TOLUENE

ANTISAL 1a

BENZENE, METHYL-

CP 25

METHACIDE

METHANE, PHENYL-

METHYL BENZENE

METHYL-BENZENE

METHYLBENZENE

METHYL BENZOL

METHYLBENZOL

MONOMETHYL BENZENE

PHENYL METHANE

PHENYLMETHANE

TOL

TOLUEEN (Dutch)

TOLUEN (Czech)

TOLUENO (Spanish)

TOLUOL

TOLUOLO (Italian)

TOLU-SOL

ETHYLENEBENZENE

TOLUEEN

TOLUEN

TOLUENO

TOLUOLO

108-88-3(Toluene)

XS5250000

1294-Toluene

49 093 56 - Toluene (toluol), reclaimed solvents, derived from the use of printing inks, consisting of 70% recycled toluol and not more than 30% lactol spirits, textile spirits and mineral spirits

49 060 10 - Toluene (toluol), mixed with aluminum alkyls, not to exceed 20% (aluminum alkyl)

49 093 05 - Toluene

STANDARD INDUSTRIAL TRADE CLASSIFICATION NUMBER:51123

C7-H8

C6-H5-CH3

130-FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS (NON-POLAR / WATER-IMMISCIBLE / NOXIOUS)(for UN/NA Number1294)

Toluene is used in the manufacture of benzene, benzyl chloride, toluene diisocyanate, benzoic acid, benzaldehyde, explosives (TNT), dyes, and many other organic compounds. It is also used as a solvent for rubber, oil, adhesives, inks, detergents, dyes, paints, lacquers, gums, resins, in the extraction of various principles from plants, in pharmaceuticals, and as an additive to increase fuel and gasoline octane ratings. It is also used as a nonclinical thermometer liquid (ACGIH, 1991; Bingham et al, 2001; Budavari, 2000; Hathaway et al, 1996; Lewis, 1997; Verschueren, 2001).

Approximately 11%of the total toluene produced in the United States is isolated as toluene. Most is produced and used in a mixture of benzene, toluene and xylene as a gasoline additive to increase octane rating (Bingham et al, 2001).

Toluene is a highly volatile and colorless, clear, refractive liquid with a sweet, pungent, aromatic odor (Budavari, 2000; CHRIS , 2002). Its odor has also been described as a sour, burnt smell (Verschueren, 2001).

Toluene is available commercially in nitration, industrial, and reagent grades (ACGIH, 1991).

Toluene is isolated through the petroleum catalytic conversion reforming reactions of C6 to C9 naphthas and sulfolane extraction (Bingham et al, 2001; ACGIH, 1991). It is a monomethyl derivative of benzene (Baxter et al, 2000).

Reforming of n-heptane at 977 degrees C yields approximately 62% toluene (Bingham et al, 2001).

Toluene occurs naturally in crude oil and in the tolu tree (ATSDR, 2001). It has been detected in natural gas deposits, volcanic emissions and forest fires (HSDB , 2002).

MILD TO MODERATE TOXICITY: Acute ingestion causes CNS depression, oropharyngeal and gastric pain and vomiting. Splash exposure to eyes may cause irritation, burning, blepharospasm, conjunctivitis, corneal edema, and corneal abrasions. Symptoms usually resolve within 48 hours. Prolonged or repeated dermal exposures may result in a defatting dermatitis. Occupational exposure has been linked to an increased risk of esophageal and rectal cancers as well as increased mortality from bone and connective tissue cancers.

SEVERE TOXICITY: Acute inhalation produces a biphasic response with an initial CNS excitation followed by CNS depression, which is characterized by ataxia, fatigue, sedation, occasionally seizures, and at very high concentrations general anesthesia. Sudden death may occur from hypoxia or cardiac dysrhythmias. Chronic inhalational abuse is associated with muscular weakness, gastrointestinal symptoms (pain, nausea, vomiting), renal tubular acidosis (hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis), hepatic injury, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Patients who chronically abuse toluene may exhibit hypokalemia, hematuria, proteinuria, oliguria, paresis, rhabdomyolysis, hallucinations, hyperactive reflexes, peripheral neuropathy, personality changes, tremors, headaches, emotional lability, and memory loss. Patients with long-term inhalational abuse may develop progressive irreversible encephalopathy with cognitive difficulty and cerebellar ataxia. Significant inhalational exposure causes an easily recognized odor to the breath that may persist for several days after exposure ceases. There are a small number of case reports of mothers who regularly abused toluene recreationally during pregnancy giving birth to children with microcephaly, CNS dysfunction, and minor head, face and limb anomalies. However, some of these mothers also abused ethanol as well.

May cause toxic effects if inhaled or absorbed through skin.

Inhalation or contact with material may irritate or burn skin and eyes.

Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.

Vapors may cause dizziness or suffocation.

Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

TOXICOLOGY: It has long been held that toluene's effect on the central nervous system are via nonspecific lipophilic membrane interactions, which in turn modulates several neurotransmitter systems (ie, dopamine, acetylcholine, GABA, glycine, and serotonin).

EPIDEMIOLOGY: Exposures are common, but significant toxicity is generally only seen in the setting of deliberate inhalation abuse and deaths are rare.

MILD TO MODERATE TOXICITY: Acute ingestion causes CNS depression, oropharyngeal and gastric pain and vomiting. Splash exposure to eyes may cause irritation, burning, blepharospasm, conjunctivitis, corneal edema, and corneal abrasions. Symptoms usually resolve within 48 hours. Prolonged or repeated dermal exposures may result in a defatting dermatitis. Occupational exposure has been linked to an increased risk of esophageal and rectal cancers as well as increased mortality from bone and connective tissue cancers.

