POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 1 of 13
Section 1 - CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION
PRODUCT NAME
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
SYNONYMS
KOH, "caustic potash - flake", potassa, "potassium hydrate", "hydroxyde de potassium",
"potash lye" APS, TECH00004753, UL00001072, TECH00004435,
TECH00001183, TECH00004389, AR00000405, UL00000406, BP00005760, BP00004851, CAPOTA12,
CPOT.HYD, "potassium hydroxide pellets, pronalys"
PROPER SHIPPING NAME
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE, SOLID
PRODUCT USE
Manufacture of liquid soaps, paint and varnish removers; manufacture of potassium salts
such as potassium carbonate and potassium pyrophosphate; used as the electrolyte in
alkaline storage batteries, in electroplating, lithography and photoengraving; printing
inks; in dyestuffs, liquid fertilizers, herbicides and as a food additive; mordant for
wood; absorbent for carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide; in analytical chemistry and in
organic syntheses.
SUPPLIER
Company: Quantum Chemicals Pty Ltd
Address:
70 Quantum Close
Dandenong South
Victoria 3175
Telephone: 03 8795 8000
Emergency Tel: 1300 131 001
Fax: 03 8795 8099
HAZARD RATINGS
Flammability
Toxicity
Body Contact
Reactivity
Chronic
SCALE: Min/Nil=0 Low=1 Moderate=2 High=3 Extreme=4
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 2 of 13
Section 2 - HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION
STATEMENT OF HAZARDOUS NATURE
HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE. DANGEROUS GOODS. According to the Criteria of NOHSC,
and the ADG Code.
POISONS SCHEDULE
S6
RISK SAFETY
Harmful if swallowed. Keep locked up.
Causes severe burns. Do not breathe dust.
Risk of serious damage to eyes. Avoid contact with eyes.
Cumulative effects may result following Wear suitable protective clothing.
exposure*.
* (limited evidence). To clean the floor and all objects contaminated
by this material use water.
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing.
In case of accident or if you feel unwell
IMMEDIATELY contact Doctor or Poisons
Information Centre (show label if possible).
This material and its container must be disposed
of as hazardous waste.
Section 3 - COMPOSITION / INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS
NAME CAS RN %
potassium hydroxide 1310-58-3 >85
water 7732-18-5 <15
may contain potassium carbonate <2
Section 4 - FIRST AID MEASURES
SWALLOWED
路 For advice, contact a Poisons Information Centre or a doctor at once.
路 Urgent hospital treatment is likely to be needed.
路 If swallowed do NOT induce vomiting.
路 If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if
possible) to maintain open airway and prevent aspiration.
路 Observe the patient carefully.
路 Never give liquid to a person showing signs of being sleepy or with reduced awareness;
i.e. becoming unconscious.
路 Give water to rinse out mouth, then provide liquid slowly and as much as casualty can
comfortably drink.
路 Transport to hospital or doctor without delay.
EYE
If this product comes in contact with the eyes:
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 3 of 13
Section 4 - FIRST AID MEASURES
路 Immediately hold eyelids apart and flush the eye continuously with running water.
路 Ensure complete irrigation of the eye by keeping eyelids apart and away from eye and
moving the eyelids by occasionally lifting the upper and lower lids.
路 Continue flushing until advised to stop by the Poisons Information Centre or a doctor,
or for at least 15 minutes.
路 Transport to hospital or doctor without delay.
路 Removal of contact lenses after an eye injury should only be undertaken by skilled
personnel.
SKIN
If skin or hair contact occurs:
路 Immediately flush body and clothes with large amounts of water, using safety shower if
available.
路 Quickly remove all contaminated clothing, including footwear.
路 Wash skin and hair with running water. Continue flushing with water until advised to
stop by the Poisons Information Centre.
路 Transport to hospital, or doctor.
INHALED
路 If fumes or combustion products are inhaled remove from contaminated area.
路 Lay patient down. Keep warm and rested.
路 Prostheses such as false teeth, which may block airway, should be removed, where
possible, prior to initiating first aid procedures.
路 Apply artificial respiration if not breathing, preferably with a demand valve
resuscitator, bag-valve mask device, or pocket mask as trained. Perform CPR if necessary.
路 Transport to hospital, or doctor, without delay.
