Methanol

methanol Safety Information

Methanol, is a clear colorless liquid made primarily from natural gas. It represents a low risk to the environment because it is soluble in water and readily biodegradable. Methanol  looks like water and has no discernable odor in low
concentrations. In addition, the methanol production process is very clean, producing few solid or liquid wastes. However, Methanol is flammable. Methanol is volatile and can be toxic and must be handled and transported with care at all times.

While methanol does have risks associated with
it, they can be managed. To minimize the effect(s)
on people, the environment or the community:
 

Methanol “Flammable Liquids” Class 3.2
(Primary Class)
methanol “Toxic Substances” Class 6.1
( Secondary Class)
Methanol United Nations Number (UN): 1230

Although there are hazards associated with methanol, they can be managed to minimize potential risks to people and the environment during the life cycle of methanol, which includes:

Methanol is a basic chemical building block for other products such as acetic acid and formaldehyde. It is used in numerous applications including plastics, paints, glues and pharmaceuticals. Methanol is also being used increasingly in new applications, such as wastewater denitrification, biodiesel, gasoline blends and fuel cells.

Effects of Methanol on Health
short-term effects
Swallowing even small amounts of methanol can cause:
• Nausea
• Headache
• Visual disturbances
or blindness
Inhalation can cause:
• Headaches
• Sleepiness
• Nausea
long-term effects
Repeated exposure by inhalation or absorption can cause:
• Systemic poisoning
• Brain disorders
• Impaired vision and blindness made simple
• Abdominal pain
• Possibly death
• Digestive and visual disturbances
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness
For more information, please First Aid In all cases of exposure seek medical attention.
Inhalation
• Move person to location with fresh air
• Restore or assist breathing
Skin Exposure
• Remove contaminated clothing
• Wash exposed skin with large amounts of running water
Eye Exposure
• Flush immediately (with gently running water for a
minimum of 15 minutes)
Ingestion
• DO NOT induce vomiting
• Symptoms may be delayed 18–24 hours

Fire Extinguishing Methods and Dangers
Methanol burns with a clear flame and without smoke, so it is difficult to see in daylight. Methanol will still burn at four parts of water to one part of methanol.
Extinguish with:
• Water—a minimum five parts water to one part
methanol
• Foam—alcohol resistant fire fighting foam
• Dry powder extinguisher
Byproducts of methanol combustion
• Mostly carbon dioxide and water
• May contain formaldehyde and carbon monoxide
Environmental Considerations
• Methanol is biodegradable in low concentrations.
• Methanol is soluble in water.
• Do not dispose of methanol in the environment.
• Impact is confined to the immediate area of the release.
• There is an adverse effect on water life—if the release is large enough.
• Contain the release, dispose of methanol safely.
• Stay upwind of a release or fire.
• Evacuate the area where the atmosphere is above acceptable limits, i.e., 200 ppm methanol in air, or if you can smell a faint odor of alcohol.

Disclaimer: The implementation of the information contained herein is at the
sole discretion of the individual. Please check with your local regulatory authority
for further advice and safety requirements.

Methanol Safety information

Click here for methanol MSDS

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