SEVERE TOXICITY: Acute inhalation produces a biphasic response with an initial CNS excitation followed by CNS depression, which is characterized by ataxia, fatigue, sedation, occasionally seizures, and at very high concentrations general anesthesia. Sudden death may occur from hypoxia or cardiac dysrhythmias. Chronic inhalational abuse is associated with muscular weakness, gastrointestinal symptoms (pain, nausea, vomiting), renal tubular acidosis (hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis), hepatic injury, and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Patients who chronically abuse toluene may exhibit hypokalemia, hematuria, proteinuria, oliguria, paresis, rhabdomyolysis, hallucinations, hyperactive reflexes, peripheral neuropathy, personality changes, tremors, headaches, emotional lability, and memory loss. Patients with long-term inhalational abuse may develop progressive irreversible encephalopathy with cognitive difficulty and cerebellar ataxia. Significant inhalational exposure causes an easily recognized odor to the breath that may persist for several days after exposure ceases. There are a small number of case reports of mothers who regularly abused toluene recreationally during pregnancy giving birth to children with microcephaly, CNS dysfunction, and minor head, face and limb anomalies. However, some of these mothers also abused ethanol as well.

METABOLIC ACIDOSIS: Hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis is a common presenting finding in hospitalized toluene abusers; 76% to 100% of paint sniffers in 2 small case series presented with metabolic acidosis (Tsao et al, 2011; Streicher et al, 1981; Voights & Kaufman, 1983). Other cases of paint sniffing have also shown metabolic acidosis on admission (Voights & Kaufman, 1983).

MECHANISM: Toluene inhalation causes metabolic acidosis due to tissue hypoxia, distal renal tubular acidosis, and accumulation of its metabolites, benzoic and hippuric acids.

CARDIAC DYSRHYTHMIA: Sudden death after acute inhalation (usually in chronic abusers) is occasionally due to fatal dysrhythmias possibly secondary to sensitization to endogenous catecholamines (Bingham et al, 2001; Carlsson, 1982). Sinus bradycardia (Einav et al, 1997), ventricular fibrillation and myocardial infarction (Carder & Fuerst, 1997; Hussain et al, 1996; Cunningham et al, 1987) have been reported.

CARDIOMYOPATHY: Isolated cases of dilated cardiomyopathy have been reported in chronic toluene abusers (Wiseman & Banim, 1987; Mee & Wright, 1980).

HYPERTENSION EPISODE: A 46-year-old man presented to the emergency department with a blood pressure of 147/92 mmHg 30 minutes after ingestion of approximately 1 quart of a paint thinner that contained toluene (Caravati & Bjerk, 1997).

HYPOTENSION: A 34-year-old man presented to the hospital with a systolic blood pressure of 60 mmHg and a pulse of 45 beats/minute after an acute inhalation of paint thinner containing 50% toluene (Einav et al, 1997).

ECG ABNORMALITIES: ECG abnormalities (ie, first degree AV-block, AV dissociation with junctional escape beat) can occur and have been reported in patients exposed to toluene inhalants (Tsao et al, 2011; Einav et al, 1997).

DERMATITIS: After prolonged contact with skin, toluene may cause drying and defatting, which results in fissured dermatitis (Bingham et al, 2001; HSDB , 2002).

CHEMICAL BURN: Isolated cases of chemical burns have been reported in patients who were exposed to toluene-containing liquids (Reisin et al, 1975), which can result in significant toxicity and even death following extensive burns (Shibata et al, 1994).

Studies in toluene exposed workers have demonstrated lower levels of follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone (Svensson et al, 1992; Svensson et al, 1992a).

Hypokalemia, metabolic acidosis and hypophosphatemia are typical, with greater severity in those presenting with the muscular weakness syndrome. Hypercalcemia and hypouricemia are less frequent (Karmakar & Roxburgh, 2008; Gummin & Hryhorczuk, 2006; Kamijo et al, 1998).

HYPERCALCEMIA: Hypercalcemia and hypercalcuria may occur secondary to bone loss during metabolic acidosis. Renal calculi may occur, especially in patients with an alkaline urine, due to precipitation of calcium phosphate (Kroeger et al, 1980).

GASTROINTESTINAL FINDINGS: One of the main presenting syndromes in chronic toluene abusers is gastrointestinal, with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and/or hematemesis (HSDB , 2002; Streicher et al, 1981).

RENAL TUBULAR ACIDOSIS: Transient distal renal tubular acidosis (RTA) may be found in up to 44% of paint sniffers who have been hospitalized (Voigts & Kaufman, 1983). Hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia and urine pH greater than 5.5 are found, usually accompanied by rapidly reversible renal insufficiency (Voights & Kaufman, 1983a; Kamijo et al, 1998). Proximal renal tubular acidosis is less common (Voights & Kaufman, 1983; Streicher et al, 1981)

COMPLICATIONS: Severe muscle weakness (often quadriparesis) due to profound hypokalemia often dominates the clinical presentation (Streicher et al, 1981; Kamijo et al, 1998).

ACUTE RENAL FAILURE: Isolated cases of acute renal failure secondary to interstitial nephritis, myoglobinuria, or acute toxic tubular necrosis have been reported after workplace exposure, accidental ingestion, and glue sniffing (Voights & Kaufman, 1983; Gupta et al, 1991).

