Common Name: 2-Methoxyethanol
CAS Number: 109-86-4
DOT Number: UN 1188
Date: January 31, 1986
-----------------------------------------
HAZARD SUMMARY
* 2-Methoxyethanol can affect you when breathed in and by
passing through your skin.
* 2-Methoxyethanol should be handled as a TERATOGEN WITH EXTREME
CAUTION.
* 2-Methoxyethanol can cause reproductive damage. Handle with
extreme caution.
* Prolonged exposure causes low blood count (anemia) and other
blood abnormalities.
* Exposure can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and
lungs.
* Repeated exposure can cause headaches, weakness, drowsiness,
personality changes and tremors.
* Exposure can damage the kidneys.
IDENTIFICATION
2-Methoxyethanol is a common colorless solvent for resins,
lacquers, paints, and varnishes. It can also be found in cleaning
compounds, cosmetics and is used as a fuel deicer additive.
REASON FOR CITATION
* 2-Methoxyethanol is on the Hazardous Substance List because it
is cited by ACGIH, DOT and NFPA.
* Definitions are attached.
HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOU ARE BEING EXPOSED
* Exposure to hazardous substances should be routinely
evaluated. This may include collecting air samples. Under OSHA
1910.20, you have a legal right to obtain copies of sampling
results from your employer. If you think you are experiencing
any workrelated health problems, see a doctor trained to
recognize occupational diseases. Take this Fact Sheet with
you.
* ODOR THRESHOLD = 2.3 ppm.
* The odor threshold only serves as a warning of exposure. Not
smelling it does not mean you are not being exposed.
WORKPLACE EXPOSURE LIMITS
OSHA: The legal airborne permissible exposure limit (PEL) is
25 ppm averaged over an 8 hour workshift.
ACGIH: The recommended airborne exposure limit is 5 ppm
averaged over an 8 hour workshift.
* NIOSH recommends that exposure to 2-Methoxyethanol be reduced
to the lowest possible level.
* 2-Methoxyethanol may be a teratogen in humans. All contact
with this chemical should be reduced to the lowest possible
level.
WAYS OF REDUCING EXPOSURE
* Where possible, enclose operations and use local exhaust
ventilation at the site of chemical release. If local exhaust
ventilation or enclosure is not used, respirators should be
worn.
* Wear protective work clothing.
* Wash thoroughly immediately after exposure to 2-Methoxyethanol
and at the end of the workshift.
* Post hazard and warning information in the work area. In
addition, as part of an ongoing education and training effort,
communicate all information on the health and safety hazards
of 2-Methoxyethanol to potentially exposed workers.
This Fact Sheet is a summary source of information for workers,
employers, and community residents. Health professionals may also
find it useful. If this substance is part of a mixture, this Fact
Sheet should be used along with the manufacturer supplied Material
Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
------------------------------------------
HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION
Acute Health Effects
The following acute (short term) health effects may occur
immediately or shortly after exposure to 2-Methoxyethanol:
* Exposure can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and
lungs with cough and/or shortness of breath.
* Higher exposure may cause a buildup of fluid in the lungs
(pulmonary edema). This can cause death.
* Very high levels can cause you to become dizzy, lightheaded
and to pass out.
Chronic Health Effects
The following chronic (long term) health effects can occur at some
time after exposure to 2-Methoxyethanol and can last for months or
years:
Cancer Hazard
* According to the information presently available to the New
Jersey Department of Health, 2-Methoxyethanol has not been
tested for its ability to cause cancer in animals.
Reproductive Hazard
* 2-Methoxyethanol may be a TERATOGEN in humans since it has
been shown to be a teratogen in animals.
* It may damage the testes (male reproductive glands) and also
decrease fertility in males.
Other Long Term Effects
* Prolonged exposure can cause low blood count (anemia) and
other blood abnormalities.
* Repeated exposure can cause headaches, weakness, drowsiness,
personality changes, sleepiness, loss of weight, upset
stomach, and tremors.
* 2-Methoxyethanol can damage the kidneys.
* Very irritating substances may affect the lungs. It is not
known whether 2-Methoxyethanol causes lung damage.
MEDICAL
Medical Testing
For those with frequent or potentially high exposure (half the TLV
or greater, or significant skin contact), the following are
recommended before beginning work and at regular times after that:
* Lung function tests.
* Complete blood count.
* Kidney function tests.
If symptoms develop or overexposure is suspected, the following may
be useful:
* Consider chest x ray after acute overexposure.
* Exam of the nervous system.
Any evaluation should include a careful history of past and present
symptoms with an exam. Medical tests that look for damage already
done are not a substitute for controlling exposure. Request copies
of your medical testing. You have a legal right to this information
under OSHA 1910.20.