NOTES TO PHYSICIAN
For acute or short-term repeated exposures to highly alkaline materials:
路 Respiratory stress is uncommon but present occasionally because of soft tissue edema.
路 Unless endotracheal intubation can be accomplished under direct vision,
cricothyroidotomy or tracheotomy may be necessary.
路 Oxygen is given as indicated.
路 The presence of shock suggests perforation and mandates an intravenous line and fluid
administration.
路 Damage due to alkaline corrosives occurs by liquefaction necrosis whereby the
saponification of fats and solubilisation of proteins allow deep penetration into the
tissue.
Alkalis continue to cause damage after exposure.
INGESTION:
路 Milk and water are the preferred diluents
No more than 2 glasses of water should be given to an adult.
路 Neutralising agents should never be given since exothermic heat reaction may compound
injury.
* Catharsis and emesis are absolutely contra-indicated.
* Activated charcoal does not absorb alkali.
* Gastric lavage should not be used.
Supportive care involves the following:
路 Withhold oral feedings initially.
路 If endoscopy confirms transmucosal injury start steroids only within the first 48
hours.
路 Carefully evaluate the amount of tissue necrosis before assessing the need for surgical
intervention.
路 Patients should be instructed to seek medical attention whenever they develop
difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia).
SKIN AND EYE:
路 Injury should be irrigated for 20-30 minutes.
Eye injuries require saline. [Ellenhorn & Barceloux: Medical Toxicology].
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 4 of 13
Section 4 - FIRST AID MEASURES
Section 5 - FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
EXTINGUISHING MEDIA
路 Water spray or fog.
路 Foam.
路 Dry chemical powder.
路 BCF (where regulations permit).
路 Carbon dioxide.
FIRE FIGHTING
路 Alert Fire Brigade and tell them location and nature of hazard.
路 Wear full body protective clothing with breathing apparatus.
路 Prevent, by any means available, spillage from entering drains or water course.
路 Use fire fighting procedures suitable for surrounding area.
路 Do not approach containers suspected to be hot.
路 Cool fire exposed containers with water spray from a protected location.
路 If safe to do so, remove containers from path of fire.
路 Equipment should be thoroughly decontaminated after use.
FIRE/EXPLOSION HAZARD
路 Non combustible.
路 Not considered a significant fire risk, however containers may burn.
May emit corrosive fumes.
FIRE INCOMPATIBILITY
None known.
HAZCHEM: 2X
Personal Protective Equipment
Gas tight chemical resistant suit.
Section 6 - ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
MINOR SPILLS
路 Remove all ignition sources.
路 Clean up all spills immediately.
路 Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
路 Control personal contact by using protective equipment.
路 Use dry clean up procedures and avoid generating dust.
路 Place in a suitable labelled container for waste disposal.
MAJOR SPILLS
路 Clear area of personnel and move upwind.
路 Alert Fire Brigade and tell them location and nature of hazard.
路 Wear full body protective clothing with breathing apparatus.
路 Prevent, by any means available, spillage from entering drains or water course.
路 Consider evacuation (or protect in place).
路 Stop leak if safe to do so.
路 Contain spill with sand, earth or vermiculite.
路 Collect recoverable product into labelled containers for recycling.
路 Neutralise/decontaminate residue.
路 Collect solid residues and seal in labelled drums for disposal.
路 Wash area and prevent runoff into drains.
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 5 of 13
Section 6 - ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
路 After clean up operations, decontaminate and launder all protective clothing and
equipment before storing and re-using.
路 If contamination of drains or waterways occurs, advise emergency services.
PROTECTIVE ACTIONS FOR SPILL
PROTECTIVE ACTION ZONE
half
evacuation
downwind
direction
distance
down wind distance
wind isolation
distance
direction
half
evacuation downwind
INITIAL direction distance
ISOLATION
ZONE
From IERG (Canada/Australia)
Isolation Distance 25 metres
Downwind Protection Distance 250 metres
IERG Number 37
FOOTNOTES
1 PROTECTIVE ACTION ZONE is defined as the area in which people are at risk of harmful exposure. This zone
assumes that random changes in wind direction confines the vapour plume to an area within 30 degrees on
either side of the predominant wind direction, resulting in a crosswind protective action distance equal
to the downwind protective action distance.
2 PROTECTIVE ACTIONS should be initiated to the extent possible, beginning with those closest to the spill
and working away from the site in the downwind direction. Within the protective action zone a level of
vapour concentration may exist resulting in nearly all unprotected persons becoming incapacitated and
unable to take protective action and/or incurring serious or irreversible health effects.