GLOMERULONEPHRITIS: Isolated cases of glomerulonephritis have been reported in patients exposed to toluene in both the work setting (Bosch et al, 1988) and through glue sniffing (Bonzel et al, 1987).

MENSTRUAL ABNORMALITIES: Menstrual abnormalities and uterine or vaginal prolapse have been reported in female workers exposed to toluene (CESARS , 1990; Ng et al, 1992). Other abnormalities reported included dysmenorrhea (Snyder, 1987), hypermenorrhea, and polymenorrhea (CESARS , 1990; Ng et al, 1992).

UTERINE PROLAPSE: An increased incidence of uterine and vaginal wall prolapse occurred in female workers exposed to toluene compared with a control group (CESARS , 1990).

HEARING LOSS: Although data are limited, toluene is considered an ototoxin that has the potential to cause irreversible hearing loss (Goldfrank, 1998). Two cases of hearing loss have been reported in humans after chronic inhalation abuse (Williams, 1988; Ehyai & Freemon, 1983). Toluene may also be ototoxic with chronic occupational exposure (Morata et al, 1994; Morata et al, 1997).

OCULAR IRRITATION: Toluene is a strong eye irritant, causing reversible superficial injury after splash contact, healing within 48 hours. Findings include immediate, severe burning pain, blepharospasm, moderate conjunctival hyperemia, and corneal edema (Grant & Schuman, 1993; Lewis, 2000). With chronic inhalation exposure, decreased color discrimination, optic atrophy with blindness, and pendular nystagmus (in patients with atrophy or visual dysfunction) have been reported (Ehyai & Freemon, 1983; Maas et al, 1991).

OPTIC NEUROPATHY: Optic neuropathy resulting from exposure has been documented to produce bilateral vision loss (Baxter et al, 2000). Optic atrophy with sensorineural hearing loss has also been described in specific cases (Ehyai & Freemon, 1983; Williams, 1988).

NYSTAGMUS: Ocular flutter, opsoclonus and dysmetria have been associated with toluene exposure (Baxter et al, 2000).

DECREASED COLOR DISCRIMINATION: Decreased color discrimination and decreased accuracy in visual perception were reported in printers exposed to 100 parts/million, after having been exposed to solvents for 9 to 25 years (CESARS , 1990).

ABNORMAL VISUAL POTENTIALS: Abnormalities in visual evoked potentials (greater amplitudes) were demonstrated in toluene exposed workers in one study (Vrca et al, 1995).

MYELOSUPPRESSION: Hematological abnormalities including bone marrow dysplasia (Hathaugy et al, 1991) and anemia (Snyder, 1987; Bosch et al, 1988) have been reported in patients exposed to toluene.

COAGULOPATHY: Increased coagulation time and hypoprothrombinemia were reported in workers in a pharmaceutical plant (Clayton & Clayton, 1981).

HEPATIC FAILURE: Hepatorenal failure has been reported in cases of toluene abuse and occupational exposure (O'Brien et al, 1971; Taverner et al, 1988; Knight et al, 1991).

HEPATOMEGALY: Hepatomegaly has been documented in cases of toluene exposure (Baxter et al, 2000; Zenz, 1994).

LIVER STEATOSIS: Fatty liver and increased ALT/AST ratio has been associated with chronic workplace exposure, but concurrent alcohol use has been a confounding variable and a cause-effect relationship is unproven; alcoholism increased the risk of severe steatosis in animal studies (Guzelian et al, 1988; Howell et al, 1986; Shiomi et al, 1993).

RHABDOMYOLYSIS: Rhabdomyolysis is present in as many as 40% of chronic toluene abusers, secondary to hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia, compression ischemia in comatose patients, or direct muscle toxicity (Karmakar & Roxburgh, 2008; Shannon, 1987; Streicher et al, 1981).

MUSCLE WEAKNESS: Muscle weakness has been reported amongst patients who were admitted with symptoms from paint sniffing (Streicher et al, 1981).

HYPOTONIC MUSCLE TONE was noted in a habitual toluene sniffer. Muscle atrophy and weakness were not seen (HSDB , 2002).

CNS EXCITATION: Transient CNS excitation (ie, euphoria, giddiness, tremors, nervousness, insomnia) followed by CNS depression is common after exposure to 400 to 800 parts/million (Snyder, 1987). Chronic exposure has led to hyperreflexia and tremors (HSDB , 2002; CESARS , 1990).

CNS DEPRESSION: Even with reported CNS excitation, toluene is a central nervous system depressant in animals and humans (ACGIH, 1991). CNS depression follows excitation after exposure to 400 to 800 parts per million, with signs/symptoms of headache, dizziness, fatigue, drowsiness, lassitude, confusion, hilarity, vertigo, increased reaction time, and perceptual speed (ACGIH, 1991).

ATAXIA: Intentional inhalational abuse, with very high concentrations, can result in cerebellar ataxia and cognitive dysfunction (ACGIH, 1991). The effects can be severe and are likely to be permanent in individuals with a history of chronic misuse (ie, glue sniffing) (Karmakar & Roxburgh, 2008).

Reversible acute behavioral effects after a single toluene inhalation exposure to over 100 parts per million may be a sign of CNS impairment leading to irreversible performance loss with repeated exposure (Escheverria et al, 1989).

