IPCS INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMME ON CHEMICAL SAFETY
Health and Safety Guide No. 7
tert-BUTANOL
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDE
UNITED NATIONS ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME
INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION, GENEVA 1987
This is a companion volume to Environmental Health Criteria 65:
Butanols - Four Isomers: 1-Butanol, 2-Butanol, tert-Butanol,
Isobutanol
Published by the World Health Organization for the International
Programme on Chemical Safety (a collaborative programme of the United
Nations Environment Programme, the International Labour Organisation,
and the World Health Organization)
This report contains the collective views of an international group of
experts and does not necessarily represent the decisions or the stated
policy of the United Nations Environment Programme, the International
Labour Organisation, or the World Health Organization
ISBN 92 4 154565 8
ISSN 0259-7268
The World Health Organization welcomes requests for permission to
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Applications and enquiries should be addressed to the Office of
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(c) World Health Organization 1987
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CONTENTS
IPCS
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDE FOR tert-BUTANOL
INTRODUCTION
HOW TO USE THE GUIDE
1. PRODUCT IDENTITY AND USES
1.1. Identity
1.2. Physical and chemical properties
1.3. Uses
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1. Exposure to tert-butanol
2.2. Uptake, metabolism, and excretion
2.3. Effects on organisms in the environment
2.4. Effects on animals
2.5. Effects on human beings
3. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
4. HEALTH HAZARDS FOR MAN, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY
ACTION
4.1. Main hazards for man, prevention and protection, first aid
4.2. Advice to physicians
4.3. Health surveillance advice
4.4. Explosion and fire hazards
4.4.1. Explosion hazards
4.4.2. Fire hazards
4.4.3. Fire-extinguishing agents
4.5. Storage
4.6. Transport
4.7. Spillage and disposal
4.7.1. Spillage
4.7.1.1 Small spillage
4.7.1.2 Large spillage
4.7.2. Disposal
5. INTERNATIONAL CHEMICAL SAFETY CARD
6. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
7. CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND STANDARDS
7.1. Exposure limit values
7.2. Labelling, packaging, and transport
INTRODUCTION
The International Programme on Chemical Safety is responsible for the
publication of a series of Environmental Health Criteria documents,
each of which assesses the existing information on the relationship
between exposure to a specific chemical, mixture of chemicals, or
combination of chemicals and physical and biological agents, and man's
health and the integrity of the environment. The documents provide
guidelines for setting exposure limits consistent with the protection
of human health and the environment.
To facilitate the application of these guidelines in national chemical
safety programmes, "Health and Safety Guides" are being prepared,
highlighting the information contained in the documents for those who
need to know the health and environmental issues involved, but not the
scientific details. The Guides include advice on preventive and
protective measures and emergency action.
Review and revision of the information in this Health and Safety Guide
will take place in due course, and the eventual aim is to use
standardized terminology. We should be grateful if you would help by
telling us of any difficulties encountered in using the information in
this guide.
Comments please, addressed to:
The Manager
International Programme on Chemical Safety
Division of Environmental Health
World Health Organization
1211 Geneva 27
Switzerland
HOW TO USE THE GUIDE
All people in the work-place environment should be given the relevant
written information in this book, supplemented by a clear, personal
explanation to ensure that they are fully aware of the dangers and the
current courses of protective and emergency action.
The International Chemical Safety Card should be displayed as directed
and its contents clearly explained to all working personnel. Medical
staff should be fully conversant with the medical information to
ensure they can act rapidly and efficiently in an emergency. Posters
should be used to give impact to basic safety measures.
* * *
Further copies of the Health and Safety Guide and, for those requiring
more detailed scientific information, the relevant Environmental
Health Criteria publication, are available to order.
THE INFORMATION IN THIS GUIDE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS A STARTING POINT
TO A COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAMME
1. PRODUCT IDENTITY AND USES
1.1 Identity
Chemical formula: C4H10O
Chemical structure: CH3
'
CH3 - C - CH3
'
OH
Primary constituent: tert-butanol
Common synonyms: 2-methyl-2-propanol, tert-butyl alcohol
(or tertiary butanol or t-butanol),
trimethyl carbinol, TBA, TMA
CAS registry number: 75-65-0
Conversion factors: 1 mg/m3 = 0.324 ppm
1 ppm = 3.082 mg/m3
1.2 Physical and Chemical Properties
Some physical and chemical properties of tert-butanol are given in
the sample International Chemical Safety Card.