3 INITIAL ISOLATION ZONE is determined as an area, including upwind of the incident, within which a high
probability of localised wind reversal may expose nearly all persons without appropriate protection to
life-threatening concentrations of the material.
4 SMALL SPILLS involve a leaking package of 200 litres (55 US gallons) or less, such as a drum (jerrican or
box with inner containers). Larger packages leaking less than 200 litres and compressed gas leaking from
a small cylinder are also considered "small spills".
LARGE SPILLS involve many small leaking packages or a leaking package of greater than 200 litres, such as
a cargo tank, portable tank or a "one-tonne" compressed gas cylinder.
5 Guide 154 is taken from the US DOT emergency response guide book.
6 IERG information is derived from CANUTEC - Transport Canada.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANNING GUIDELINES (ERPG)
The maximum airborne concentration below which it is believed that nearly all individuals could be exposed
for up to one hour WITHOUT experiencing or developing
life-threatening health effects is:
potassium hydroxide 150 mg/m鲁
irreversible or other serious effects or symptoms which could impair an individual's ability to take
protective action is:
potassium hydroxide 2 mg/m鲁
other than mild, transient adverse effects without perceiving a clearly defined odour is:
potassium hydroxide 2 mg/m鲁
The threshold concentration below which most people will experience no appreciable risk of health effects:
potassium hydroxide 2 mg/m鲁
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 6 of 13
Section 6 - ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA)
Ingredients considered according to the following cutoffs
Very Toxic (T+) >= 0.1% Toxic (T) >= 3.0%
R50 >= 0.25% Corrosive (C) >= 5.0%
R51 >= 2.5%
else >= 10%
where percentage is percentage of ingredient found in the mixture
Personal Protective Equipment advice is contained in Section 8 of the MSDS.
Section 7 - HANDLING AND STORAGE
PROCEDURE FOR HANDLING
DO NOT use aluminium, galvanised or tin-plated containers.
路 Avoid all personal contact, including inhalation.
路 Wear protective clothing when risk of exposure occurs.
路 Use in a well-ventilated area.
路 WARNING: To avoid violent reaction, ALWAYS add material to water and NEVER water to
material.
路 Avoid smoking, naked lights or ignition sources.
路 Avoid contact with incompatible materials.
路 When handling, DO NOT eat, drink or smoke.
路 Keep containers securely sealed when not in use.
路 Avoid physical damage to containers.
路 Always wash hands with soap and water after handling.
路 Work clothes should be laundered separately. Launder contaminated clothing before re
-use.
路 Use good occupational work practice.
路 Observe manufacturer's storing and handling recommendations.
路 Atmosphere should be regularly checked against established exposure standards to
ensure safe working conditions are maintained.
SUITABLE CONTAINER
Glass container.
路 Lined metal can, lined metal pail/ can.
路 Plastic pail.
路 Polyliner drum.
路 Packing as recommended by manufacturer.
路 Check all containers are clearly labelled and free from leaks.
STORAGE INCOMPATIBILITY
Avoid reaction with., organic materials / compounds.
Reacts vigorously with acids.
Avoid strong acids.
Avoid contact with copper, aluminium and their alloys., strong acids.
Segregate from nitro compounds and trichloroethylene.
STORAGE REQUIREMENTS
Plastic bag
NOTE: Bags should be stacked, blocked, interlocked, and limited in height so that they
are stable and secure against sliding or collapse.
路 Store in original containers.
路 Keep containers securely sealed.
路 Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
路 Store away from incompatible materials and foodstuff containers.
路 Protect containers against physical damage and check regularly for leaks.
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 7 of 13
Section 7 - HANDLING AND STORAGE
路 Observe manufacturer's storing and handling recommendations.
DO NOT store near acids, or oxidising agents.
No smoking, naked lights, heat or ignition sources.
_____________________________________________________
SAFE STORAGE WITH OTHER CLASSIFIED CHEMICALS
+ + + + + +
_____________________________________________________
+: May be stored together
O: May be stored together with specific preventions
X: Must not be stored together
Section 8 - EXPOSURE CONTROLS / PERSONAL PROTECTION
EXPOSURE CONTROLS
Source Material Peak mg/m鲁
_________ _________ _____
Australia Exposure Standards potassium hydroxide (Potassium 2
hydroxide)
The following materials had no OELs on our records
鈥? water: CAS:7732- 18- 5
MATERIAL DATA
The TLV-TWA is protective against respiratory tract irritation produced at
higher concentrations.