ENCEPHALOPATHY: Progressive, irreversible mixed encephalopathy with cognitive difficulty and cerebellar ataxia, and organic affective syndromes have occurred after chronic workplace or abuse exposures (HSDB , 2002; Larsen & Leira, 1988). Permanent encephalopathy was reported in a man who inhaled toluene regularly for over 14 years (HSDB , 2002).

RADIOGRAPHIC CHANGES: MRI of chronic abusers showed abnormal gray-white differentiation, with white matter changes consistent with disruption of myelin (Maas et al, 1991; Rosenberg et al, 1988).

SECONDARY PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY: Patients have developed peripheral neuropathy following hospitalization for sniffing paints (Streicher et al, 1981). The onset has been reported months to years after chronic abuse (King et al, 1985; Shannon, 1987). In some cases, the neuropathy has been attributed to other ingredients in the glue (hexane, methyl ethyl ketone) or concurrent drug abuse (Snyder, 1987).

SEIZURE: Isolated cases of grand mal epilepsy, status epilepticus, choreoathetosis, temporal lobe epilepsy, and opisthotonus have been reported in chronic abusers of toluene (Arthur & Curnock, 1982; Bartolucci & Pellettier, 1984; Byrne & Zibin, 1991).

HYPERREFLEXIA: Cases of hyperreflexia have been reported in patients exposed chronically to toluene. Manifestations included postural tremor of the fingers with rhythmic myoclonic jerks of the right upper limb (Sugiyama-Oishi et al, 2000) and hyperactive muscle stretch reflexes with unsustained clonus at the ankles (CESARS , 1990). Bilateral Babinski signs were also present (CESARS , 1990).

DIZZINESS: Dizziness has been reported in toluene-exposed workers (Ukai et al, 1993).

PSYCHOTIC DISORDER: A male worker exposed to toluene for 5 years was diagnosed with undifferentiated schizophrenia with loosening of associations. It was concluded that toluene was associated with an irreversible schizophreniform psychosis (CESARS , 1990). In a review of 22 patients with a history of chronic solvent abuse (mainly toluene in 21 cases), acute paranoid psychosis with auditory and visual hallucinations was diagnosed in 18 patients. A confused state accompanied the psychosis in 16 patients (Byrne & Zibin, 1991).

DEPRESSION: Major depression coinciding with toluene exposure has been reported (Levy et al, 1994).

RESPIRATORY FAILURE: Patients have presented with respiratory failure following exposure to toluene inhalants (Chowdhury, 1977; Cronk et al, 1985).

PNEUMONITIS: Chemical pneumonitis has been reported after aspiration (Snyder, 1987) and in one patient that had been lying in toluene for an estimated 18 hours (Reisin et al, 1975).

ASPHYXIATION: Toluene abusers may asphyxiate while inhaling from a plastic bag (CESARS , 1990).

BRONCHOSPASM: An obstructive ventilatory pattern was present in 9 of 10 subjects who had abused spray paint for an average of 34.9 months (Reyes de la Roche et al, 1987).

BRADYPNEA, CASE REPORT: A 34-year-old man, chronically addicted to paint thinner, presented to the hospital with a respiratory rate of 6 breaths/minute, hypotension, and a pulse of 45 beats/minute after an acute inhalation of paint thinner containing 50% toluene (Einav et al, 1997).

There have been cases of aplastic anemia from toluene in industrial exposures and also in glue sniffers (ACGIH, 1992). Increased coagulation time and reduced clotting factors have also been found, indicators of damage to the bone marrow (Clayton & Clayton, 1994).

Most reviewers interpret these effects on the blood as being due to low levels of benzene as a contaminant of toluene. The question of whether or not pure toluene is myelosuppressive remains open (ACGIH, 1991).

Emesis is NOT indicated due to the possibility of aspiration.

May induce emesis and increase the risk of aspiration. Charcoal should only be considered after recent, substantial ingestion. Endotracheal intubation should be performed first in any patient with decreased mental status.

PREHOSPITAL ACTIVATED CHARCOAL ADMINISTRATION

CHARCOAL DOSE

Move victim to fresh air.

Call 911 or emergency medical service.

Give artificial respiration if victim is not breathing.

Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

In case of contact with substance, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

Wash skin with soap and water.

Keep victim warm and quiet.

In case of burns, immediately cool affected skin for as long as possible with cold water. Do not remove clothing if adhering to skin.

Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves.

FIRST AID

INHALATION EXPOSURE

DERMAL EXPOSURE

EYE EXPOSURE

ORAL EXPOSURE

ADULT

LDLo: (ORAL) HUMAN: 50 mg/kg (RTECS , 2002)

Workers repeatedly exposed at 200 to 500 ppm have reported loss of coordination, memory loss, loss of appetite, and reversible disorders of the optic nerves. Concentrations above this up to 1500 ppm have caused similar, but more severe effects. Exposure to air concentrations of toluene from 10,000 to 30,000 ppm may cause mental confusion, inebriation, and unconsciousness with a few minutes (Baselt, 2000a).

200 to 500 ppm may cause headache, nausea, and giddiness (OHM/TADS , 2002).

SYMPTOMS at 200 parts per million: Mild upper respiratory tract irritation (Bingham et al, 2001).

SYMPTOMS at 400 parts per million: Mild eye irritation, lacrimation, and hilarity (Bingham et al, 2001).

SYMPTOMS at 600 parts per million: Lassitude, hilarity, and slight nausea (Bingham et al, 2001).

SYMPTOMS at 600 TO 800 parts per million (ppm): Some subjects exposed to toluene concentrations of 600 to 800 ppm for 3 hours developed severe fatigue, extreme nausea, confusion, and a staggering gait (Finkel, 1983).