1.3 Uses
tert-Butanol is mainly important for its solvent power. It is used
for the removal of water from substances, in the extraction of drugs,
in the manufacture of perfumes (particularly as an important raw
material for the preparation of artificial musk), in the
recrystallization of chemicals, and as a chemical intermediate (e.g.,
in the manufacture of tert-butyl chloride and of tert-butyl
phenol). It is an authorized denaturant for ethyl alcohol and for
several specially denatured alcohols.
Catalytic rehydration of tert-butanol is carried out to obtain
isobutylene, and it has been patented for use as a gasoline antiknock
agent. Moreover, it is used in the purification of polyolefins, for
the separation of solids from coal liquids, and as blowing agent for
the manufacture of imide group-containing foams from copolymers of
methacrylonitrile and methacrylic acid.
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1 Exposure to tert-Butanol
Human exposure to tert-butanol is mainly occupational. Exposure of
the general population may result from industrial emissions. However,
no data are available on the above levels of exposure.
2.2 Uptake, Metabolism, and Excretion
In animals, tert-butanol is absorbed through the lungs and
gastrointestinal tract. No information is available on dermal
absorption. tert-Butanol is not a substrate for alcohol
dehydrogenase and is slowly metabolized by mammals. Up to 24% of the
dose is eliminated in the urine as the glucuronide, and up to 10% of
the dose can be excreted in the breath and urine as acetone or carbon
dioxide.
2.3 Effects on Organisms in the Environment
Quantitative data relating to levels in the general environment are
not available, but, because tert-butanol is biodegradable,
substantial concentrations are only likely to occur locally when major
spillages occur. tert-Butanol does not bioaccumulate. It is not
toxic for fish, amphibia, crustacea, algae, or bacteria.
2.4 Effects on Animals
The oral LD50 of tert-butanol for the rat is 3.5 g/kg body weight;
therefore, it is slightly toxic according to the classification of
Hodge & Sterner. The primary acute effects observed in animals are
signs of alcoholic intoxication. Its potency for intoxication is
approximately 1.5 times that of ethanol. Animal data regarding skin
and eye irritation are not available. tert-Butanol produces physical
dependence in animals and post-natal effects in offspring exposed in
utero. Pathological effects of repeated exposure of animals are not
available. From the available animal studies, it is not possible to
determine a no-observed-adverse-effect level. tert-Butanol has been
found to be non-mutagenic. No adequate data are available on
carcinogenicity, teratogenicity, or effects on reproduction.
2.5 Effects on Human Beings
In man, tert-butanol is mildly irritating to the skin. No other
effects in man have been reported, and there have been no reports of
poisoning.
3. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
1. The Task Group was unable to make an assessment of the health
risks of tert-butanol for the general population on the basis
of available data; however, it was considered unlikely to pose a
serious hazard, under normal exposure conditions.
2. The Task Group was of the opinion that sufficient data were not
available to establish guidelines for the determination of
occupational exposure limits. In line with good manufacturing
practice, exposure to tert-butanol should be minimized.
3. The ecotoxicological data available indicate that the impact of
background concentrations of tert-butanol on the aquatic
environment can be expected to be minimal.
4. The Task Group noted that there were inadequate animal data to
determine a no-observed-adverse-effect level. Relevant studies
should be conducted so that this can be achieved.
5. Information on residue and emission levels is desirable.
6. Epidemiological studies, including precise exposure data, would
assist in a better assessment of the occupational hazard of
tert-butanol.
From: Environmental Health Criteria 65: Butanols - Four Isomers:
1-Butanol, 2-Butanol, tert-Butanol, Isobutanol
4. HEALTH HAZARDS FOR MAN, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY
ACTION
4.1 Main Hazards for Man, Prevention and Protection, First Aid
tert-Butanol should be considered as a potential skin and eye
irritant. At high concentrations, the vapour can cause narcosis.
The human health hazards associated with certain types of exposure to
tert-butanol, together with preventive and protective measures and
first aid recommendations are listed in the following tables.
GOLDEN RULES
1. Do not smoke, drink, or eat in the work-place.
2. In case of overexposure, the victim should leave, or be removed
from, the contaminated area to fresh air as rapidly as possible.
3. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes and wash with plenty of
water and soap.
4. Flush affected eye(s) with water for at least 15 minutes.
4.2 Advice to Physicians
Treat by observation and supportive measures as indicated by the
patient's condition. Diagnostic tests should include the
identification of the alcohol in blood.