INGREDIENT DATA
WATER:
No exposure limits set by NOHSC or ACGIH.
PERSONAL PROTECTION
EYE
路 Chemical goggles.
路 Full face shield may be required for supplementary but never for primary protection of
eyes
路 Contact lenses may pose a special hazard; soft contact lenses may absorb and
concentrate irritants. A written policy document, describing the wearing of lens or
restrictions on use, should be created for each workplace or task. This should include a
review of lens absorption and adsorption for the class of chemicals in use and an account
of injury experience. Medical and first-aid personnel should be trained in their removal
and suitable equipment should be readily available. In the event of chemical exposure,
begin eye irrigation immediately and remove contact lens as soon as practicable. Lens
should be removed at the first signs of eye redness or irritation - lens should be
removed in a clean environment only after workers have washed hands thoroughly. [CDC
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 8 of 13
Section 8 - EXPOSURE CONTROLS / PERSONAL PROTECTION
NIOSH Current Intelligence Bulletin 59].
HANDS/FEET
Suitability and durability of glove type is dependent on usage. Factors such as:
路 frequency and duration of contact,
路 chemical resistance of glove material,
路 glove thickness and
路 dexterity,
are important in the selection of gloves.
Elbow length PVC gloves.
OTHER
路 Overalls.
路 PVC Apron.
路 PVC protective suit may be required if exposure severe.
路 Eyewash unit.
路 Ensure there is ready access to a safety shower.
GLOVE SELECTION INDEX
Glove selection is based on a modified presentation of the:
" Forsberg Clothing Performance Index" .
The effect(s) of the following substance(s) are taken into account in the
computer- generated selection: potassium hydroxide
Protective Material CPI *.
__________________________________________
BUTYL A
NATURAL+NEOPRENE A
NEOPRENE A
NITRILE+PVC A
PVC A
NITRILE A
NATURAL RUBBER B
__________________________________________
* CPI - Chemwatch Performance Index
A: Best Selection
B: Satisfactory; may degrade after 4 hours continuous immersion
C: Poor to Dangerous Choice for other than short term immersion
NOTE: As a series of factors will influence the actual performance of the glove,
a final selection must be based on detailed observation. -
* Where the glove is to be used on a short term, casual or infrequent basis,
factors such as "feel" or convenience (e.g. disposability), may dictate a choice
of gloves which might otherwise be unsuitable following long-term or frequent use.
A qualified practitioner should be consulted.
RESPIRATOR
Protection Factor Half- Face Respirator Full- Face Respirator Powered Air Respirator
10 x ES P1 Air- line* -- PAPR- P1 -
50 x ES Air- line** P2 PAPR- P2
100 x ES - P3 -
Air- line* -
100+ x ES - Air- line** PAPR- P3
* - Negative pressure demand ** - Continuous flow.
The local concentration of material, quantity and conditions of use determine the type of
personal protective equipment required.
For further information consult site specific
CHEMWATCH data (if available), or your
Occupational Health and Safety Advisor.
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 9 of 13
Section 8 - EXPOSURE CONTROLS / PERSONAL PROTECTION
ENGINEERING CONTROLS
Local exhaust ventilation usually required. If risk of overexposure exists, wear approved
respirator. Correct fit is essential to obtain adequate protection. Supplied-air type
respirator may be required in special circumstances. Correct fit is essential to ensure
adequate protection.
An approved self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) may be required in some situations.
Provide adequate ventilation in warehouse or closed storage area. Air contaminants
generated in the workplace possess varying "escape" velocities which, in turn, determine
the "capture velocities" of fresh circulating air required to effectively remove the
contaminant.
Type of Contaminant: Air Speed:
solvent, vapours, degreasing etc., evaporating 0.25- 0.5 m/s (50- 100 f/min.)
from tank (in still air).
aerosols, fumes from pouring operations, 0.5- 1 m/s (100- 200 f/min.)
intermittent container filling, low speed
conveyer transfers, welding, spray drift,
plating acid fumes, pickling (released at low
velocity into zone of active generation)
direct spray, spray painting in shallow booths, 1- 2.5 m/s (200- 500 f/min.)
drum filling, conveyer loading, crusher dusts,
gas discharge (active generation into zone of
rapid air motion)
grinding, abrasive blasting, tumbling, high 2.5- 10 m/s (500- 2000 f/min.)
speed wheel generated dusts (released at high
initial velocity into zone of very high rapid
air motion).