SYMPTOMS AT 800 parts per million: Rapid dermal, mucosal, and eye irritation, nasal mucous secretion, metallic taste in the mouth, drowsiness, and impaired balance (Bingham et al, 2001).

CASE REPORT: A 14-year-old female was brought to the emergency department (ED) because of confusion, episodes of laughing and crying, and disorientation to time and place. She admitted to sniffing contact glue several times daily for the past 5 days. Four hours after ED admission, urine hippuric acid was found to be 93.9 g/g creatinine, indicative of massive toluene exposure (Raikhlin-Eisenkraft et al, 2001).

NOAEL/CHRONIC: In one study, employees from 14 magazine rotary printing plants (n=192) were examined to determine the cognitive effects of long-term exposure to toluene (below 50 parts per million (ppm)). The authors found no evidence of impaired neuropsychological performance due to long-term toluene exposure below 50 ppm (Seeber et al, 2004).

ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, 2010): A4 ; Listed as: Toluene

EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2011): Inadequate evidence to assess carcinogenic potential ; Listed as: Toluene

IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), 2016; International Agency for Research on Cancer, 2015; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2010; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2010a; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2008; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2007; IARC Working Group on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2006; IARC, 2004): 3 ; Listed as: Toluene

NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 2007): Not Listed ; Listed as: Toluene

MAK (DFG, 2002): Not Listed

NTP (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, National Toxicology Project ): Not Listed

Oral:

Inhalation:

Drinking Water:

References: Bingham et al, 2001 Lewis, 2000 OHM/TADS, 2002 RTECS, 2002

References: Bingham et al, 2001 Lewis, 2000 OHM/TADS, 2002 RTECS, 2002

1 ppm = 3.77 mg/m(3) (at 1 atm) (Bingham et al, 2001)

1 mg/m(3) = 0.26 ppm (Verschueren, 2001)

1 ppm = 3.83 mg/m(3) (Verschueren, 2001)

1 ppm = 3.76 mg/m(3) (HSDB , 2002)

1 mg/L = 226 ppm (HSDB , 2002)

Editor's Note: The listed values are recommendations or guidelines developed by ACGIH(R) to assist in the control of health hazards. They should only be used, interpreted and applied by individuals trained in industrial hygiene. Before applying these values, it is imperative to read the introduction to each section in the current TLVs(R) and BEI(R) Book and become familiar with the constraints and limitations to their use. Always consult the Documentation of the TLVs(R) and BEIs(R) before applying these recommendations and guidelines.

Not Listed

Listed as: Toluene

REL:

IDLH:

Listed as: Toluene

Table Z-1 for Toluene:

Table Z-2 for Toluene (Z37.12-1967):

Not Listed

Listed as: Toluene

Final Reportable Quantity, in pounds (kilograms):

Additional Information: The following spent non-halogenated solvents and the still bottoms from the recovery of these solvents. (F005)

Listed as: Toluene

Final Reportable Quantity, in pounds (kilograms):

Additional Information:

Listed as: Benzene, methyl-

Final Reportable Quantity, in pounds (kilograms):

Additional Information:

Not Listed

Listed as: Benzene, methyl-

P or U series number: U220

Footnote:

Listed as: Toluene

P or U series number: U220

Footnote:

Editor's Note: The D, F, and K series waste numbers and Appendix VIII to Part 261 -- Hazardous Constituents were not included. Please refer to 40 CFR Part 261.

Not Listed

Listed as: Toluene

Effective Date for Reporting Under 40 CFR 372.30: 1/1/87

Lower Thresholds for Chemicals of Special Concern under 40 CFR 372.28:

Not Listed

Listed as: Benzene, methyl-

Hazardous materials descriptions and proper shipping name: Toluene

Proper Shipping Name: Toluene

UN Number: 1294

Listed as: Toluene

Hazard Ratings:

Toluene is a central nervous system depressant and a severe eye and skin irritant. It is toxic by inhalation, ingestion and/or dermal contact. Exposure to toluene vapor and liquid should be avoided (AAR, 2000; Bingham et al, 2001; CHRIS , 2002; NIOSH, 2002) NTP, 2001).

Adequate protective clothing and equipment, including respiratory protection, should be worn at all times when working with or near toluene (AAR, 2000; CHRIS , 2002; NIOSH, 2002).

Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (AAR, 2000; OHM/TADS , 2002).

If toluene contacts the skin, affected areas should be flooded with water and any contaminated clothing removed and isolated. Skin should be gently washed with a soap and water solution (AAR, 2000) NTP, 2001).

If toluene contacts the eyes, first remove contact lenses if present, and flush the eyes with water or a normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes (NTP, 2001).

The usual shipping containers are glass bottles, cans, drums and tanks on trucks, rail cars and barges (NFPA, 1997).

Toluene will attack some plastics, rubber and coatings (Pohanish & Greene, 1997).

Containers should be tightly sealed to prevent evaporation (ATSDR, 1994).

Outside or detached storage is preferred; inside storage should be in a standard flammable liquids storage warehouse, room, or cabinet (ITI, 1995; NFPA, 1997; OHM/TADS , 2002). Sources of ignition (such as smoking or open flames) are prohibited where toluene is stored or handled (NTP, 2001; (Sittig, 1991).

Toluene should be stored in an explosion-proof, refrigerated area with an inert atmosphere. It should be kept away from moisture (CHRIS , 2002) NTP, 2001).

