SECTION V - HEALTH HAZARD DATA

TB 43-0199

SECTION V - HEALTH HAZARD DATA

THRESHOLD LIMIT VALUE: DS2 is made of two major components (EGME & DETA) with different toxicities and physical

properties. The TLV of the mixture (calculated) is 5.2 mg/m3 as an 8 hour time weighted average (TWA). To date the

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has not promulgated a permissible exposure limit for DS2 per se

nor has the value proposed been officially adopted as a part of a special occupational safety and health standard for DS2

in accordance with DOD 6055.1.

EFFECTS OF OVEREXPOSURE: No toxicity data are available on DS2 per se, however, the toxicity of each of the

components has been partially determined.

(1) DS2 is an alkali and with direct contact will corrode tissue, e.g., skin, eye, respiratory mucous or gastric

mucous. The effects exhibited depend on route of exposure, amount of substance present, and duration of exposure.

Health effects can range from mild burns and primary irritation to corneal pacification, severe burns, and esophageal

stricture.

(2) Sufficient exposure to EGME, a major component of DS2, may cause central nervous system depression and

liver damage. Although not definitely established in humans, reproductive effects (including teratogenisis) are also a major

concern with this substance. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends that EGME

be regarded in the workplace as having the potential to cause adverse reproductive effects in male and female workers.

Appropriate controls must be instituted to minimize worker exposure to EGME.

(3)

Exposure to high vapor concentrations of DS2 can cause nausea, vomiting, and respiratory irritation as acute

effects.

(4)

Repeated skin and respiratory exposures to DETA can cause skin sensitization and asthma.

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES'

INHALATION: Remove to fresh air. If breathing has stopped, give artifical respiration. If breathing is difficult, give

oxygen. Seek medical attention immediately. Additional supportive measures may be required.

EYE CONTACT: Immediately flush the eyes with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical

attention immediately.

SKIN CONTACT: Flush away the DS2 from the skin with water until "soapiness" is no longer present. Seek medical

attention immediately.

INGESTION: If the patient is conscious, give as much milk or water as possible. Do not induce vomiting. Seek

medical attention immediately. Supportive measures may be required.

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