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Formalin (as formaldehyde)

Synonyms & Trade Names
Formaldehyde solution [Note: Formalin is an aqueous solution that is 37% formaldehyde by weight; inhibited solutions usually contain 6-12% methyl alcohol. Also see specific listings for Formaldehyde and Methyl alcohol.]
CAS No.
RTECS No.
DOT ID & Guide
1198 132
2209 132
Formula
Conversion
IDLH
Ca [20 ppm]
See: IDLH INDEX
Exposure Limits
NIOSH REL
Ca TWA 0.016 ppm C 0.1 ppm [15-minute] See Appendix A
OSHA PEL
[1910.1048] TWA 0.75 ppm ST 2 ppm
Measurement Methods
NIOSH 2016 , 2541 , 3500 , 3800;
OSHA ID205 , 52
See: NMAM or OSHA Methods
Physical Description
Colorless liquid with a pungent odor.
Molecular Weight
Varies
Boiling Point
214°F
Freezing Point
?
Solubility
Miscible
Vapor Pressure
1 mmHg
Ionization Potential
?
Specific Gravity
(77°F): 1.08
Flash Point
185°F
Upper Exposive Limit
73%
Lower Explosive Limit
7%
Class IIIA Combustible Liquid: Fl.P. at or above 140°F and below 200°F.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities
Strong oxidizers, alkalis & acids; phenols; urea; oxides; isocyanates; caustics; anhydrides
Exposure Routes
inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms
irritation eyes, nose, throat, respiratory system; lacrimation (discharge of tears); cough; wheezing, dermatitis; [potential occupational carcinogen]
Target Organs
Eyes, skin, respiratory system
Cancer Site
[nasal cancer]
Personal Protection/Sanitation
(See protection codes)
Skin:Prevent skin contact
Eyes:Prevent eye contact
Wash skin:When contaminated
Remove:When wet or contaminated
Change:No recommendation
Provide:Eyewash, Quick drench
First Aid
(See procedures)
Eye:Irrigate immediately
Skin:Water flush promptly
Breathing:Respiratory support
Swallow:Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations

(See Appendix E)

NIOSH

At concentrations above the NIOSH REL, or where there is no REL, at any detectable concentration:
(APF = 10,000) Any self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode
(APF = 10,000) Any supplied-air respirator that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained positive-pressure breathing apparatus

Escape:
(APF = 50) Any air-purifying, full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted canister providing protection against the compound of concern
Any appropriate escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus

Important additional information about respirator selection

See also
INTRODUCTION   ICSC CARD: 0695   MEDICAL TESTS: 0110

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