NFPA 704 (Section 16)
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
Benzene MSDS No. 0166
1. CHEMICAL PRODUCT and COMPANY INFORMATION (rev. Jan-99)
HOVENSA L.L.C.
1 Estate Hope
Christiansted, VI 00820-5652
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBER (24 hrs): CHEMTREC (800) 424-9300
COMPANY CONTACT (business hours): Safety Department (340) 692-3000
SYNONYMS: Benzol; Coal Naphtha; coal tar naphtha; Cyclohexatriene; Phenyl hydride
See Section 16 for Abbreviations and Acronyms.
2. COMPOSITION and INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS (rev. Apr-98)
CONCENTRATION
INGREDIENT NAME EXPOSURE LIMITS PERCENT BY WEIGHT
OSHA PEL-TWA/STEL: 1 / 5 ppm 100
Benzene
ACGIH TLV-TWA: 0.5 / 2.5 ppm, A1, skin
CAS NUMBER: 71-43-2
US Coast Guard: same as OSHA
3. HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION (rev. Apr-98; Tox-98)
EMERGENCY OVERVIEW
DANGER!
FLAMMABLE - BLOOD TOXIN AND CARCINOGEN - ABSORBED THROUGH THE SKIN - CENTRAL
NERVOUS SYSTEM - HARMFUL OR FATAL IF SWALLOWED - ASPIRATION HAZARD
High fire hazard. Keep away from heat, spark, open flame, and other ignition sources.
If ingested, do NOT induce vomiting, as this may cause chemical pneumonia (fluid in the lungs). Contact
may cause eye, skin and mucous membrane irritation. Harmful if absorbed through the skin. Avoid
prolonged breathing of vapors or mists. Inhalation may cause irritation, anesthetic effects (dizziness,
nausea, headache, intoxication), and respiratory system effects.
Long-term exposure may cause blood disease, including anemia and leukemia.
EYES
Moderate to severe irritant. Contact with liquid or vapor may cause irritation.
SKIN
Moderate to severe irritant. May cause skin irritation with prolonged or repeated contact. Practically non-
toxic if absorbed following acute (single) exposure. Liquid may be absorbed through the skin in toxic
amounts if large areas of skin are exposed repeatedly.
INGESTION
The major health threat of ingestion occurs from the danger of aspiration (breathing) of liquid drops into
the lungs, particularly from vomiting. Aspiration may result in chemical pneumonia (fluid in the lungs),
severe lung damage, respiratory failure and even death.
Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal disturbances, including irritation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, and
central nervous system (brain) effects similar to alcohol intoxication. In severe cases, tremors,
convulsions, loss of consciousness, coma, respiratory arrest, and death may occur.
INHALATION
Excessive exposure may cause irritation to the nose, throat, lungs and respiratory tract. Central nervous
system (brain) effects may include headache, dizziness, loss of balance and coordination,
unconsciousness, coma, respiratory failure, and death.
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MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
Benzene MSDS No. 0166
Effects to the blood (including decreased platelet and white blood cell counts), cardiovascular system,
nervous system, retina, lungs, gastrointestinal system, spleen, and kidneys have been reported from
large, acute (short) and repeated or prolonged exposures.
CHRONIC EFFECTS and CARCINOGENICITY
Benzene is a regulated human carcinogen. Benzene has the potential to cause bone marrow depression,
aplastic anemia (low red blood cell count) and other blood diseases, including leukemia, after repeated
and prolonged exposure. Benzene can cause liver and kidney toxicity.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AGGRAVATED BY EXPOSURE
Irritation from skin exposure may aggravate existing open wounds, skin disorders, and dermatitis (rash).
Pre-existing chronic respiratory disease, liver or kidney dysfunction, or blood, cardiovascular and central
nervous system disorders may be aggravated by exposure.
4. FIRST AID MEASURES (rev. Apr-98)
EYES
In case of contact with eyes, immediately flush with clean, low-pressure water for at least 15 min. Hold
eyelids open to ensure adequate flushing. Seek medical attention.
SKIN
Remove contaminated clothing. Wash contaminated areas thoroughly with soap and water or waterless
hand cleanser. Obtain medical attention if irritation or redness develops.
INGESTION
DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. Do not give liquids. Obtain immediate medical attention. If spontaneous
vomiting occurs, lean victim forward to reduce the risk of aspiration. Small amounts of material which
enter the mouth should be rinsed out until the taste is dissipated.
INHALATION
Remove person to fresh air. If person is not breathing, ensure an open airway and provide artificial
respiration. If necessary, provide additional oxygen once breathing is restored if trained to do so. Seek
medical attention immediately.
NOTE TO PHYSICIAN
OSHA and US Coast Guard require that a person exposed to benzene in an emergency have a urine
sample taken at the end of the shift and have a urine phenol test performed within 72 hours. For results
equal to or greater than 75 ml/L of urine, employees must have a complete blood count every month for
three months after the emergency exposure. See OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1028 or USCG 49 CFR 193.
5. FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES (rev. Jan-99)
FLAMMABLE PROPERTIES:
o o
FLASH POINT: 12 F (-11 C)
o o
AUTOIGNITION TEMPERATURE: 928 F (498 C)
OSHA/NFPA FLAMMABILITY CLASS: 1B (flammable liquid)
LOWER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT (%): 1.3%
UPPER EXPLOSIVE LIMIT (%): 7.9%
FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS
Vapors may be ignited rapidly when exposed to heat, spark, open flame or other source of ignition.
Flowing product may be ignited by self-generated static electricity. When mixed with air and exposed to
an ignition source, flammable vapors can burn in the open or explode in confined spaces. Being heavier
than air, vapors may travel long distances to an ignition source and flash back. Runoff to sewer may
cause fire or explosion hazard.
EXTINGUISHING MEDIA
SMALL FIRES: Any extinguisher suitable for Class B fires, dry chemical, CO2, water spray, fire fighting
foam, or Halon.
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MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
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LARGE FIRES: Water spray, fog or fire fighting foam. Water may be ineffective for fighting the fire, but
may be used to cool fire-exposed containers.
FIRE FIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS
Small fires in the incipient (beginning) stage may typically be extinguished using handheld portable fire
extinguishers and other fire fighting equipment.
Firefighting activities that may result in potential exposure to high heat, smoke or toxic by-products of
combustion should require NIOSH/MSHA- approved pressure-demand self-contained breathing apparatus
with full facepiece and full protective clothing.
Isolate area around container involved in fire. Cool tanks, shells, and containers exposed to fire and
excessive heat with water. For massive fires the use of unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles may
be advantageous to further minimize personnel exposure. Major fires may require withdrawal, allowing
the tank to burn. Large storage tank fires typically require specially trained personnel and equipment to
extinguish the fire, often including the need for properly applied fire fighting foam.
See Section 16 for the NFPA 704 Hazard Rating.
6. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES (rev. Apr-98)
ACTIVATE FACILITY SPILL CONTINGENCY or EMERGENCY PLAN.
Evacuate nonessential personnel and remove or secure all ignition sources. Consider wind direction; stay
upwind and uphill, if possible. Evaluate the direction of product travel, diking, sewers, etc. to confirm spill
areas. Spills may infiltrate subsurface soil and groundwater; professional assistance may be necessary to
determine the extent of subsurface impact.
Carefully contain and stop the source of the spill, if safe to do so. Protect bodies of water by diking,
absorbents, or absorbent boom, if possible. Do not flush down sewer or drainage systems, unless system
is designed and permitted to handle such material. The use of fire fighting foam may be useful in certain
situations to reduce vapors. The proper use of water spray may effectively disperse product vapors or the
liquid itself, preventing contact with ignition sources or areas/equipment that require protection.
Take up with sand or other oil absorbing materials. Carefully shovel, scoop or sweep up into a waste
container for reclamation or disposal - caution, flammable vapors may accumulate in closed containers.
Response and clean-up crews must be properly trained and must utilize proper protective equipment (see
Section 8).
7. HANDLING and STORAGE (rev. Apr-98)
HANDLING PRECAUTIONS
Handle as a flammable liquid. Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flame! Electrical equipment should
be approved for classified area. Bond and ground containers during product transfer to reduce the
possibility of static-initiated fire or explosion.
Special slow load procedures for "switch loading" must be followed to avoid the static ignition hazard that
can exist when higher flash point material (such as fuel oil) is loaded into tanks previously containing low
flash point products (such as this product) - see API Publication 2003, "Protection Against Ignitions Arising
Out Of Static, Lightning and Stray Currents.
STORAGE PRECAUTIONS
Keep away from flame, sparks, excessive temperatures and open flame. Use approved vented
containers. Keep containers closed and clearly labeled. Empty product containers or vessels may contain
explosive vapors. Do not pressurize, cut, heat, weld or expose such containers to sources of ignition.
Store in a well-ventilated area. This storage area should comply with NFPA 30 "Flammable and
Combustible Liquid Code". Avoid storage near incompatible materials. The cleaning of tanks previously
containing this product should follow API Recommended Practice (RP) 2013 "Cleaning Mobile Tanks In
Flammable and Combustible Liquid Service" and API RP 2015 "Cleaning Petroleum Storage Tanks".
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MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
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WORK/HYGIENIC PRACTICES
Emergency eye wash capability should be available in the near proximity to operations presenting a
potential splash exposure. Use good personal hygiene practices. Avoid repeated and/or prolonged skin
exposure. Wash hands before eating, drinking, smoking, or using toilet facilities. Do not use as a
cleaning solvent on the skin. Do not use solvents or harsh abrasive skin cleaners for washing this product
from exposed skin areas. Waterless hand cleaners are effective. Promptly remove contaminated clothing
and launder before reuse. Use care when laundering to prevent the formation of flammable vapors which
could ignite via washer or dryer. Consider the need to discard contaminated leather shoes and gloves.
