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California Freight Safety Manual and IIPP b. Organic Solvents Characteristics: Usually clear, rapidly evaporating petroleum or alcohol based solvents. These solvents are usually highly flammable and may or may not mix with water. They usually have an alcohol or oil-like odor and are used in a variety degreasing, painting and stripping operations. Examples of organic solvents are toluene, xylene, methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), acetone, and alcohols. Health Hazards: Organic solvents evaporate very quickly and pose a great fire hazard. Because of this rapid evaporation and the natural penetrating nature of solvents, these materials can enter the body very rapidly through inhalation into the respiratory tract, and absorption through the skin and eyes. Exposures of these types may, in some instances, lead to skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory irritation. Solvents eventually enter the blood stream, and in cases of overexposure, may produce a variety of effects including nausea, headache, and dizziness. In very high concentrations, they may pose immediate threat to life and health. Chronic, repeated overexposure to organic solvents has been documented to produce adverse effects on the heart, lungs, central nervous system, liver, blood, and skin. They products may be harmful or fatal if swallowed. Some solvents may produce allergic reactions in sensitive people. Personal Protective Equipment/Handling: It is important to minimize your exposure to solvents. For example, avoid skin contact by wearing non-porous gloves. Cotton or leather gloves should never be used while working with solvents because they absorb the solvent and allow it to reach your skin. If you can't wear gloves in your particular job, find other ways to avoid contact with the solvents. For example, use tongs to hold parts while cleaning them with solvents. Never wash your hands in a solvent - use soap or a waterless hand cleaner. Barrier creams may provide additional protection. Use ventilation systems when possible and avoid breathing solvent vapors. If your job requires it, wear a respirator. Use air-supplying respirators in areas of high concentrations. Protect your eyes with safety glasses or goggles. Avoid strong oxidizing agents. Ground and bond all containers when pouring or transferring chemicals. Emergency/Special: In the event of eye contact flush eyes for 15 minutes with water. Avoid prolonged skin contact with any solvents. Wash skin with soap and water. Remove soaked clothing and wash before reuse. If ingested, seek medical help immediately - do not induce vomiting. If inhaled, move victim to fresh air and, if necessary, give artificial respiration. In the event of a spill, eliminate ignition sources, evacuate the area, and contact the fire department. Avoid drainage into water or sewage system. 2. Adhesives Characteristics: Adhesives are typically made up of resins composed of two reaction components: 1) the curing agent (hardener, catalyst, accelerator, activator or setting Revised January 1,2019 Page 77