Section 1 - CHEMICAL PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION

PRODUCT NAME

OCTYLDECYLMETHYLAMINE

NFPA

PRODUCT USE

Intermediate.

SYNONYMS

C19-H41-N, "1-decanamine, N-methyl-N-octyl-", "1-decanamine, N-methyl-N-octyl-",
decylmethyloctylamine, alkylamine

Section 2 - HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION

CANADIAN WHMIS SYMBOLS

None

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW

RISK

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.  Ingestion may result in nausea, pain, vomiting. Vomit entering the lungs by aspiration may cause potentially lethal chemical pneumonitis.  Amines without benzene rings when swallowed are absorbed throughout the gut. Corrosive action may cause damage throughout the gastrointestinal tract. They are removed through the liver, kidney and intestinal mucosa by enzyme breakdown.  

EYE

  There is some evidence to suggest that this material can causeeye irritation and damage in some persons.  The material may produce moderate eye irritation leading to inflammation. Repeated or prolonged exposure to irritants may produce conjunctivitis.  Vapors of volatile amines irritate the eyes, causing excessive secretion of tears, inflammation of the conjunctiva and slight swelling of the cornea, resulting in "halos" around lights. This effect is temporary, lasting only for a few hours. However this condition can reduce the efficiency of undertaking skilled tasks, such as driving a car. Direct eye contact with liquid volatile amines may produce eye damage, permanent for the lighter species.  

SKIN

  The material is not thought to produce adverse health effects or skin irritation following contact (as classified using animal models). Nevertheless, good hygiene practice requires that exposure be kept to a minimum and that suitable gloves be used in an occupational setting.  The liquid may produce skin discomfort following prolonged contact. Defatting and/or drying of the skin may lead to dermatitis.  The material may cause 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.  Volatile amine vapors produce irritation and inflammation of the skin. Direct contact can cause burns. They may be absorbed through the skin and cause similar effects to swallowing, leading to death. The skin may exhibit whiteness, redness and wheals.  

INHALED

  Inhalation may produce health damage*.  There is some evidence to suggest that this material, if inhaled, can irritate the throat and lungs of some persons.  Inhalation hazard is increased at higher temperatures.  Inhalation of vapor may aggravate a pre-existing respiratory condition.  Inhalation of amine vapors may cause irritation of the mucous membrane of the nose and throat, and lung irritation with respiratory distress and cough. Swelling and inflammation of the respiratory tract is seen in serious cases; with headache, nausea, faintness and anxiety There may also be wheezing.  

CHRONIC HEALTH EFFECTS

  Principal routes of exposure are usually by skin contact/absorption and inhalation of vapor.  No human exposure data available. For this reason health effects described are based on experience with chemically related materials.  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.