Rooms used to store toluene should be equipped with drench-type showers and eye-wash fountains (HSDB , 2002).

Venting should be open (flame arrester) or pressure-vacuum (CHRIS , 2002).

Separate from oxidizing materials (such as chlorine, bromine and fluorine) to avoid violent reactions (NFPA, 1997; Sittig, 1991).

Toluene can react vigorously with oxidizing materials; toluene vapor is explosive when exposed to heat or flame (Lewis, 2000; Pohanish & Greene, 1997).

Toluene reacts explosively with the following compounds: 1,3-dichloro-5,5-dimethyl-2,4-imidazolididione, dinitrogen tetraoxide, concentrated nitric acid, sulfuric acid plus plus nitric acid, nitrogen tetraoxide, trifluoroborane, uranium trifluoride, sulfur dichloride. Toluene forms an explosive mixture with tetranitromethane (Lewis, 2000).

There is a possible explosion hazard of toluene plus allyl chloride in the presence of dichloroethyl aluminum or ethylaluminum sesquichloride (ITI, 1995).

Toluene will attack some plastics, rubber and coatings (Pohanish & Greene, 1997).

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection.

All data are compiled from published sources and are NOT recommended specifically by Truven Health Analytics. The appearance of specific manufacturers or products in this section does not represent an endorsement by Truven Health Analytics. No attempt has been made to verify the data presented. All product recommendations should be confirmed with the specific manufacturer for verification of product performance.

CLOTHING

FOOTWEAR

GLOVES

GENERAL INFORMATION

COMPANY INFORMATION

REFERENCES

POTENTIAL FIRE OR EXPLOSION HAZARDS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 130 (ERG, 2004)

Toluene is a flammable liquid and is a very dangerous fire hazard when exposed to heat, flame, or oxidizers. Its vapors are heavier than air and may travel to a source of ignition and flash back. Liquid toluene floats on water and may travel to a source of ignition and spread fire. Toluene may accumulate static electricity (CHRIS , 2002; Lewis, 2000; NFPA, 1997).

If toluene is not on fire, keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away from it. Keep it out of water sources and sewers; build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Use water spray to knock down vapors (AAR, 2000).

If toluene is on fire, do not extinguish the fire unless flow can be stopped or safely confined. Use water in flooding quantities as fog; solid streams of water may spread the fire. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water; apply water from as far a distance as possible (AAR, 2000).

Listed as: Toluene

Flammability Rating: 3

Toluene has a flash point of 40 degrees F (4 degrees C) (Lewis, 2000; NIOSH, 2002; NFPA, 1997).

Toluene may accumulate static electricity (NFPA, 1997).

CAUTION: All these products have a very low flash point: Use of water spray when fighting fire may be inefficient.

Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or regular foam.

Water spray, fog or regular foam.

Do not use straight streams.

Move containers from fire area if you can do it without risk.

Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles.

Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire.

For massive fire, use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn.

Listed as: Toluene

Extinguishing Method(s): 1

When heated to decomposition, toluene emits acrid smoke and toxic fumes (Lewis, 2000; NFPA, 1997).

When bromine trifluoride (BrF3) is a frozen solid at minus 80 degrees C, it reacts violently with toluene (Urben, 1999).

A mild steel storage tank containing sulfur dichloride (Cl2S) ruptured by overpressurization after toluene was added. This was caused by the exothermic reaction between toluene and sulfur dichloride which was catalyzed by iron or iron (III) chloride (Urben, 1999).

Interaction between toluene and uranium hexafluoride (UF6) is very vigorous (ITI, 1995; Urben, 1999).

Use proper control in nitration of toluene with mixed acids to avoid runaway or explosive reactions (Urben, 1999).

A mixture of toluene and dinitrogen tetraoxide (N2O4) exploded, possibly due to unsaturated impurities (Urben, 1999).

Tetranitromethane (CN4O8) mixed with hydrocarbons in approximately stoichiometric proportions produces a sensitive, highly explosive mixture. Ten grams of this type of mixture containing excess toluene exploded causing 10 deaths and 20 severe injuries (Urben, 1999).

Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).

If tank, rail car or tank truck is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number:

For additional details see the section entitled "WHO TO CALL FOR ASSISTANCE" under the ERG Instructions.

As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.

Keep unauthorized personnel away.

Stay upwind.

Keep out of low areas.

Ventilate closed spaces before entering.

Listed as Toluene

ERPG-1 (units = ppm): 50

ERPG-2 (units = ppm): 300

ERPG-3 (units = ppm): 1000

Under Ballot, Review, or Consideration: Yes

Definitions:

Listed as Toluene

TEEL-0 (units = ppm): 20

TEEL-1 (units = ppm): 200

TEEL-2 (units = ppm): 1200

TEEL-3 (units = ppm): 4500

Definitions:

Listed as: Toluene

Proposed Value:

Listed as: Toluene

Proposed Value:

Listed as: Toluene

Proposed Value:

IDLH: 500 ppm

Note(s): Not Listed

SPILL OR LEAK PRECAUTIONS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 130 (ERG, 2004)

RECOMMENDED PROTECTIVE CLOTHING - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 130 (ERG, 2004)

Keep people away from the area of the spill. Shut off any ignition sources. Avoid contact with the liquid and vapor. Protect water intakes. Notify local health and safety personnel of the spill (CHRIS , 2002).

Wear full chemical protective clothing and equipment, including positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus, when responding to a toluene spill (NFPA, 1997).