Mixed Exposures
Because smoking can cause heart disease, as well as lung cancer,
emphysema, and other respiratory problems, it may worsen
respiratory conditions caused by chemical exposure. Even if you
have smoked for a long time, stopping now will reduce your risk of
developing health problems.
WORKPLACE CONTROLS AND PRACTICES
Unless a less toxic chemical can be substituted for a hazardous
substance, ENGINEERING CONTROLS are the most effective way of
reducing exposure. The best protection is to enclose operations
and/or provide local exhaust ventilation at the site of chemical
release. Isolating operations can also reduce exposure. Using
respirators or protective equipment is less effective than the
controls mentioned above, but is sometimes necessary.
In evaluating the controls present in your workplace, consider: (1)
how hazardous the substance is, (2) how much of the substance is
released into the workplace, and (3) whether harmful skin or eye
contact could occur. Special controls should be in place for highly
toxic chemicals or when significant skin, eye, or breathing
exposures are possible.
In addition, the following controls are recommended:
* Where possible, automatically pump liquid 2-Methoxyethanol
from drums or other storage containers to process containers.
* Specific engineering controls are recommended for this
chemical by NIOSH. Refer to the NIOSH criteria document: NIOSH
Current Intelligence Bulletin 39, on Glycol Ethers, # 83 112.
Good WORK PRACTICES can help to reduce hazardous exposures. The
following work practices are recommended:
* Workers whose clothing has been contaminated by 2-
Methoxyethanol should change into clean clothing promptly.
* Do not take contaminated work clothes home. Family members
could be exposed.
* Contaminated work clothes should be laundered by individuals
who have been informed of the hazards of exposure to 2-
Methoxyethanol.
* If there is the possibility of skin exposure, emergency shower
facilities should be provided.
* On skin contact with 2-Methoxyethanol, immediately wash or
shower to remove the chemical. At the end of the work shift,
wash any areas of the body that may have contacted 2-
Methoxyethanol, whether or not known skin contact has
occurred.
* Do not eat, smoke, or drink where 2-Methoxyethanol is handled,
processed, or stored, since the chemical can be swallowed.
Wash hands carefully before eating or smoking.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
WORKPLACE CONTROLS ARE BETTER THAN PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT.
However, for some jobs (such as outside work, confined space entry,
jobs done only once in a while, or jobs done while workplace
controls are being installed), personal protective equipment may be
appropriate.
The following recommendations are only guidelines and may not apply
to every situation.
Clothing
* Avoid skin contact with 2-Methoxyethanol. Wear solvent
resistant gloves and clothing. Safety equipment
suppliers/manufacturers can provide recommendations on the
most protective glove/ clothing material for your operation.
* Neoprene is recommended as a protective material by
manufacturers.
* All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear)
should be clean, available each day, and put on before work.
Eye Protection
* Wear splash proof chemical goggles and face shield when
working with liquid, unless full facepiece respiratory
protection is worn.
Respiratory Protection
IMPROPER USE OF RESPIRATORS IS DANGEROUS. Such equipment should
only be used if the employer has a written program that takes into
account workplace conditions, requirements for worker training,
respirator fit testing, and medical exams, as described in OSHA
1910.134.
* Where the potential exists for exposures over 5 ppm, use a
MSHA/NIOSH approved supplied air respirator with a full
facepiece operated in the positive pressure mode or with a
full facepiece, hood, or helmet in the continuous flow mode,
or use a MSHA/NIOSH approved self contained breathing
apparatus with a full facepiece operated in pressure demand or
other positive pressure mode.
* Exposure to 2,000 ppm is immediately dangerous to life and
health. If the possibility of exposures above 2,000 ppm
exists, use a MSHA/NIOSH approved self contained breathing
apparatus with a full facepiece operated in continuous flow or
other positive pressure mode.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
* Prior to working with 2-Methoxyethanol you should be trained
on its proper handling and storage.
* 2-Methoxyethanol must be stored to avoid contact with
OXIDIZERS (such as PERCHLORATES, PEROXIDES, PERMANGANATES,
CHLORATES, and NITRATES) and STRONG CAUSTICS since violent
reactions occur.
* Sources of ignition such as smoking and open flames are
prohibited where 2-Methoxyethanol is used, handled, or stored
in a manner that could create a potential fire or explosion
hazard.
* Wherever 2-Methoxyethanol is used, handled, manufactured, or
stored, use explosion proof electrical equipment and fittings.
