid absorption of many chemicals.
Before initiating work with a chemical substance, the researcher or laboratory worker
should be familiar with the types of toxicity, the toxic dose, and the hazards of the chemical.
It is also important to realize that two or more substances may act synergistically to produce a
toxic effect than that of either substance alone. Furthermore, chemical reactions involving
two or more substances may form products significantly more toxic than the starting
materials. Therefore, the entire experimental procedure should be evaluated.
The Examples of Toxic Materials
Chemical Name
Methylene
chloride

Potential Health Effects/Symptoms Associated with Toxicity

(Note: not a complete listing of symptoms
Mild central nervous system depressant. May cause headache, nausea,
dizziness, drowsiness, incoordination and confusion, unconsciousness and
death.
Causes skin and eye irritation.

Isopropyl alcohol Mild central nervous system depressant. High vapour concentrations may
(2-propanol)
cause headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, incoordination, and
confusion. Very high exposures may result in unconsciousness and death.
May be irritating to the respiratory tract.
Causes eye irritation.
Swallowing or vomiting of the liquid may cause aspiration (breathing) into
the lungs.
Acetone

Mild central nervous system depressant.

Very high concentrations may cause headache, nausea, dizziness,

drowsiness, incoordination and confusion.

Causes eye irritation.
Swallowing or vomiting of the liquid may result in aspiration into the
lungs.
l-Limonene

Causes moderate skin irritation.

May cause allergic skin reaction.

Acetaldehyde

The vapour is irritating to the respiratory tract. May cause lung injury.
These effects may be delayed.
Causes severe eye irritation.

Hydrogen
May be fatal if swallowed.
peroxide (>35%)

Many useful household projects contain toxic chemicals. Common examples include:
drain cleaner
laundry detergent
furniture polish
gasoline
pesticides
ammonia
toilet bowl cleaner
motor oil
rubbing alcohol
bleach
battery acid

The Different Forms of Toxic Materials

Toxic materials can take the form of solids, liquids, gases and vapors, as well as
particles of various sizes, including very small, or nanoparticles. A toxic material may take
different forms under varying conditions, and each form may present a different type of
hazard. For example, lead solder as wire (solid) is not hazardous because it is not likely to
enter the body.

Solid.
A solid is a material that retains its form, like stone. Solids are generally not
hazardous since they are not likely to be absorbed into the body, unless present as
small particles such as dust, fumes, fibers, and nanoparticles.

Liquid.
A liquid is a material that flows freely, like water. Many hazardous substances are in
liquid form at normal temperatures. Some liquids can damage the skin. Some pass
through the skin and enter the body, and may or may not cause skin damage. Liquids
may also evaporate, producing vapors or gases which can be inhaled.

Gas.
A gas is a substance composed of unconnected molecules, such that it has low density
and no shape of its own, like air. Gases mix easily with air (air itself is a mixture of
nitrogen, oxygen, and other substances). Some gases, like carbon monoxide, are
highly toxic. Others, like nitrogen, are not toxic but can displace the air in a confined
space, causing suffocation due to lack of oxygen; these are called asphyxiant gases.

Vapor.
A vapor is the gas form of a substance that can also exist as a liquid at normal
pressure and temperature. Most organic solvents evaporate and produce vapors.
Vapors can be inhaled into the lungs, and in some cases may irritate the eyes, skin, or
respiratory tract. Some are flammable, explosive, and/or toxic. The terms vapor
pressure and evaporation rate are used to indicate the tendency for different liquids to
evaporate.

Dust.
A dust consists of small solid particles in the air or on surfaces. Dusts may be created
when solids are pulverized or ground. Dusts may be hazardous because they can be
inhaled into the respiratory tract. Larger particles of dust are usually trapped in the
nose where they can be expelled, but smaller particles (respirable dust) can reach and
may damage the lungs. Some, like lead dust, may then enter the bloodstream through
the lungs. Some dusts, such as grain dust, may explode when they reach high
concentrations in the air.

Fume. A fume consists of very small, fine solid particles in the air which form when
solid chemicals (often metals or plastics) are heated to very high temperatures,
evaporate vapor, and combine with oxygen. The welding or brazing of metal, for
example, produces metal fumes. Fumes are hazardous because they are easily inhaled,
and have a large surface area in contact with body tissues. Some metal fumes can
cause an illness called metal fume fever, consisting of fever, chills, and aches like the
flu. Inhalation of other metal fumes, such as lead, can cause poisoning without
causing metal fume fever.