Any contaminated clothing should be removed and placed in a vapor-tight bag or container for later disposal (NTP, 2001).

In case of a toluene leak or spill, first eliminate all ignition sources, then stop or control the leak if it can be done without undue risk. Use water spray to cool and disperse vapors. Absorb spilled chemical in noncombustible material for proper disposal; control runoff and isolate discharged toluene for proper disposal (NFPA, 1997) NTP, 2001).

If toluene is spilled on land, dig a pit, pond, lagoon, or similar holding area to contain liquid or solid material. Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash, cement powder or commercial sorbents. Apply a universal gelling agent to immobilize the spill. Apply appropriate foam to diminish vapor and fire hazard (AAR, 2000).

If toluene is spilled on water, use natural barriers or oil spill control booms to the travel of the spilled material. Use surface active agent (eg, detergent, soaps, alcohols), if approved by EPA. Inject a universal gelling agent to solidify encircled spill and increase effectiveness of booms. If dissolved to 10 parts per million or greater concentration, apply activated carbon at 10 times the spilled amount. Remove trapped material with suction hoses; use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates (AAR, 2000).

Solvent wash all contaminated surfaces with 60% to 70% ethanol, followed by washing with a soap and water solution (NTP, 2001).

LARGE SPILL PRECAUTIONS - EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDEBOOK, GUIDE 130 (ERG, 2004)

A study was done to evaluate 3 systems for removing benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) from contaminated water. System 1 used granular activated charcoal (GAC), system 2 used GAC in conjunction with biological removal, and system 3 used microbial growth without adsorption. The results showed that system 2 gave the best combination of BTX removal and stable operation (Voice et al, 1992).

Waste management activities associated with material disposition are unique to individual situations. Proper waste characterization and decisions regarding waste management should be coordinated with the appropriate local, state, or federal authorities to ensure compliance with all applicable rules and regulations.

Biofiltration, a process in which contaminated air is passed through a biologically active bed, was investigated for the ability to remove toluene from contaminated gas streams. A fungal vapor-phase bioreactor containing a strain of dimorphic black yeast, Exophiala lecanii-corni, was able to remove 270 g/m(3) toluene per hour. Removal efficiencies of greater than 95% were maintained through out the 175-day study; low moisture content, acidic biofilms, and nitrogen limitation did not adversely effect the removal efficiencies. Based upon these results, biofiltration may be an effective alternative to conventional technologies for treating high concentrations of toluene in waste gas streams (Woertz et al, 2001).

Toluene is relatively biodegradable: a scenario in which an initial concentration of 2.22 mcg/L toluene, in the presence of other components of high-octane gasoline, was incubated at 13 degrees C with natural flora in the groundwater which resulted in 100% biodegradation after 192 hours (Verschueren, 2001).

In-situ bioremediation of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and the xylenes (BTEX) was conducted in a fuel-contaminated, oxygen-poor aquifer. Extracted groundwater was enriched with ammonium polyphosphate as nutrient and potassium nitrate as the electron acceptor. It was then piped to an infiltration gallery over the contaminated site. BTEX measurements declined by 78% in the most contaminated well and by nearly 99% in another well. Final data indicated that the BTEX was biodegraded in-situ in the nitrate-enriched aquifer under denitrifying conditions (Gersberg et al, 1995).

Anaerobic growth of 4 pure cultures of denitrifying bacteria occurred with crude oil as the only source of organic substrate. After growth, chemical analysis indicated that toluene and ethylbenzene were selectively consumed from the oil; the pure compounds o-xylene and p-xylene were consumed to a lesser extent (Rabus & Widdel, 1996).

In a static culture flask biodegradation test (original culture) using settled domestic wastewater as the microbial inoculum, 100% of the toluene was degraded in 7 days (Dragun, 1988).

Incineration is a suggested disposal method (Sittig, 1991).

Toluene can be burned under controlled, regulated conditions (HSDB, 2004; OHM/TADS , 2002).

Treat contaminated water by gravity separation of solids followed by skimming the surface. Pass contaminated water through dual media filtration and carbon adsorption units (1:10 kg of carbon to soluble material) (HSDB, 2004).

Toluene can be removed from water or aqueous waste by air stripping. Practical feed concentrations are limited to about 100 mg/L organics. A properly designed and operated packed-tower air stripper can achieve greater than 99% removal of volatile organics from water. Residuals from an air-stripping process include the treated water, often suitable for reuse, and the contaminated off gas (Freeman, 1989).

Overland flow treatment can be an effective method of removing toluene from water. This method is most frequently used in areas where the soils have relatively slow water infiltration rates. Generally, water is allowed to run across the top of a vegetated, gently sloping soil at rates from 6.5 to 40 cm/week; the runoff is collected in ditches and discharged. In a prototype overland flow land treatment system, more than 94% of toluene was removed with an application rate of 0.4 cm/hr at 0.12 m(3)/hr/meter of width (Dragun, 1988).

Toluene is released into the atmosphere primarily through the volatilization of petroleum fuels and toluene-based solvents and thinners and from motor vehicle exhaust. It is also released into various waste streams through its production and use as an intermediate in the production of benzoic acid, benzaldehyde, benzene, explosives, dyes, and many other organic compounds. Toluene may also enter the environment from volcanic emissions, forest fires, and crude oil (HSDB, 2004).

Toluene's high vapor pressure indicates that it will exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere (HSDB, 2004).