Within each range the appropriate value depends on:
Lower end of the range Upper end of the range
1: Room air currents minimal or favourable to 1: Disturbing room air currents
capture
2: Contaminants of low toxicity or of nuisance 2: Contaminants of high toxicity
value only.
3: Intermittent, low production. 3: High production, heavy use
4: Large hood or large air mass in motion 4: Small hood- local control only
Simple theory shows that air velocity falls rapidly with distance away from the opening
of a simple extraction pipe. Velocity generally decreases with the square of distance
from the extraction point (in simple cases). Therefore the air speed at the extraction
point should be adjusted, accordingly, after reference to distance from the contaminating
source. The air velocity at the extraction fan, for example, should be a minimum of 1-2
m/s (200-400 f/min) for extraction of solvents generated in a tank 2 meters distant from
the extraction point. Other mechanical considerations, producing performance deficits
within the extraction apparatus, make it essential that theoretical air velocities are
multiplied by factors of 10 or more when extraction systems are installed or used.
Section 9 - PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
APPEARANCE
White or slightly yellow solid, in the form of pellets, flakes, sticks or lumps;
hygroscopic; soluble in water, alcohol and glycerol. HIGHLY CORROSIVE in solid and
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 10 of 13
Section 9 - PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
solution form. Generates heat when dissolved in water. Reacts violently with strong acids
and many organic chemicals.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Solid.
Mixes with water.
Corrosive.
Alkaline.
Molecular Weight: 56.11 Boiling Range (掳C): 1316
Melting Range (掳C): Approx. 360 Specific Gravity (water=1): 2.04 @ 20 C
Solubility in water (g/L): Miscible pH (as supplied): Not applicable
pH (1% solution): Approx. 13.5 Vapour Pressure (kPa): Negligible
Volatile Component (%vol): Negligible Evaporation Rate: Not applicable
Relative Vapour Density (air=1): Not available. Flash Point (掳C): Not applicable
Lower Explosive Limit (%): Not applicable Upper Explosive Limit (%): Not applicable
Autoignition Temp (掳C): Not applicable Decomposition Temp (掳C): Not Applicable
State: Divided solid Viscosity: Not Applicable
Section 10 - CHEMICAL STABILITY AND REACTIVITY INFORMATION
CONDITIONS CONTRIBUTING TO INSTABILITY
路 Presence of incompatible materials.
路 Product is considered stable.
路 Hazardous polymerisation will not occur.
Section 11 - TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION
POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS
ACUTE HEALTH EFFECTS
SWALLOWED
Accidental ingestion of the material may be harmful; animal experiments indicate that
ingestion of less than 150 gram may be fatal or may produce serious damage to the health
of the individual.
Ingestion of alkaline corrosives may produce burns around the mouth, ulcerations and
swellings of the mucous membranes, profuse saliva production, with an inability to speak
or swallow. Both the oesophagus and stomach may experience burning pain; vomiting and
diarrhoea may follow. Epiglottal swelling may result in respiratory distress and asphyxia
; shock can occur. Narrowing of the oesophagus, stomach or stomach valve may occur
immediately or after a long delay (weeks to years). Severe exposure can perforate the
oesophagus or stomach leading to infections of the chest or abdominal cavity, with low
chest pain, abdominal stiffness and fever. All of the above can cause death.
EYE
If applied to the eyes, this material causes severe eye damage.
Direct eye contact with corrosive bases can cause pain and burns. There may be swelling,
epithelium destruction, clouding of the cornea and inflammation of the iris. Mild cases
often resolve; severe cases can be prolonged with complications such as persistent
swelling, scarring, permanent cloudiness, bulging of the eye, cataracts, eyelids glued to
the eyeball and blindness.
SKIN
The material can produce severe chemical burns following direct contact
with the skin.
Skin contact with alkaline corrosives may produce severe pain and burns; brownish stains
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 11 of 13
Section 11 - TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION
may develop. The corroded area may be soft, gelatinous and necrotic; tissue destruction
may be deep.