Fiber.
A fiber is a solid particle whose length is at least three times its width. The degree of
hazard is affected by the size of the fiber. Smaller fibers, such as asbestos, can reach
the lungs and cause serious harm. Larger fibers may be trapped in the upper
respiratory tract, and are expelled without reaching the lung.

Mist.
A mist consists of liquid particles of various sizes which are produced by agitation or
spraying of liquids. Mists can be hazardous when they are inhaled or sprayed on the
skin. The spraying of pesticides and the machining of metals using metal working
fluids are two situations where mists are commonly produced.

How are toxic materials hazardous to healthiness

Toxic materials can cause serious health effects in an exposed individual. The degree
of hazard associated with any toxic material is related to the exact material you are exposed
to, concentration of the material, the route into the body and the amount absorbed by the body
(the dose). Individual susceptibility of the user also plays a role.
The health effects may occur immediately or the effects may be delayed. Health
effects that occur immediately after a single exposure are called acute effects. In other cases,
health effects will not occur until some point after the exposure. This is called a chronic
effect. A chronic effect may occur hours, days, months or even years after exposure.
Generally, acute effects are caused by a single, relatively high exposure. Chronic effects tend
to occur over a longer period of time and involve lower exposures (e.g., exposure to a smaller
amount over time). Some toxic materials can have both acute and chronic health effects.
It is important to remember that toxic materials can have other hazards associated
with it. For example, a toxic material may also be corrosive and flammable. Always read the
Material Safety Data Sheet and labels to be sure you understand what is in the product and
how to work with it safely. If you do not understand the instructions, or if you are not sure,
check with your supervisor.
How to store containers of toxic materials
For the storage of toxic materials, ensure that the storage area is clearly identified
with warning signs, is clear of obstructions, and is accessible only to trained and authorized
personnel.
Before storing toxic materials, inspect all incoming containers to ensure that the
containers are undamaged and are properly labelled. Do not accept delivery of defective
containers. Also, be sure to store toxic materials in the type of containers recommended by
the manufacturer or supplier.
Some other important points for storage of toxic materials include:

Keep the amount of toxic material in storage as small as possible.

Inspect storage areas and containers regularly for any deficiencies, including
leaking or damaged containers, expired shelf-life or poor housekeeping.
Correct all deficiencies as soon as possible.
Ensure that containers are tightly closed when not in use and when empty.
Keep empty containers in a separate storage area. Empty containers may
contain hazardous toxic residue -- keep closed.

Store containers at a convenient height for handling, below eye level if

possible. High shelving increases the risk of dropping containers and the
severity of damage, injury and/or exposure if a fall occurs.
Store material within the temperature range recommended by the chemical
manufacturer/supplier.
To contain spills or leaks, the toxic material containers should be stored in
trays made of compatible materials. For larger containers such as drums or
barrels, provide dikes around the storage area and sills or ramps at door
openings. Storage tanks are above ground and surrounded with a dike capable
of holding entire contents.

Where should toxic materials be stored

Toxic materials must be stored properly. In general, the storage area for toxic
materials should have the following characteristics. Many of these recommendations apply
for safe chemical storage in general.
Ensure that the storage area is well-ventilated and out of direct sunlight.
Store toxics separately, away from processing and handling areas, eating areas and
protective equipment storage. Separate storage reduces the amount of damage and/or
injury caused in case of fires, spills or leaks. If totally separate storage is not possible,
use physical separation to keep toxics away from incompatible materials.
The storage area should be fire-resistant and constructed from non-combustible
materials.
Ensure that emergency eyewash/shower stations are readily available nearby and are
tested regularly.
Ensure that suitable fire extinguishers and spill clean-up equipment are available.
How to handle toxic materials safely
Safe handling and work procedures are crucial for workplaces where individuals use
toxic materials. It is vital that people working with hazardous materials such as toxics are
properly trained regarding the potential hazards. Remember, if, at any time an individual is
unsure or has questions about working with a toxic material, they should always talk with the
supervisor.
In general, when handling toxic materials:
Use only the smallest amount necessary to do the job.
Prevent the release of toxic vapours, dusts, mists or gases into the workplace air.
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (if necessary) to avoid exposure (eye,
respiratory or skin) or contact with contaminated equipment/surfaces.
Be aware of the typical symptoms of poisoning and first aid procedures. Report any
signs of illness or overexposure immediately to the supervisor. Depending on the
material, medical attention for an exposure may be required even if the exposure did
not seem excessive. With some materials, symptoms of a severe exposure can be
delayed.