When released into the atmosphere, toluene will undergo degradation via photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals. Reactions of toluene with nitrate radicals and ozone molecules may also cause degradation in the atmosphere, however, these reactions are generally considered too slow to be environmentally important (HSDB, 2004; Verschueren, 2001).

Based on measured rate data for the vapor phase reaction with hydroxyl radicals in air, the photo-oxidation half-life of toluene in air ranges from 10 h to 104 h (4.3 days) (Howard et al, 1991).

The estimated half-life for toluene in air, based on photochemical reactions with hydroxyl radicals is 3 days (HSDB, 2004; Verschueren, 2001).

The half-life of toluene for the nighttime reaction with nitrate radicals is estimated to be about 491 days, calculated from its measured rate constant of 6.8 x 10 (-17)cm(3)/molecule-sec at 25 degrees C for the vapor-phase reaction (HSDB, 2004).

The half-life of toluene through reaction with ozone molecules is estimated to be 27,950 days (approximately 76 years) (HSDB, 2004; Verschueren, 2001).

The estimated half-life of toluene in photochemical smog conditions (in Southeast England) is 5.8 hours (Verschueren, 2001).

SURFACE WATER

GROUND WATER

TERRESTRIAL

OTHER

(HSDB, 2004).

Toluene's half-life in groundwater reportedly ranges from 7 days to 4 weeks (based on unacclimated grab sample data of aerobic soil from ground water aquifers) (Howard et al, 1991).

For a marine mesocosm, degradation half-lives of 1.5 to 16 days for toluene have been reported (Verschueren, 2001).

For non-soil media, reported biodegradation half-lives for toluene include the following:

Complete biodegradation of toluene in soils has been observed under laboratory conditions. The rate of degradation is faster in soils previously contaminated with toluene (HSDB, 2004).

Findings on biodegradation half-lives for toluene in soil using various inoculum included the following (Dragun, 1988):

Other findings on toluene biodegradation in soil include:

Toluene can impact microbial biodegradation processes as follows (Verschueren, 2001):

The white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium was demonstrated to degrade toluene and chlorobenzene when in mixture; hence, methyl- as well as chloro-substituted benzenes were simultaneously degraded (Yadav et al, 1995).

Toluene does not bioaccumulate at high levels in fish and shellfish; it is generally metabolized and the metabolites excreted (ATSDR, 1994).

AQUATIC

ALGAE (Selenastrum capricornutum): 98 (BCF) (Verschueren, 2001)

ALGAE (Chlorella fusca): 380 (BCF, wet wt) (Verschueren, 2001)

MUSSELS (Mytilus edulis): 4.2 (BCF) (Verschueren, 2001)

EELS (Anguilla japonica): 13 (BCF); half-life period of 1.4 days (Verschueren, 2001)

FATHEAD MINNOW: 91 (BCF) (Verschueren, 2001)

GOLDFISH: 8 (BCF) (Verschueren, 2001)

GOLDEN IDE FISH: 90 (BCF) (HSDB, 2004)

Bioconcentration of toluene in aquatic organisms is expected to be low to moderate (HSDB, 2004).

0.866 (at 20/4 degrees C) (Budavari, 2000; ITI, 1995; Lewis, 2000; OHM/TADS , 2002)

0.87 (Bingham et al, 2001; NFPA, 1997; NIOSH, 2002)

0.9 (NFPA, 1997)

0.8869 (at 20.4 degrees C) (Bingham et al, 2001)

-139 degrees F; -95 degrees C; 178.2 K (CHRIS , 2002; Lewis, 2000; NIOSH, 2002)

-94.99 degrees C (Bingham et al, 2001)

-95 to -94.5 degrees C (Lewis, 2000)

-95 degrees C; -139 degrees F (Bingham et al, 2001; Budavari, 2000; ILO, 1998; ITI, 1995; NFPA, 1997; OHM/TADS , 2002)

178.16 K (Lide, 1993)

-95.1 degrees C (Verschueren, 2001)

-94.9 degrees C (HSDB , 2002)

1.27% (CHRIS , 2002; Lewis, 2000)

1.2% (ILO, 1998; NFPA, 1997; OHM/TADS , 2002)

1.1% (NIOSH, 2002)

1.4% (Bingham et al, 2001; ITI, 1995)

7% (CHRIS , 2002; Lewis, 2000)

7.1% (ILO, 1998; NFPA, 1997; NIOSH, 2002; OHM/TADS , 2002)

6.7% (ITI, 1995)

7.9% (Bingham et al, 2001)

This compound is very slightly soluble in water (Budavari, 2000; ILO, 1998).

This compound is insoluble in water (Bingham et al, 2001; Lewis, 2000; ITI, 1995).

This compound is miscible with alcohol, chloroform, ether, acetone, glacial acetic acid, and carbon disulfide (Budavari, 2000; ITI, 1995).

It is miscible with most organic solvents (Ashford, 1994).

This compound is soluble in acetone and miscible in absolute alcohol, ether, and chloroform (Bingham et al, 2001; Lewis, 2000).

3574 (Coblentz Society Spectral Collection) (HSDB , 2002)

155 (Stadler Research Laboratories Spectral Collection) (HSDB , 2002)

189 (Atlas of Mass Spectral Data, John Wiley & Sons, New York) (HSDB , 2002)

0.088 cm(2)/sec (at 30 degrees C) (Dragun, 1988)

17.17 calorie/g (CHRIS , 2002)

157 (Varian Associates NMR Spectra Catalogue) (HSDB , 2002)