Industrial solvents are powerful substances. No matter what kind of solvent you use, whether on a daily or infrequent basis, be sure you know the chemical properties, understand the health hazards, and follow the correct handling procedures before you use it.
There are some simple steps you can take to protect yourself and your coworkers from the harmful effects of solvents. Be an informed user of solvents. Use appropriate ventilation equipment. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE). Handle solvents with care. And, always clean up and dispose of solvents and solvent residue in a safe and responsible manner.
What is a solvent?
A solvent is any substance that dissolves something else. A very simple example of a solvent is water. Many common household products contain solvents: charcoal lighter fluid, windshield washer fluid, paint, or household cleaners.
Industrial solvents are used for:
• Cleaning.
• Degreasing.
• Removing paint, ink, or other coatings.
• Producing adhesives, paints, inks, coatings, varnishes, and other sealers.
Recognize the health hazards
Use the product's material safety data sheet (MSDS) to help you understand a solvent's health hazards. There may be serious health hazards associated with overexposure to some solvents.
Typical routes of entry for solvent overexposures include breathing the solvent’s vapors or direct contact with the solvent.
Most solvents are irritants and many are central nervous system depressants. Short-term, acute, effects can include dizziness and nausea. Skin contact can cause irritation, dryness, itching, or dermatitis. Long-term overexposure to some solvents can lead to chronic diseases, even cancer.
Know the physical hazards
The physical hazards of the solvents used in your workplace are explained in the product’s MSDS. Many solvents are combustible or flammable liquids. This means that they can easily ignite and burn. Acetone and methanol are examples of flammable solvents. Many types of petroleum distillates have a higher flash point and are considered to be combustible liquids.
Use solvents safely
This information is provided by: Assurance Agency
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