What is the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) recommended exposure limit for methyl ethyl ketone?
TIME-WEIGHTED AVERAGE (TLV-TWA): 200 ppm (590 mg/m3)
STEL: 300 ppm (885 mg/m3)
TLV BASIS - CRITICAL EFFECT(S) : Irritation; CNS (central nervous system)
BIOLOGICAL EXPOSURE INDICES (BEIs): The ACGIH has adopted a BEI for this chemical. BEIs provide an indication of worker exposure by measuring the chemical or its breakdown products in the body or by measuring biochemical changes resulting from exposure to the chemical. Consult the BEI documentation for further information.
NOTE: In many Canadian jurisdictions, exposure limits are similar to the ACGIH TLVs. Since the manner in which exposure limits are established, interpreted, and implemented can vary, obtain detailed information from the appropriate government agency in each jurisdiction.
What are the fire and explosion dangers associated with methyl ethyl ketone?
Extremely flammable. Material will readily ignite at room temperature. Vapour is heavier than air and may travel a considerable distance to a source of ignition and flash back to a leak or open container. During a fire, irritating/toxic gases may be generated. Can accumulate in confined spaces, resulting in a toxicity and flammability hazard. Concentrated solutions in water may be flammable. Closed containers may rupture violently when heated.
Is methyl ethyl ketone stable when exposed to air, moisture, or heat?
Normally stable. May form peroxides, which may be explosive after prolonged exposure to air and heat and upon prolonged storage.
Are there any conditions to avoid when using methyl ethyl ketone?
Flames, sparks, electrostatic discharge, heat and other ignition sources.
Does methyl ethyl ketone have an odour threshold (at what level can I smell it)?
Range of values reported: 2-85 ppm (detection); 5.4-55 ppm (recognition).
Is the odour of methyl ethyl ketone reliable as a warning property?
NOT RELIABLE - Range of odour thresholds with high value (85 ppm) only one quarter of the TLV (200 ppm). Vapour has strong odour and irritating effects at 350 ppm.
How can I work with methyl ethyl ketone safely?
This material is an EXTREMELY FLAMMABLE LIQUID and VAPOUR and an EYE IRRITANT. Before handling, it is extremely important that engineering controls are operating and that protective equipment requirements are being followed. People working with this chemical should be properly trained regarding its hazards and its safe use.
Eliminate all ignition sources (e.g. sparks, open flames, hot surfaces). Keep away from heat. Post NO SMOKING signs. It is very important to keep areas where this material is used clear of other materials which can burn. Electrically ground all drums, transfer vessels, hoses and piping. Ground clips must contact bare metal. When dispensing in other than a closed system, ensure dispensing container is bonded to receiving transfer equipment and container. Never perform any welding, cutting, soldering, drilling or other hot work on an empty vessel. To reduce the fire/explosion hazard, consider the use of an inert gas in the container or storage vessel. Use non-sparking ventilation systems, approved explosion-proof equipment and intrinsically safe electrical systems in areas of use. Keep aisles and exits free of obstruction. For large scale operations, consider the installation of leak and fire detection equipment along with a suitable, automatic fire suppression system.
Avoid generating vapours or mists. Prevent the release of vapours and mists into the workplace air. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, if necessary, to avoid contact with this chemical and any contaminated equipment.
Use in smallest possible amounts in a well-ventilated area separate from the storage area. Do not use with incompatible materials such as oxidizers and acids. Vigorous reactions followed by fire or explosion could result. Test for peroxides before distilling. To avoid splashing, carefully dispense into sturdy containers made of compatible materials. Never transfer liquids by pressurizing the original shipping containers with air or inert gas. Do not dispense in storage area unless dispensing area is segregated by fire-resistant construction. Only use portable containers and dispensing equipment (faucet, pump, drip can) approved for flammable liquids. Never return contaminated material to its original container.
Label containers. Keep containers closed when not in use. Avoid damaging containers. Empty containers may contain hazardous residues. Follow handling precautions on Material Safety Data Sheet. Have suitable emergency equipment for fires, spills and leaks readily available. Practice good housekeeping. Maintain handling equipment. Comply with applicable regulations.
What can be done to control hazardous conditions?
Engineering control methods to reduce hazardous exposures are preferred. Methods include mechanical ventilation (dilution and local exhaust), process or personnel enclosure, control of process conditions, and process modification (e.g. substitution of a less hazardous material). Administrative controls and personal protective equipment may also be required.
Use a non-sparking, grounded ventilation system separate from other exhaust ventilation systems. Exhaust directly to the outside. Use local exhaust ventilation, and process enclosure if necessary, to control airborne mist and vapour. Supply sufficient replacement air to make up for air removed by exhaust systems.
