Common Name: 2,4-Dinitrotoluene
CAS Number: 121-14-2
DOT Number: UN 2038/UN 1600
Date: October 30, 1986
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HAZARD SUMMARY
* 2,4-Dinitrotoluene can affect you when breathed and by passing
through skin.
* It should be handled as a CARCINOGEN WITH EXTREME CAUTION.
* Exposure can interfere with the ability of the blood to carry
oxygen (methemoglobinemia) causing headaches, fatigue,
dizziness, and blue color of the skin.
* Repeated or prolonged exposure can cause low blood count and
liver damage.
* Contact with molten 2,4-Dinitrotoluene or hot fumes can cause
severe skin and eye burns.
* 2,4-Dinitrotoluene is a HIGHLY REACTIVE CHEMICAL and is a
DANGEROUS EXPLOSION HAZARD.
IDENTIFICATION
2,4-Dinitrotoluene is a yellow crystalline solid often found in the
molten state. It is used in making plastics and explosives.
REASON FOR CITATION
* 2,4-Dinitrotoluene is on the RTK Hazardous Substance List
because it is regulated by OSHA and cited by ACGIH, DOT and
DEP.
* This chemical is on the Special Health Hazard Substance List
because it is a CARCINOGEN, a MUTAGEN, and is REACTIVE.
* Definitions are attached.
HOW TO DETERMINE IF YOU ARE BEING EXPOSED
* Exposure to hazardous substances should be routinely
evaluated. This may include collecting personal and area air
samples. You can obtain copies of sampling results from your
employer. You have a legal right to this information under
OSHA 1910.20.
* If you think you are experiencing any work related health
problems, see a doctor trained to recognize occupational
diseases. Take this Fact Sheet with you.
WORKPLACE EXPOSURE LIMITS
OSHA: The legal airborne permissible exposure limit (PEL) is
1.5 mg/m3 averaged over an 8 hour workshift.
ACGIH: The recommended airborne exposure limit is 1.5 mg/m3
averaged over an 8 hour workshift.
* 2,4-Dinitrotoluene may be a CARCINOGEN in humans. There may be
no safe level of exposure to a carcinogen, so all contact
should be reduced to the lowest possible level.
* The above exposure limits are for air levels only. When skin
contact also occurs, you may be overexposed, even though air
levels are less than the limits listed above
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 2,4-
Dinitrotoluene 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 2,4-Dinitrotoluene to potentially exposed workers.
This Fact Sheet is a summary source of information of all potential
and most severe health hazards that may result from exposure.
Duration of exposure, concentration of the substance and other
factors will affect your susceptibility to any of the potential
effects described below.
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HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION
Acute Health Effects
The following acute (short term) health effects may occur
immediately or shortly after exposure to 2,4-Dinitrotoluene:
* Contact with molten 2,4-Dinitrotoluene or hot fumes can cause
severe skin and eye burns. Permanent eye damage may result.
* Exposure can interfere with the ability of the blood to carry
oxygen (methemoglobinemia). This can cause symptoms of
weakness, dizziness, headaches, and blue coloration of the
lips and nose.
* Higher exposures can cause nausea, vomiting, and fatigue,
followed by shortness of breath, rapid or irregular heartbeat,
unconsciousness, and death. The onset of these symptoms may be
delayed for several hours after exposure. These symptoms can
occur from skin contact.
Chronic Health Effects
The following chronic (long term) health effects can occur at some
time after exposure to 2,4-Dinitrotoluene and can last for months
or years:
Cancer Hazard
* 2,4-Dinitrotoluene may be a CANCER CAUSING AGENT in humans
since it has been shown to cause liver cancer in animals.
* Many scientists believe there is no safe level of exposure to
a cancer causing agent. Such substances may also have the
potential for causing reproductive damage in humans.
Reproductive Hazard
* According to the information presently available to the New
Jersey Department of Health, 2,4-Dinitrotoluene has not been
tested for its ability to adversely affect reproduction.
Other Long Term Effects
* 2,4-Dinitrotoluene can damage the liver.
* Repeated or prolonged exposures may cause low blood count
(anemia).
MEDICAL
Medical Testing
Before beginning employment and at regular times after that, the
following are recommended:
* Complete blood count.
* Urinary Dinitrotoluene level.
* Liver function tests.
If symptoms develop or overexposure is suspected, the following may
be useful:
* Methemoglobin level.
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
* Drinking alcohol (wine, liquor, or beer) can make the effects
of overexposure to 2,4-Dinitrotoluene worse.
* Because more than light alcohol consumption can cause liver
damage, drinking alcohol can increase the liver damage caused
by 2,4-Dinitrotoluene.
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 transfer 2,4-Dinitrotoluene from
drums or other storage containers to process containers.
* Specific engineering controls are recommended for this
chemical by NIOSH. Current Intelligence Bulletin #44,
Dinitrotoluenes (Publication #85 109).
In addition, the following controls are recommended:
* Where possible, automatically transfer 2,4-Dinitrotoluene from
drums or other storage containers to process containers.
* Specific engineering controls are recommended for this
chemical by NIOSH. Current Intelligence Bulletin #44,
Dinitrotoluenes (Publication #85 109).
Good WORK PRACTICES can help to reduce hazardous exposures. The
following work practices are recommended:
* Workers whose clothing has been contaminated by 2,4-
Dinitrotoluene 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 2,4-
Dinitrotoluene.
* Eye wash fountains should be provided in the immediate work
area for emergency use.
* If there is the possibility of skin exposure, emergency shower
facilities should be provided.
* On skin contact with 2,4-Dinitrotoluene, immediately wash or
shower to remove the chemical.
* Do not eat, smoke, or drink where 2,4-Dinitrotoluene is
handled, processed, or stored, since the chemical can be
swallowed. Wash hands carefully before eating or smoking.
