23 Mar Hazards Of Solvents

Hazards of Solvents

Solvents are commonly used in paints, coatings, thinners, degreasers, cleaners, adhesives, mastics, and many other workplace products. Although solvents are useful, many can create serious health, fire, and exposure hazards if they are not handled properly.

A solvent is generally a substance capable of dissolving or dispersing another material. Solvents vary considerably in their properties and hazards. Employees must understand the specific solvent they are using and review the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use.

Routes of Exposure

Solvents can enter the body in several ways:

• Inhalation – Breathing solvent vapors, mists, or aerosols can introduce chemicals through the lungs and into the bloodstream.
• Skin absorption – Some solvents can pass through the skin and enter the body. Repeated contact can also remove the skin’s natural oils and cause irritation or dermatitis.
• Ingestion – Solvents can be accidentally swallowed when contaminated hands contact food, beverages, cigarettes, or the mouth.
• Injection – Solvents can enter the body through punctures, cuts, or high-pressure equipment. High-pressure injection injuries require immediate medical attention.

Health Effects

The effects of solvent exposure depend on the particular chemical, concentration, duration and frequency of exposure, and route of entry.

Short-term overexposure may cause:

• Headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Drowsiness or confusion.
• Irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, or respiratory system.
• Skin irritation, dryness, cracking, or dermatitis.
• Loss of coordination or impaired judgment.

High concentrations of some solvent vapors can cause unconsciousness, respiratory effects, or other life-threatening conditions.

Repeated or long-term exposure to certain solvents may affect the nervous system, liver, kidneys, blood, reproductive system, or other organs. Some solvents may also cause sensitization or have other serious chronic health effects.

Because the hazards vary by product, employees shall consult the SDS rather than assuming all solvents present the same risks.

Fire and Explosion Hazards

Many solvents are flammable or combustible. Their vapors may travel away from the point of use and ignite when they encounter an ignition source.

When working with flammable solvents:

• Keep them away from flames, sparks, hot surfaces, smoking, welding, and other ignition sources.
• Provide adequate ventilation to prevent vapor accumulation.
• Keep containers closed when not in use.
• Use approved containers and dispensing equipment.
• Ground and bond containers during transfer when required to control static electricity.
• Store flammable liquids in accordance with company procedures and applicable requirements.
• Clean up spills promptly using established spill-response procedures.

Never use a flammable solvent near an ignition source simply because the liquid itself is not visibly burning.

Safe Work Practices

Before using a solvent:

• Read the product label and SDS.
• Know the hazards and required precautions.
• Use the least hazardous product that will effectively perform the task when feasible.
• Ensure adequate ventilation is available.
• Wear the required personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Keep containers properly labeled.
• Never transfer solvents into beverage or food containers.
• Keep work areas clean and promptly address spills and leaks.
• Wash thoroughly after handling solvents and before eating, drinking, smoking, or touching your face.
• Dispose of solvent waste and contaminated materials according to company procedures.

Never use gasoline or other unauthorized solvents for cleaning tools, equipment, clothing, or skin.

Personal Protective Equipment

PPE must be selected according to the specific solvent and exposure. Depending on the product and task, protection may include:

• Chemical-resistant gloves appropriate for the solvent.
• Safety glasses, goggles, or face protection.
• Chemical-resistant clothing or aprons.
• Protective footwear.
• Respiratory protection when required.

Not every glove material protects against every solvent. Employees shall use the SDS, manufacturer’s compatibility information, or company PPE requirements to select appropriate chemical-resistant gloves.

Respirators shall only be used in accordance with the company’s Respiratory Protection Program, including required medical evaluations, fit testing, training, and respirator selection.

Never Clean Skin With Solvents

Do not use solvents, gasoline, paint thinner, or similar chemicals to clean your hands or skin. Solvents can remove protective oils, irritate the skin, and may be absorbed into the body.

Use approved hand cleaners and wash thoroughly with soap and water.

Contaminated clothing should be removed as appropriate and cleaned or disposed of according to the SDS and company procedures.

Know the SDS

The SDS provides critical information regarding:

• Chemical hazards and composition.
• Routes of exposure and health effects.
• Exposure limits.
• Required PPE.
• Safe handling and storage.
• First-aid measures.
• Firefighting measures.
• Spill and accidental-release procedures.
• Disposal considerations.

Employees shall know how to obtain an SDS and should ask their supervisor whenever they are uncertain about a solvent’s hazards or proper use.

Remember

Solvents may be common, but they should never be treated casually. Know what you are using, read the SDS, control vapors and ignition sources, prevent skin contact, use the proper PPE, and practice good personal hygiene.