Common Name: 2-Methoxyethanol
DOT Number: UN 1188
DOT Emergency Guide code: 26
CAS Number: 109-86-4
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NJ DOH Hazard rating
FLAMMABILITY 2
REACTIVITY 0
----------------------------------------
COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID
POISONOUS GAS IS PRODUCED IN FIRE
CONTAINERS MAY EXPLODE IN FIRE
----------------------------------------
Hazard Rating Key: 0=minimal; 1=slight; 2=moderate; 3=serious;
4=severe
FIRE HAZARDS
* 2-Methoxyethanol is a COMBUSTIBLE LIQUID.
* POISONOUS GAS IS PRODUCED IN FIRE.
* CONTAINERS MAY EXPLODE IN FIRE.
* Use dry chemical, CO2, or alcohol foam extinguishers.
* Vapors may travel to sources of ignition and flash back.
* Vapor explosion hazard.
* If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained
and equipped as stated in OSHA 1910.156.
SPILLS AND EMERGENCIES
If 2-Methoxyethanol is spilled or leaked, take the following steps:
* Restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of
spill or leak until cleanup is complete.
* Remove all ignition sources.
* Ventilate area of spill or leak.
* Use water spray to reduce vapors.
* Keep 2-Methoxyethanol out of a confined space, such as a
sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion, unless the
sewer is designed to prevent the buildup of explosive
concentrations.
* It may be necessary to contain and dispose of 2-Methoxyethanol
as a HAZARDOUS WASTE. Contact your state Environmental Program
for specific recommendations.
==========================================
FOR LARGE SPILLS AND FIRES immediately call your local fire
department.
==========================================
FIRST AID
POISON INFORMATION
Eye Contact
* Immediately flush with large amounts of water for at least 15
minutes, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids.
Skin Contact
* Quickly remove contaminated clothing. Immediately wash area
with large amounts of water. Seek medical attention.
Breathing
* Remove the person from exposure.
* Begin rescue breathing if breathing has stopped and CPR if
heart action has stopped.
* Transfer promptly to a medical facility.
* Medical observation is recommended for 24 to 48 hours after
breathing overexposure, as pulmonary edema may be delayed.
PHYSICAL DATA
Vapor Pressure: 6 mm Hg at 68oF
Flash Point: 107oF
Water Solubility: Miscible
OTHER COMMONLY USED NAMES
Chemical Name:
2-Methoxyethanol
Other Names and Formulations:
Ethylene Glycol Mono Methyl Ether; EGME; MECS; Methyl Cellosolve;
Methyl Glycol; Poly Solv EM.
------------------------------------------
Not intended to be copied and sold for commercial purposes.
------------------------------------------
NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Right to Know Program
CN 368, Trenton, NJ 08625 0368
------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------
ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
2-Methoxyethanol is a colorless, flammable liquid used as a solvent
to dissolve gums and resins. It may enter the environment from
industrial discharges or spills.
ACUTE (SHORT-TERM) ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS
Acute toxic effects may include the death of animals, birds, or
fish, and death or low growth rate in plants. Acute effects are
seen two to four days after animals or plants come in contact with
a toxic chemical substance.
2-Methoxyethanol has slight acute toxicity to aquatic life.
Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the short-
term effects of 2-methoxyethanol to plants, birds, or land animals.
CHRONIC (LONG-TERM) ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS
Chronic toxic effects may include shortened lifespan, reproductive
problems, lower fertility, and changes in appearance or behavior.
Chronic effects can be seen long after first exposure(s) to a toxic
chemical.
2-Methoxyethanol has slight chronic toxicity to aquatic life.
Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the long-
term effects of 2-methoxyethanol to plants, birds, or land animals.
WATER SOLUBILITY
2-Methoxyethanol is highly soluble in water. Concentrations of
1,000 milligrams and more will mix with a liter of water.
DISTRIBUTION AND PERSISTENCE IN THE ENVIRONMENT
2-Methoxyethanol is slightly persistent in water, with a half-life
of between 2 to 20 days. The half-life of a pollutant is the
amount of time it takes for one-half of the chemical to be
degraded. About 98.5% of 2-methoxyethanol will eventually end up
in water; the rest will end up in the air.
BIOACCUMULATION IN AQUATIC ORGANISMS
Some substances increase in concentration, or bioaccumulate, in
living organisms as they breathe contaminated air, drink
contaminated water, or eat contaminated food. These chemicals can
become concentrated in the tissues and internal organs of animals
and humans.
The concentration of 2-methoxyethanol found in fish tissues is
expected to be about the same as the average concentration of 2-
methoxyethanol in the water from which the fish was taken.
SUPPORT DOCUMENT: AQUIRE Database, ERL-Duluth, U.S. EPA.
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