4.3 Health Surveillance Advice
No specific measures are indicated.
4.4 Explosion and Fire Hazards
4.4.1 Explosion hazards
The substance forms explosive mixtures with air.
4.4.2 Fire hazards
tert-Butanol is highly flammable. The vapour is heavier than air and
may travel along the ground; distant ignition is possible. tert-
Butanol reacts strongly with strong oxidizing agents, alkali metals,
and strong mineral acids and may then give rise to a combustible gas
(hydrogen). Keep drums cool by spraying with water.
ROUTE HEALTH HAZARDS PREVENTION AND PROTECTION FIRST AID
SINGLE EXPOSURE
SKIN Slightly irritating Wear protective clothing Remove contaminated clothing;
flush skin with water; if skin
irritation persists, seek
medical attention
EYES Potentially moderately irritating Wear goggles or face shield Flush eyes immediately with
water for at least 15 minutes;
seek medical attention
INHALATION Potentially irritating; high vapour Ensure adequate ventilation Fresh air; if breathing has
concentrations may cause narcosis or suitable respiratory stopped, apply artificial
protection respiration; seek medical
attention immediately
INGESTION Unlikely occupational hazard; it Use normal hygienic practices Do not induce vomiting; obtain
may be absorbed and cause systemic medical attention immediately
effects such as alcohol poisoning
and narcosis
REPEATED EXPOSURE
INHALATION As for single exposure Apply normal hygienic practices
INGESTION No long-term adverse health effects
have been reported in man
4.4.3 Fire-extinguishing agents
For a small fire, use carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder, alcohol-
resistant foam, sand, earth, or water fog. For a large fire, use
alcohol-resistant foam or water fog. Wear self-contained breathing
apparatus.
4.5 Storage
Store away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat.
4.6 Transport
Treat as for flammable substances; otherwise, no special measures are
indicated.
4.7 Spillage and Disposal
4.7.1 Spillage
Extinguish naked flames. Do not smoke. Avoid sparks. Avoid contact
with the skin, eyes, and clothing. Wear rubber gloves, goggles or face
shield, apron, and boots. Avoid breathing the vapour.
4.7.1.1 Small spillage
Absorb the spilt liquid with sand, earth, sawdust, or other suitable
absorbant material. Shovel up and remove all material to safe place
for subsequent disposal. Flush the contaminated area with plenty of
water.
4.7.1.2 Large spillage
Transfer the liquid to a salvage tank if possible. Otherwise, treat as
for a small spillage. Inform local authorities (particularly the fire
service), at once, if the spilt liquid enters the surface water
drains, since a potential explosive hazard will be created.
4.7.2 Disposal
According to recommended disposal practices, wastes, in the form of an
atomized spray, should be introduced into a suitable combustion
chamber and incinerated. Absorbed waste should be buried in an
approved landfill.
5. INTERNATIONAL CHEMICAL SAFETY CARD
This card should be easily available to all health workers concerned
with, and users of, tert-butanol. It should be displayed at, or near,
entrances to areas where there is potential exposure to tert-butanol,
and on processing equipment and containers. The card should be
translated into the appropriate language(s).
All persons potentially exposed to the chemical should also have the
instructions on the chemical safety card clearly explained.