* Do not dry sweep for cleanup. Use a vacuum. A high efficiency
particulate absolute (HEPA) filter should be used, not a
standard shop vacuum.
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 2,4-Dinitrotoluene. Wear protective
gloves and clothing. Safety equipment suppliers/ manufacturers
can provide recommendations on the most protective glove/
clothing material for your operation.
* All protective clothing (suits, gloves, footwear, headgear)
should be clean, available each day, and put on before work.
* NIOSH recommends Butyl Rubber as a protective material.
Eye Protection
* Wear gas proof goggles and a face shield when working with
molten 2,4-Dinitrotoluene.
* Wear dust proof goggles when working with powders or dust,
unless full face piece 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 1.5 mg/m3, 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 200 mg/m3 is immediately dangerous to life and
health. If the possibility of exposures above 200 mg/m3
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 2,4-Dinitrotoluene you should be trained
on its proper handling and storage.
* 2,4-Dinitrotoluene must be stored to avoid contact with STRONG
OXIDIZERS, such as CHLORINE, CHLORINE DIOXIDE, BROMINE,
NITRATES, and PERMANGANATES; CAUSTICS, such as SODIUM
HYDROXIDE and POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE; and CHEMICALLY ACTIVE
METALS, such as TIN or ZINC, since violent reactions occur.
Contact with STRONG OXIDIZERS can cause fire or explosions.
Also, striking it or dropping it may cause detonation and
explosion.
* Store in tightly closed containers in a cool well ventilated
area away from HEAT (temperatures above 482oF).
* Sources of ignition such as smoking and open flames are
prohibited where 2,4-Dinitrotoluene is used, handled, or
stored in a manner that could create a potential fire or
explosion hazard.
* Use only non sparking tools and equipment, especially when
opening and closing containers of 2,4-Dinitrotoluene.
* Wherever 2,4-Dinitrotoluene is used, handled, manufactured, or
stored, use explosion proof electrical equipment and fittings.
Common Name: 2,4-Dinitrotoluene
DOT Number: UN 2038/UN 1600
DOT Emergency Guide code: 56/56
CAS Number: 121-14-2
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NJ DOH Hazard rating
FLAMMABILITY 1
REACTIVITY 3
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COMBUSTIBLE/REACTIVE
POISONOUS GAS IS PRODUCED IN FIRE
CONTAINERS MAY EXPLODE IN FIRE
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Hazard Rating Key: 0=minimal; 1=slight; 2=moderate; 3=serious;
4=severe
FIRE HAZARDS
* Molten 2,4-Dinitrotoluene is COMBUSTIBLE. It may burn, but
does not readily ignite.
* Use extreme caution when fighting a fire, since 2,4-
Dinitrotoluene could explode.
* Use dry chemical, CO2, or water spray extinguishers. If the
fire is advanced, evacuate the area.
* POISONOUS GAS IS PRODUCED IN FIRE.
* If employees are expected to fight fires, they must be trained
and equipped as stated in OSHA 1910.156.
SPILLS AND EMERGENCIES
If 2,4-Dinitrotoluene is spilled, take the following steps:
* Restrict persons not wearing protective equipment from area of
spill until cleanup is complete.
* Remove all ignition sources.
* Ventilate area of spill.
* Absorb liquids in vermiculite, dry sand, earth, or a similar
material and deposit in sealed containers.
* Collect powdered material in the most convenient and safe
manner and deposit in sealed containers.
* It may be necessary to contain and dispose of 2,4-
Dinitrotoluene as a HAZARDOUS WASTE. Contact your State
Environmental Program for specific recommendations.
==========================================
FOR LARGE SPILLS AND FIRES immediately call your 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. Seek
medical attention immediately.
Skin Contact
* Quickly remove contaminated clothing. Immediately wash area
with large amounts of soap and water. Seek medical attention
immediately.
If Symptoms Develop
* 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.
PHYSICAL DATA
Vapor Pressure: 1 mm Hg at 68oF
Flash Point: 404oF
Water Solubility: Slightly soluble
OTHER COMMONLY USED NAMES
Chemical Name:
Benzene, 1 Methyl 2,4-Dinitro
Other Names and Formulations:
2,4-DNT; DNT; Dinitrotoluol; NCI CO1865.
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Not intended to be copied and sold for commercial purposes.
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NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
Right to Know Program
CN 368, Trenton, NJ 08625 0368
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ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
2.4-Dinitrotoluene is a manufactured chemical used as an ingredient
in explosives, a stabilizer in the manufacture of smokeless powder,
a raw material for dyestuffs, and for urethane polymers.
2,4-Dinitrotoluene may enter the environment from industrial
discharges.
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.
2,4-Dinitrotoluene has moderate acute toxicity to aquatic life.
Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the
short-term effects of 2,4-Dinitrotoluene 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.
2,4-Dinitrotoluene has moderate chronic toxicity to aquatic life.
Insufficient data are available to evaluate or predict the
long-term effects of 2,4-dinitrotoluene to plants, birds, or land
animals.
WATER SOLUBILITY
2,4-Dinitrotoluene is moderately soluble in water. Concentrations
of between 1 to 1,000 milligrams will mix with a liter of water.
DISTRIBUTION AND PERSISTENCE IN THE ENVIRONMENT
2,4-dinitrotoluene 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 2,4-dinitrotoluene will eventually end up
in water; about 0.75%, respectively, will end up in terrestrial
soil and aquatic sediments.
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 2,4-dinitrotoluene found in fish tissues is
expected to be somewhat higher than the average concentration of
2,4-dinitrotoluene in the water from which the fish was taken.
SUPPORT DOCUMENT: AQUIRE Database, ERL-Duluth, U.S. EPA.
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