Section 1 - CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION

PRODUCT NAME

QUEST CASSIA OIL

NFPA

PRODUCT USE

Used in small amounts as flavouring in food preparation.

SYNONYMS

cinnam, "oil of cassia", "kassia oil", "cinnamon oils chinese ceylon", "cinnamon bark
oil", "Specification No. 410264"

Section 2 - HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION

CANADIAN WHMIS SYMBOLS

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW

RISK

Toxic in contact with skin.
Irritating to skin.
May cause SENSITIZATION by skin contact.
HARMFUL - May cause lung damage if swallowed.

POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS

ACUTE HEALTH EFFECTS

SWALLOWED

  Although ingestion is not thought to produce harmful effects, the material may still be damaging to the health of the individual following ingestion, especially where pre-  existing organ (e.g. liver, kidney) damage is evident. Present definitions of harmful or toxic substances are generally based on doses producing mortality (death) rather than those producing morbidity (disease, ill-health). Gastrointestinal tract discomfort may produce nausea and vomiting. In an occupational setting however, ingestion of insignificant quantities is not thought to be cause for concern.  Considered an unlikely route of entry in commercial/industrial environments.  Essential oils cause mild irritation of the mouth if taken orally, causing more saliva to be produced and a warm feeling. Large amounts affect the digestive system causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Sometimes urination may be affected, causing difficulty or pain in urinating, reduced urine output, blood in the urine, unconsciousness and shallow breathing. Lung swelling and inflammation are possible complications. Stupor, excitement and respiratory failure may result, as well as convulsions; the central nervous system may either be depressed or stimulated. The kidneys may be damaged, and swelling and severe clogging can occur in the lungs, skin and kidneys. Essential oils increase the rate of miscarriage, but in low doses do not usually cause an abortion.  

EYE

  There is some evidence to suggest that this material can causeeye irritation and damage in some persons.  

SKIN

  Skin contact with the material may produce toxic effects; systemic effectsmay result following absorption.  This material can cause inflammation of the skin oncontact in some persons.  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.  Essential oils irritate the skin and redden it, causing at first warmth and smarting, followed by some local loss of sensation. They have been used to treat chronic inflammatory conditions and to relieve neuralgia and rheumatic pain. Care should be taken to avoid blistering; these oils may also produce sensitization.  Toxic effects may result from skin absorption.  

INHALED

  Inhalation may produce health damage*.  The material is not thought to produce respiratory irritation (as classified using animal models). Nevertheless inhalation of the material, especially for prolonged periods, may produce respiratory discomfort and occasionally, distress.  Inhalation hazard is increased at higher temperatures.  Inhalation of essential oil volatiles may cause dizziness, rapid, shallow breathing, increased heart rate, respiratory irritation, loss of consciousness or convulsions. Urination may stop, and there may be swelling and inflammation of the lungs.  

CHRONIC HEALTH EFFECTS

  Skin contact with the material is more likely to cause a sensitization reaction in some persons compared to the general population.  

  Principal routes of exposure are usually by skin contact/absorption and inhalation of vapor.  Acute effects from inhalation of high concentrations of vapor may be nose, throat and chest irritation with coughing, sneezing and possible nausea.  Prolonged or continuous skin contact with the liquid may cause defatting with drying, cracking, irritation and dermatitis following.  Ingestion may result in nausea, abdominal irritation, pain and vomiting.  Symptoms may include mental confusion.  As with any chemical product, contact with unprotected bare skin; inhalation of vapor, mist or dust in work place atmosphere; or ingestion in any form, should be avoided by observing good occupational work practice.