Do not return contaminated or unused material to the original container.

Ensure containers are clearly labeled and inspect containers for leaks or damage
before handling.
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
Ensure suitable emergency equipment for fires, spills and leaks are readily available.
Ensure emergency eyewash/shower stations are readily available and are tested
regularly.
To prevent spillage, use proper tools to open containers and to transfer material.
Pour toxic liquids carefully from the container to avoid splashing and spurting.
Avoid any welding, cutting, soldering or other hot work on an empty container or
piping until all toxic liquid and vapours have been cleared.
Maintain good housekeeping (e.g. clean surfaces, no accumulation of dust).

Methods of Toxins Entering the Body:

Ingestion - Absorption through the digestive tract. This process can occur through
eating with contaminated hands or in contaminated areas.
Absorption - Absorption through the skin often causes dermatitis. Some toxins that
are absorbed through the skin or eyes can damage the liver, kidney, or other organs.
Inhalation - Absorption through the respiratory tract (lungs) through breathing. This
process is the most important route in terms of severity.
Injection - Percutaneous injection of a toxic substance through the skin. This process
can occur in the handling of sharp-edged pieces of broken glass apparatus and through
misuse of sharp materials such as hypodermic needles.

Acute and Chronic Effects

Acute

Chronic

Occurs immediately or soon after exposure

(short latency).

Occurs over time or long after exposure (long

latency)

Often involves a high exposure (large dose

over a short period).

Often involves low exposures (small and

repetitive doses) over a long period.

Can be minor or severe. For example, a small

amount of ammonia can cause throat or eye
irritation; higher concentrations can cause
serious or even fatal lung damage.

Often involve inflammation and scarring of

organs, such as the lung or kidney. Chronic
effects are still unknown for many chemicals.
For example, most chemicals have not been
tested in experimental animals for cancer or
reproductive effects. It may be difficult to
establish

Relationship between chemical exposure and

symptoms is generally, although not always,
obvious.

The relationship between chemical exposure

and illness because of the long time delay

Knowledge often based on human exposure.

Knowledge often based on animal studies.

PPE for Chemical Toxins

Three primary considerations for selection of PPE

State of hazard (gas, liquid, solution, solid, fume or dust)

This tells you what kind of exposure you need to guard against (inhalation, skin,
etc.)
Chemical compatibility and resistance to penetration
Severity of effect of exposure
Gases, vapors, fumes and dusts
Inhalation hazard
Review MSDS for toxic effects of inhalation
Review MSDS for toxic effects of skin or eye contact
Consider respirator
May require full body isolation
Supplied breathing air
Moon suit

PPE for Toxic Liquids and Solutions

Liquids may be inhalation hazards

Liquids also may be able to penetrate protective equipment material
Some liquids can be absorbed through skin
Review EHS guides for specific chemicals and PPE recommendations
Review MSDS for toxic effects of inhalation
Review MSDS for toxic effects of skin or eye contact
Consider inhalation and full body protection
Gloves
Review for breakthrough rate to liquid to be used (link)
It is just a matter of time before a liquid will penetrate
Consider potential for cuts, needle sticks, and abrasions
Multiple gloving can multiple hazards
Example: Silver shield inner gloves
Evaluate mobility, flexibility, dextirity

Toxicity Classes

Toxicity class refers to a classification system for pesticides that has been created by a
national or international government-related or -sponsored organization. It addresses the
acute toxicity of agents such as
soil fumigants, fungicides, herbicides, insecticides, miticides,molluscicides, nematicides,
or rodenticides.
EPA (United States)
The United States Environmental Protection Agency uses four toxicity classes. Classes I to III
are required to carry a signal word on the label. Pesticides are regulated in the United
States primarily by the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).
1. Toxicity Class I
most toxic;
requires signal word: "Danger-Poison", with skull and crossbones symbol,
possibly followed by:
"Fatal if swallowed", "Poisonous if inhaled", "Extremely hazardous by skin
contact--rapidly absorbed through skin", or "Corrosive--causes eye damage
and severe skin burns"
Class I materials are estimated to be fatal to an adult human at a dose of less
than 5 grams (less than a teaspoon).
2. Toxicity Class II
Moderately toxic
Signal word: "Warning", possibly followed by:
"Harmful or fatal if swallowed", "Harmful or fatal if absorbed through the
skin", "Harmful or fatal if inhaled", or "Causes skin and eye irritation"
Class II materials are estimated to be fatal to an adult human at a dose of 5 to
30 grams.
3. Toxicity Class III
Slightly toxic
Signal word: Caution, possibly followed by:
"Harmful if swallowed", "May be harmful if absorbed through the skin", "May
be harmful if inhaled", or "May irritate eyes, nose, throat, and skin"
Class III materials are estimated to be fatal to an adult human at some dose in
excess of 30 grams.
4. Toxicity Class IV
Practically nontoxic