Skin contact is not thought to produce harmful health effects (as classified under EC
Directives using animal models). Systemic harm, however, has been identified following
exposure of animals by at least one other route and the material may still produce health
damage following entry through wounds, lesions or abrasions. Good hygiene practice
requires that exposure be kept to a minimum and that suitable gloves be used in an
occupational setting.
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.
INHALED
The material can cause respiratory irritation in some persons. The body's response to
such irritation can cause further lung damage.
Inhaling corrosive bases may irritate the respiratory tract. Symptoms include cough,
choking, pain and damage to the mucous membrane. In severe cases, lung swelling may
develop, sometimes after a delay of hours to days. There may be low blood pressure, a
weak and rapid pulse, and crackling sounds.
Persons with impaired respiratory function, airway diseases and conditions such as
emphysema or chronic bronchitis, may incur further disability if excessive concentrations
of particulate are inhaled.
The material is not thought to produce adverse health effects following inhalation (as
classified by EC Directives using animal models). Nevertheless, adverse systemic effects
have been produced following exposure of animals by at least one other route and good
hygiene practice requires that exposure be kept to a minimum and that suitable control
measures be used in an occupational setting.
CHRONIC HEALTH EFFECTS
Repeated or prolonged exposure to corrosives may result in the erosion of teeth,
inflammatory and ulcerative changes in the mouth and necrosis (rarely) of the jaw.
Bronchial irritation, with cough, and frequent attacks of bronchial pneumonia may ensue.
Gastrointestinal disturbances may also occur. Chronic exposures may result in dermatitis
and/or conjunctivitis.
Substance accumulation, in the human body, may occur and may cause some concern following
repeated or long-term occupational exposure.
Long term exposure to high dust concentrations may cause changes in lung function i.e.
pneumoconiosis; caused by particles less than 0.5 micron penetrating and remaining in the
lung. Prime symptom is breathlessness; lung shadows show on X-ray.
TOXICITY AND IRRITATION
unless otherwise specified data extracted from RTECS - Register of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances.
TOXICITY IRRITATION
Oral (rat) LD50: 273 mg/kg Skin (human): 50 mg/24h SEVERE
Skin (rabbit): 50 mg/24h SEVERE
Eye (rabbit):1mg/24h rinse- Moderate
The material may produce moderate eye irritation leading to inflammation. Repeated or
prolonged exposure to irritants may produce conjunctivitis.
The material may cause severe skin irritation after prolonged or repeated exposure and
may produce on contact skin redness, swelling, the production of vesicles, scaling and
thickening of the skin. Repeated exposures may produce severe ulceration.
Asthma-like symptoms may continue for months or even years after exposure to the material
ceases. This may be due to a non-allergenic condition known as reactive airways
dysfunction syndrome (RADS) which can occur following exposure to high levels of highly
irritating compound. Key criteria for the diagnosis of RADS include the absence of
preceding respiratory disease, in a non-atopic individual, with abrupt onset of
persistent asthma-like symptoms within minutes to hours of a documented exposure to the
irritant. A reversible airflow pattern, on spirometry, with the presence of moderate to
severe bronchial hyperreactivity on methacholine challenge testing and the lack of
minimal lymphocytic inflammation, without eosinophilia, have also been included in the
criteria for diagnosis of RADS. RADS (or asthma) following an irritating inhalation is an
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 12 of 13
Section 11 - TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION
infrequent disorder with rates related to the concentration of and duration of exposure
to the irritating substance. Industrial bronchitis, on the other hand, is a disorder that
occurs as result of exposure due to high concentrations of irritating substance (often
particulate in nature) and is completely reversible after exposure ceases. The disorder
is characterised by dyspnea, cough and mucus production.
WATER:
unless otherwise specified data extracted from RTECS - Register of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances.
No significant acute toxicological data identified in literature search.
Section 12 - ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION
Prevent, by any means available, spillage from entering drains or water
courses.
DO NOT discharge into sewer or waterways.
Section 13 - DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS
路 Recycle wherever possible.
路 Consult manufacturer for recycling options or consult local or regional waste
management authority for disposal if no suitable treatment or disposal facility can be
identified.
路 Treat and neutralise at an approved treatment plant. Treatment should involve: Mixing
or slurrying in water; Neutralisation followed by: Burial in a licenced land-fill or
Incineration in a licenced apparatus (after admixture with suitable combustible material)
路 Decontaminate empty containers. Observe all label safeguards until containers are
cleaned and destroyed.
