Section V -- Reactivity Data
Stability
Unstable
Conditions to Avoid
Very Hygroscopic. Can slowly pick up moisture from air and react with
X
Stable
CO2 in air to form sodium carbonate.
Incompatibility (Materials to Avoid)
Acids, flammable liquids, chlorinated organic CMPOS, organic peroxides, metals
Hazardous Decomposition or Byproducts
Sodium oxide
Hazardous
May Occur
Conditions to Avoid
Polymerization
N/A
X
Will Not Occur
Section VI -- Health Hazard Data
Route((s) of Entry:
Inhalation?
Skin?
Ingestion?
Yes
Yes
Yes
Health Hazards (Acute and Chronic)
Eyes: Corrosive, irritation, burns, blindness. Skin: Corrosive, irritation, burns, scarring. Inhalation: Severe
irritation. Damage to upper respiratory tract. Severe pneumonitis may occur. Ingestion: Corrosive, burns
mouth, throat, stomach, death.
Carcinogenity:
NTP?
IARC Monographs?
OSHA Regulated?
No
No
No
Signs and Symptoms of Exposure
Irritation to severe burns of skin and eyes. Abdominal pain, bloody vomiting and diarrhea, sore throat,
coughing and dyspnea.
Medical Conditions
Generally Aggreviated by Exposure Skin disorders or eye problems or impaired respiratory function.
Emergency and First Aid Procedures
Eyes/Skin: Flush with water for at least 15 min. Remove clothes. Get immediate medical help. DO NOT
induce vomiting. Give water/milk followed by citrus fruit juice.
Section VII -- Precautions for Safe Handling and Use
Steps to Be Taken in Case Material Is Released or Spilled
Clean-up personnel require protective clothing and respiratory protection from dust. Sweep, scoop or pick up
spilled material. Avoid dusting. DO NOT flush to sewer. Neutralize residue with 5% acetic acid.
Waste Disposal Method
Transfer waste to DOT approved container for shipment to approved disposal facility. Local/State/Federal
regulations must be followed.
Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storing
Store in cool, dry, well ventilated, low fire risk area. Protect from heat, shock, friction. Keep containers closed.
Other Precautions
Keep from incompatible materials. Always add the caustic to the water while stirring, never the reverse.
Section VIII
Respiratory Protection (Specify Type)
Dust/mist respirator with chemical goggles for up to 10 times TLV.
Ventilation
Local Exhaust
Special
Recommended
N/A
Mechanical (General)
Other
Recommended
N/A
Protective Gloves
Eye Protection
Impervious rubber
Safety goggles and/or full face shield
Other protective Clothing or Equipment
Boots, lab coat, apron, coveralls to prevent skin contact. Safety shower.
Work/Hygienic Practices
Wash thoroughly after handling.
Page 2
U.S.G.P.O.: 1986-491-529/45775
Figure 2-1. MSDS for Sodium Hydroxide (continued)