Glove Selection Guideline

Skin contact is a potential source of exposure to toxic materials; it is important that the proper
steps be taken to prevent such contact. Most accidents involving hands and arms can be

classified under four main hazard categories: chemicals, abrasions, cutting, and heat. There are
gloves available that can protect workers from any of these individual hazards or any combination
thereof.
Gloves should be replaced periodically, depending on frequency of use and permeability to the
substance(s) handled. Gloves overtly contaminated should be rinsed and then carefully removed
after use.
Gloves should also be worn whenever it is necessary to handle rough or sharp-edged objects,
and very hot or very cold materials. The type of glove materials to be used in these situations
include leather, welders gloves, aluminum-backed gloves, and other types of insulated glove
materials.
Careful attention must be given to protecting your hands when working with tools and machinery.
Power tools and machinery must have guards installed or incorporated into their design that
prevent the hands from contacting the point of operation, power train, or other moving parts. To
protect hands from injury due to contact with moving parts, it is important to:

Ensure that guards are always in place and used.

Always lock-out machines or tools and disconnect the power before making repairs.

Treat a machine without a guard as inoperative; and

Do not wear gloves around moving machinery, such as drill presses, mills, lathes, and
grinders.

The following is a guide to the most common types of protective work gloves and the types of
hazards they can guard against:
a. Disposable Gloves. Disposable gloves, usually made of light-weight plastic, can help
guard against mild irritants.
b. Fabric Gloves. Made of cotton or fabric blends are generally used to improve grip when
handling slippery objects. They also help insulate hands from mild heat or cold.
c. Leather Gloves. These gloves are used to guard against injuries from sparks or scraping
against rough surfaces. They are also used in combination with an insulated liner when
working with electricity.

d. Metal Mesh Gloves. These gloves are used to protect hands form accidental cuts and
scratches. They are used most commonly by persons working with cutting tools or other
sharp instruments.
e. Aluminized Gloves. Gloves made of aluminized fabric are designed to insulate hands
from intense heat. These gloves are most commonly used by persons working molten
materials.
f.

Chemical Resistance Gloves. These gloves may be made of rubber, neoprene,

polyvinyl alcohol or vinyl, etc. The gloves protect hands from corrosives, oils, and
solvents. The following table is provided as a guide to the different types of glove
materials and the chemicals they can be used against. When selecting chemical
resistance gloves, be sure to consult the manufacturers recommendations, especially if
the gloved hand will be immersed in the chemical.
Glove Chart
Type

Advantages

Disadvantages

Use Against

Natural
rubber

Low cost, good

physical properties,
dexterity

Poor vs. oils, greases,

organics. Frequently
imported; may be poor
quality

Bases, alcohols, dilute

water solutions; fair vs.
aldehydes, ketones.

Natural
rubber
blends

Low cost, dexterity,

better chemical
resistance than
natural rubber vs.
some chemicals

Physical properties
frequently inferior to
natural rubber

Same as natural rubber

Polyvinyl
chloride
(PVC)

Low cost, very good

physical properties,
medium cost,
medium chemical
resistance

Plasticizers can be
stripped; frequently
imported may be poor
quality

Strong acids and bases,

salts, other water
solutions, alcohols

Neoprene

Medium cost,
medium chemical
resistance, medium
physical properties

NA

Oxidizing acids, anilines,

phenol, glycol ethers

Nitrile

Low cost, excellent

physical properties,
dexterity

Poor vs. benzene,

methylene chloride,
trichloroethylene, many
ketones

Oils, greases, aliphatic

chemicals, xylene,
perchloroethylene,
trichloroethane; fair vs.
toluene

Butyl

Speciality glove,
polar organics

Expensive, poor vs.

