M10.2 :MSDS and ToxNet

The MSDS sheet that I am looking at is for Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol 91% USP. I am currently a Pharmacy Intern at CVS where I got this MSDS sheet.
 
  • What are the health risks associated with this chemical?
Eyes
Irritating, and may injure eye tissue if not removed promptly.
Skin
Frequent or prolonged contact may irritate the skin and cause a skin rash (dermatitis).
Inhalation
Exposure to vapors may cause the following effects: Headaches. Dizziness. Central nervous system effects. Pulmonary edema. Slightly irritating to eyes and respiratory tract. Gas, vapor, mist, or dust concentrations may be harmful if inhaled. High concentrations may be fatal.
Ingestion
May cause chemical pneumonitis if aspirated into lungs. Single dose toxicity is low.

  • Is the chemical a carcinogen?
The chemical is not a carcinogen.
  • What personal protective equipment or special precautions should be taken when working with this chemical?
Eye Protection
ANSI approved safety glasses or splash goggles with face shield are recommended.
Protective Gloves
The following glove(s) are recommended to prevent prolonged or repeated contact: Chemical resistant gloves.
Other Protective Clothing
Where contact is likely, wear chemical-resistant gloves, a chemical suit, rubber boots, and chemical safety goggles plus a face shield.
Ventilation
Provide mechanical exhaust ventilation. Use explosion-proof ventilation equipment.
Respiratory Protection
Wear a NIOSH approved respirator with chemical/mechanical filters for chemical
  • If this is a chemical found in your workplace, what training/education were you given about any risks associated with this chemical?
This chemical is found in my workplace as a product for sale,we do use it for cleaning cuts and wounds and for sanitation. We were given a computerized module with a post test on all hazardous chemicals in our pharmacy and learn how to handle them.

The ToxNet website had similar information, there were more details on how it may affect children, very thorough into what will happen in the body, such as how our body will metabolize and excrete it out of our body.I think there is more information on ToxNet, but the MSDS sheet is an adequate tool with the most important and need to know information for the workplace. But if a six grader or younger was to read it, there might be some words that they may not understand, such as what aspirated mean. Therefore if it's purpose is gear towards a young audience then the wording should be more layman's terms.


Comments

  1. UnknownApril 1, 2018 at 6:47 AM

    Thank you for sharing this information. I am glad to know that isopropyl is not a carcinogen. I am probably the only one, but I have always wondered whether it caused cancer or something else. Thank you for clearing that up!

    ReplyDelete
  2. UnknownApril 1, 2018 at 12:31 PM

    Hi Feng,
    I know that isopropyl alcohol is used often to clean injury. It is interesting to see that there are so many protective equipment we must wear if this is the case. Since the product is for sale, I wonder what kind of recommendations are in place for the consumer.

    ReplyDelete

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