路 Containers may still present a chemical hazard/ danger when empty.
路 Return to supplier for reuse/ recycling if possible.
Otherwise:
路 If container can not be cleaned sufficiently well to ensure that residuals do not
remain or if the container cannot be used to store the same product, then puncture
containers, to prevent re-use, and bury at an authorised landfill.
路 Where possible retain label warnings and MSDS and observe all notices pertaining to the
product.
Section 14 - TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
Labels Required: CORROSIVE
HAZCHEM: 2X
UNDG:
Dangerous Goods Class: 8 Subrisk: None
UN Number: 1813 Packing Group: II
Shipping Name:POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE, SOLID
Air Transport IATA:
ICAO/IATA Class: 8 ICAO/IATA Subrisk: None
UN/ID Number: 1813 Packing Group: II
POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
Chemwatch Material Safety Data Sheet (REVIEW)
Issue Date: 23-May-2006 CHEMWATCH 1813
NC317TCP Version No:5
CD 2007/3 Page 13 of 13
Section 14 - TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
Special provisions: None
Shipping Name: POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE, SOLID
Maritime Transport IMDG:
IMDG Class: 8 IMDG Subrisk: None
UN Number: 1813 Packing Group: II
EMS Number: F- A, S- B Special provisions: None
Shipping Name: POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE, SOLID
Section 15 - REGULATORY INFORMATION
POISONS SCHEDULE: S6
REGULATIONS
potassium hydroxide (CAS: 1310-58-3) is found on the following regulatory lists;
Australia Exposure Standards
Australia High Volume Industrial Chemical List (HVICL)
Australia Inventory of Chemical Substances (AICS)
Australia Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Drugs and Poisons (SUSDP) - Appendix E (Part 2)
Australia Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Drugs and Poisons (SUSDP) - Appendix F (Part 3)
Australia Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Drugs and Poisons (SUSDP) - Schedule 5
Australia Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Drugs and Poisons (SUSDP) - Schedule 6
CODEX General Standard for Food Additives (GSFA) - Additives Permitted for Use in Food in General, Unless Otherwise Specified, in Accordance with GMP
International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA) - High Production Volume List
OECD Representative List of High Production Volume (HPV) Chemicals
Section 16 - OTHER INFORMATION
MSDS SECTION CHANGES
The following table displays the version number of and date on which each section was last changed.
Section Name Version Date Section Name Version Date Section Name Version Date
First Aid 5 23- May- 2006 Storage (storage 5 23- May- 2006 Acute Health (eye) 5 23- May- 2006
(inhaled) incompatibility)
First Aid (skin) 5 23- May- 2006 Storage (storage 5 23- May- 2006 Acute Health 5 23- May- 2006
requirement) (inhaled)
First Aid 5 23- May- 2006 Storage (suitable 5 23- May- 2006 Acute Health 5 23- May- 2006
(swallowed) container) (skin)
Fire Fighter 5 23- May- 2006 Engineering 5 23- May- 2006 Acute Health 5 23- May- 2006
(extinguishing Control (swallowed)
media)
Fire Fighter (fire 5 23- May- 2006 Personal 5 23- May- 2006 Chronic Health 5 23- May- 2006
fighting) Protection (eye)
Fire Fighter (fire 5 23- May- 2006 Personal 5 23- May- 2006 Toxicity and 5 23- May- 2006
incompatibility) Protection Irritation (Other)
(hands/feet)
Fire Fighter 5 23- May- 2006 Appearance 5 23- May- 2006 Environmental 5 23- May- 2006
(fire/explosion
hazard)
Spills (major) 5 23- May- 2006 Physical 5 23- May- 2006 Disposal 5 23- May- 2006
Properties
Spills (minor) 5 23- May- 2006 Instability 5 23- May- 2006 Transport 5 23- May- 2006
Condition
Handling Procedure 5 23- May- 2006
Classification of the preparation and its individual components has drawn on official and
authoritative sources as well as independent review by the Chemwatch Classification
committee using available literature references.
This document is copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purposes of private study, research, review or
criticism, as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission
from CHEMWATCH. TEL (+61 3) 9572 4700.
Issue Date: 23-May-2006
Print Date: 4-Jan-2008
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