hydrocarbons,
chlorinated solvents

Glycol ethers, ketones,

esters

Polyvinyl
alcohol
(PVA)

Specialty glove,
resists a very broad
range of organics,
good physical
properties

Very expensive, water

sensitive, poor vs. light
alcohols

Aliphatics, aromatics,
chlorinated solvents,
ketones (except acetone),
esters, ethers

Fluoro-

Specialty glove,

Extremely expensive,

Aromatics, chlorinated

elastomer
(Viton) *

organic solvents

poor physical
properties, poor vs.
some ketones, esters,
amines

solvents, also aliphatics

and alcohols

Norfoil
(Silver
Shield)

Excellent chemical
resistance

Poor fit, easily

punctures, poor grip,
stiff

Use for Hazmat work

*Trademark of DuPont Dow Elastomers

Glove Type and Chemical Use

*Limited
service

VG= Very
Good
Chemical

G=
Good
Neoprene

F=Fair

P=Poor (not
recommended)

Natural Latex
or Rubber

Butyl

Nitrile Latex

*Acetaldehyde

VG

VG

Acetic acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

*Amyl acetate

Aniline

*Benzaldehyde

*Benzene

Butyl acetate

Butyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Carbon disulfide

*Carbon tetrachloride

Castor oil

VG

*Chlorobenzene

*Chloroform

Chloronaphthalene

Chromic Acid (50%)

VG

VG

VG

VG

Cyclohexanol

VG

*Dibutyl phthalate

Diesel fuel

VG

Diisobutyl ketone

*Acetone
Ammonium hydroxide

Citric acid (10%)

Dimethylformamide

Dioctyl phthalate

VG

Dioxane

VG

Epoxy resins, dry

VG

VG

VG

VG

*Ethyl acetate

Ethyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Ethyl ether

VG

VG

*Ethylene dichloride

Ethylene glycol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Formaldehyde

VG

VG

VG

VG

Neoprene

Natural Latex
or Rubber

Butyl

Nitrile

VG

VG

VG

VG

Freon 11

Freon 12

Freon 21

Freon 22

*Furfural

Gasoline, leaded

VG

Gasoline, unleaded

VG

VG

VG

VG

VG

Chemical
Formic acid

Glycerine
Hexane

Hydrochloric acid

VG

Hydrofluoric acid (48%)

VG

Hydrogen peroxide (30%)

Hydroquinone

Isooctane

VG

Isopropyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Kerosene

VG

VG

Ketones

VG

VG

Lacquer thinners

Lactic acid (85%)

VG

VG

VG

VG

Lauric acid (36%)

VG

VG

VG

Lineoleic acid

VG

Linseed oil

VG

VG

Maleic acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

Methyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Methylamine

Methyl bromide

*Methyl chloride

*Methyl ethyl ketone

VG

*Methyl isobutyl ketone

VG

Methyl methacrylate

VG

Monoethanolamine

VG

VG

VG

Morpholine

VG

VG

VG

Neoprene

Natural Latex
or Rubber

Butyl

Nitrile

Naphthas, aliphatic

VG

VG

Naphthas, aromatic

*Nitric acid

Nitromethane (95.5%)

Chemical
Naphthalene

Nitropropane (95.5%)

Octyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Oleic acid

VG

VG

Oxalic acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

Palmitic acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

Perchloric acid (60%)

VG

Perchloroethylene

Petroleum distillates (naphtha)

VG

Phenol

VG

Phosphoric acid

VG

VG

VG

Potassium hydroxide

VG

VG

VG

VG

Propyl acetate

Propyl alcohol

VG

VG

VG

VG

Propyl alcohol (iso)

VG

VG

VG

VG

Sodium hydroxide

VG

VG

VG

VG

Styrene

Stryene (100%)

Sulfuric acid

VG

VG

VG

VG

Tetrahydrofuran

*Toluene

Toluene diisocyanate

*Trichloroethylene

Triethanolamine

VG

VG

Tung oil

VG

VG

Turpentine

VG

*Xylene

Tannic acid (65%)

*Limited
service

VG= Very
Good

G=
Good

F=Fair

P=Poor (not
recommended)

Reference: Ansell Chemical Resistance Guide, 7th edition

Reviewed April 25, 2013