Section 1 - CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION

PRODUCT NAME

VINYL ISO-BUTYL ETHER

NFPA

PRODUCT USE

Polymers and copolymers used in surgical adhesives, coatings and lacquers; modifier for
alkyd and styrene resins; plasticiser for nitrocellulose and other plastics; intermediate.

SYNONYMS

C6-H12-O, CH2=CHOCH2CH(CH3)2, "isobutyl vinyl ether", IVE

Section 2 - HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION

CANADIAN WHMIS SYMBOLS

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW

RISK

May form explosive peroxides.
HARMFUL - May cause lung damage if swallowed.
Highly flammable.

POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS

ACUTE HEALTH EFFECTS

SWALLOWED

  Accidental ingestion of the material may be damaging to the health of the individual.  Swallowing of the liquid may cause aspiration into the lungs with the risk of chemical pneumonitis; serious consequences may result. (ICSC13733).  Ingestion of alkyl ethers may produce stupor, blurred vision, headache, dizziness and irritation of the nose and throat. Respiratory distress and asphyxia may result.  

EYE

  There is some evidence to suggest that this material can causeeye irritation and damage in some persons.  Irritation of the eyes may produce a heavy secretion of tears (lachrymation).  The liquid produces a high level of eye discomfort and is capable of causing pain and severe conjunctivitis. Corneal injury may develop, with possible permanent impairment of vision, if not promptly and adequately treated.  Eye contact with alkyl ethers (vapor or liquid) may produce irritation,redness and tears.  

SKIN

  Skin contact with the material may damage the health of the individual; systemic effects may result following absorption.  There is some evidence to suggest that this material can cause inflammation of the skin on contact in some persons.  Entry into the blood-stream, through, for example, cuts, abrasions or lesions, may produce systemic injury with harmful effects. Examine the skin prior to the use of the material and ensure that any external damage is suitably protected.  Absorption by skin may readily exceed vapor inhalation exposure. Symptoms for skin absorption are the same as for inhalation.  Alkyl ethers may defat and dehydrate the skin producing dermatoses. Absorption may produce headache, dizziness, and central nervous system depression.  

INHALED

  Inhalation may produce health damage*.  There is some evidence to suggest that this material, if inhaled, can irritate the throat and lungs of some persons.  Inhalation of vapors or aerosols (mists, fumes), generated by the material during the course of normal handling, may be damaging to the health of the individual.  The material is not thought to produce respiratory irritation (as classified using animal models). Nevertheless inhalation of vapors, fumes or aerosols, especially for prolonged periods, may produce respiratory discomfort and occasionally, distress.  Inhalation of high concentrations of gas/vapor causes lung irritation with coughing and nausea, central nervous depression with headache and dizziness, slowing of reflexes, fatigue and inco-ordination.  Central nervous system (CNS) depression may include general discomfort, symptoms of giddiness, headache, dizziness, nausea, anaesthetic effects, slowed reaction time, slurred speech and may progress to unconsciousness. Serious poisonings may result in respiratory depression and may be fatal.  Material is highly volatile and may quickly form a concentrated atmosphere in confined or unventilated areas. Vapor is heavier than air and may displace and replace air in breathing zone, acting as a simple asphyxiant. This may happen with little warning of overexposure.  Inhalation of vapours may cause drowsiness and dizziness. This may be accompanied by narcosis, reduced alertness, loss of reflexes, lack of coordination and vertigo.  Following inhalation, ethers cause lethargy and stupor. Inhaling lower alkyl ethers results in headache, dizziness, weakness, blurred vision, seizures and possible coma. Low blood pressure, slow heartbeat and cardiovascular collapse may be seen with throat irritation, irregular breathing, pulmonary edema and respiratory arrest. Nausea, vomiting and salivation may be seen. There have been deaths reported, and convulsions and paralysis can be found in severe cases. Massive exposures can cause damage to the kidney and liver.  If exposure to highly concentrated solvent atmosphere is prolonged this may lead to narcosis, unconsciousness, even coma and possible death.  

CHRONIC HEALTH EFFECTS

  Limited evidence suggests that repeated or long-term occupational exposure may produce cumulative health effects involving organs or biochemical systems.  Chronic solvent inhalation exposures may result in nervous system impairment and liver and blood changes. [PATTYS].  Chronic exposure to alkyl ethers may result in loss of appetite, excessivethirst, fatigue,  and weight loss.