tert-BUTANOL
(2-methyl-2-propanol, trimethyl carbinol, tert-butyl alcohol) [(CH3)3COH]
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
Boiling point (°C) 83 Colourless liquid or white crystals; the vapour is
Melting point (°C) 25 heavier than air and may travel along the ground;
Flash point (°C) 10 distant ignition possible; do not use compressed air
Autoignition temperature (°C) 470 for filling, discharging, or handling reacts
Relative density (water = 1) 0.8 violently with strong oxidizing agents and alkali
Relative vapour density (air = 1) 2.6 metals forming flammable gas (hydrogen); attacks many
Vapour pressure in mbar (20°C) 40 plastics
Solubility in water (g/100 ml at 20°C) ƒ
Explosive limits (vol. % in air) 2.3-8.0
Relative molecular mass 74.1
HAZARDS/SYMPTOMS PREVENTION FIRST AID
INHALATION: Sore throat, coughing, Ensure ventilation, local Fresh air; rest in half upright position; seek
shortness of breath, dullness exhaust, or breathing protection medical attention
SKIN: May be absorbed; redness Wear protective gloves Remove contaminated clothing; rinse skin with plenty
of water or shower, seek medical attention, if
necessary
EYES: Redness, pain, blurred vision Wear safety goggles First rinse with plenty of water; then seek medical
attention
INGESTION: Abdominal pain, vomiting, Rinse mouth; give plenty of water to drink; seek
diarrhoea medical attention or transport to hospital
GENERAL: Alcoholic beverages may
enhance toxic effects
tert-BUTANOL (cont'd)
SPILLAGE STORAGE FIRE AND EXPLOSION
Collect leaking liquid in sealable Fireproof, separated from Highly flammable; vapour-air mixtures are explosive;
containers; wash away remainder with oxidizing agents and alkali no open flames, no sparks, and no smoking; use
large amount of water (extra personal metals closed systems, ventilation, explosion-proof
protection: self-contained breathing electrical equipment, and lighting; in case of fire,
apparatus) keep drums cool by spraying with water; extinguish
fire with powder, alcohol-resistant foam, large
amounts of water halons, or carbon dioxide
WASTE DISPOSAL
National Occupational Exposure UN: 1122
Limit:
National Poison Control Centre:
Adapted from: Handling Chemicals Safely (1980) Published by the Dutch Association of Safety Experts, the Dutch Chemical Industry Association,
and the Dutch Safety Institute, The Hague.
6. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
tert-Butanol should be managed in the environment as a slightly
toxic compound.
Avoid gross contamination of water and soil.
7. REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND STANDARDS
The information given in this paragraph has been extracted from the
International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals (IRPTC) legal
file.
The reader should be aware that regulatory decisions about chemicals
taken in a certain country can only be fully understood in the
framework of the legislation of that country. A full reference to the
original national document from which the information was extracted
can be obtained from the IRPTCa.
When no effective date appears in the IRPTC legal file, the year of
the reference from which the data are taken is shown, indicated by
(r).
7.1 Exposure Limit Values
For some exposure limit values, see the following table
7.2 Labelling, Packaging, and Transport
tert-Butanol is classified as a flammable liquid (Hazard Class 3) by
the United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous
Goods, and as a flammable liquid by the International Maritime
Organization (Hazard Class 3.2). The following symbol should be used:
a International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals, Palais des
Nations, 1211 Geneva 10, Switzerland (Telephone No. 988400-985850).
SOME EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES
MEDIUM SPECIFICATION COUNTRY/ EXPOSURE LIMIT DESCRIPTION VALUE EFFECTIVE
ORGANIZATION DATE
AIR Occupational Australia Threshold limit value (TLV) 1983 (r)
- Time-weighted average 300 mg/m3
Belgium Threshold limit value (TLV) 300 mg/m3
German Democratic Republic Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1983 (r)
- Time-weighted average 200 mg/m3
- Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 400 mg/m3
Germany, Federal Republic of Maximum work-site concentration (MAK) 1985 (r)
- 8-h time-weighted average 300 mg/m3
- Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 600 mg/m3
(30 min, 4 x per shift) (average value)
Italy Threshold limit value (TLV) 250 mg/m3
Netherlands Maximum limit 1985 (r)
- Time-weighted average 300 mg/m3
Sweden Hygienic limit value (HLV) 1985
- One-day time-weighted average HLV 150 mg/m3a
- Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 250 mg/m3
(15-min time-weighted average)
Switzerland Maximum work-site concentration (MAK) 1984 (r)
- Time-weighted average 300 mg/m3
United Kingdom Recommended limit 1985 (r)
- 8-h time-weighted average 300 mg/m3
- Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 450 mg/m3
(10-min time-weighted average)
USA (ACGIH)b Threshold limit value (TLV) 1984 (r)
- Time-weighted average 300 mg/m3
- Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 450 mg/m3
USA (OSHA) Permissible exposure limit (PEL) 1981 (r)
- Time-weighted average 300 mg/m3
Yugoslavia Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1971 (r)
- Time-weighted average 200 mg/m3
SOME EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES (cont'd)
MEDIUM SPECIFICATION COUNTRY/ EXPOSURE LIMIT DESCRIPTION VALUE EFFECTIVE
ORGANIZATION DATE
AIR Ambient USSR Preliminary safety limit (PSL) 1983
- One time per day 0.3 mg/m3
WATER Surface USSR Maximum allowable concentration (MAC) 1.0 mg/litre 1983
a Absorption through the skin is indicated as a potentially hazardous route in the regulatory documents of Sweden.
a Values recommended by the American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists.