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Hazards of Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol is a widely used solvent, and a common ingredient of commercial products like rubbing alcohol. The chemical is subject to regulation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, and appears on the Right-to-Know Hazardous Substance List. It also appears on the Special Health Hazard Substance List because it is flammable.

  1. Direct Contact

    • Direct contact with isopropyl alcohol can cause irritation and burning of the skin and eyes. Repeated skin exposure may cause intense itching, rashes, redness, cracking and drying. When working with isopropyl alcohol, limit your exposure by wearing proper safety equipment such as goggles and rubber gloves. In the event of skin contact, immediately flush the affected area with water to reduce the chance of any side effects. In the event of eye contact, flush the eyes immediately with water for at least 15 minutes.

    Inhalation

    • Inhalation of isopropyl alcohol vapor may irritate the throat and nose. Headaches, confusion, drowsiness, loss of coordination, loss of consciousness and even death may occur as a result of overexposure to isopropyl alcohol vapor. Use of isopropyl alcohol requires adequate ventilation. Higher concentrations of vapor may require use of a respirator.

    Flammability

    • Isopropyl alcohol has a flammability rating of 3, as assigned by the National Fire Protection Association. This means that it is a severe fire hazard. Do not smoke near the chemical, and avoid other sources of heat, sparks or flame. The flash point of isopropyl alcohol is 53 degrees Fahrenheit. Its autoignition temperature is 750 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Ingestion

    • Isopropyl alcohol is a clear liquid that resembles water. Without proper labeling, marking and storage procedures, it may be mistaken for a beverage. Seek medical attention immediately if you swallow any amount of isopropyl alcohol. Symptoms of ingestion range from gastrointestinal irritation and headache, to loss of consciousness and --- in severe cases --- death. In the event of ingestion, medical professionals will normally test liver and kidney function, as the chemical can damage these organs.

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