8. EXPOSURE CONTROLS and PERSONAL PROTECTION (rev. Apr-98)
ENGINEERING CONTROLS
Use adequate ventilation to keep vapor concentrations of this product below occupational exposure and
flammability limits, particularly in confined spaces.
EYE/FACE PROTECTION
Safety glasses or goggles are recommended where there is a possibility of splashing or spraying.
SKIN PROTECTION
Gloves constructed of Viton are recommended for heavy exposure; Viton, nitrile, PVC, or neoprene for
intermittent exposure. Chemical protective clothing such as DuPont Barricade 庐 or equivalent
recommended based on degree of exposure.
Note: The resistance of specific material may vary from product to product as well as with degree of
exposure. Consult manufacturer specifications for further information.
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
A NIOSH/MSHA-approved air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridges or canister may be
permissible under certain circumstances where airborne concentrations are or may be expected to exceed
exposure limits or for odor or irritation. Protection provided by air-purifying respirators is limited. Refer to
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134, ANSI Z88.2-1992, NIOSH Respirator Decision Logic, and the manufacturer for
additional guidance on respiratory protection selection and limitations.
Use a positive pressure, air-supplied respirator if there is a potential for uncontrolled release, exposure
levels are not known, in oxygen-deficient atmospheres, or any other circumstance where an air-purifying
respirator may not provide adequate protection.
9. PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES (rev. Mar-95)
APPEARANCE
A clear, water-like liquid
ODOR
A sweet, aromatic odor.
ODOR THRESHOLD
4.7 ppm
BASIC PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
o o
BOILING RANGE: 176 F (80 C)
o o
VAPOR PRESSURE: 74.6 mm Hg @ 68 F (20 C)
VAPOR DENSITY (air = 1): 2.8
SPECIFIC GRAVITY (H2O = 1): 0.87
EVAPORATION RATE: High
PERCENT VOLATILES:100 %
SOLUBILITY (H2O): Insoluble to slightly soluble
10. STABILITY and REACTIVITY (rev. Mar-95)
STABILITY: Stable. Hazardous polymerization will not occur.
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MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
Benzene MSDS No. 0166
CONDITIONS TO AVOID and INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS
Material is stable under normal conditions. Avoid high temperatures, open flames, sparks, welding,
smoking and other ignition sources
HAZARDOUS DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS
Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and non-combusted hydrocarbons (smoke). Contact with nitric and
sulfuric acids will form nitrocresols that can decompose violently.
11. TOXICOLOGICAL PROPERTIES (rev. Apr-98; Tox-98)
ACUTE TOXICITY
Acute Dermal LD50 (rabbits): > 9.4 ml/kg Acute Oral LD50 (mouse): 4.7 g/kg
Acute inhalation LC50: 10,000 ppm (rat; 7 hours)Eye irritation (rabbit): mild to moderate
Primary dermal irritation (rabbits): mild to moderate
CHRONIC EFFECTS AND CARCINOGENICITY
Carcinogenicity: OSHA: YES IARC: (1) NTP: YES ACGIH: (A1)
Numerous epidemiological (human) and animal studies have reported an increased incidence or a causal
relationship between leukemia and benzene exposure.
Mutagenicity: positive
12. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION (rev. Apr-98)
Keep out of sewers, drainage areas and waterways. Report spills and releases, as applicable, under
Federal and State regulations.
13. DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS(rev. Apr-98)
Consult federal, state and local waste regulations to determine appropriate disposal options.
14. TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION (rev. Apr-98)
DOT PROPER SHIPPING NAME: Benzene
DOT HAZARD CLASS and PACKING GROUP: 3, PG II
DOT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER: UN 1114
DOT SHIPPING LABEL: FLAMMABLE LIQUID
15. REGULATORY INFORMATION (rev. Apr-98)
U.S. FEDERAL, STATE, and LOCAL REGULATORY INFORMATION
This product and its constituents listed herein are on the EPA TSCA Inventory. Any spill or uncontrolled
release of this product, including any substantial threat of release, may be subject to federal, state and/or
local reporting requirements. This product and/or its constituents may also be subject to other federal,
state, or local regulations; consult those regulations applicable to your facility/operation.
CLEAN WATER ACT (OIL SPILLS)
Any spill or release of this product to "navigable waters" (essentially any surface water, including certain
wetlands) or adjoining shorelines sufficient to cause a visible sheen or deposit of a sludge or emulsion
must be reported immediately to the National Response Center (1-800-424-8802) or, if not practical, the
U.S. Coast Guard with follow-up to the National Response Center, as required by U.S. Federal Law. Also
contact appropriate state and local regulatory agencies as required.
CERCLA SECTION 103 and SARA SECTION 304 (RELEASE TO THE ENVIRONMENT)
Benzene is a CERCLA Section 103 "hazardous substance" subject to CERCLA and SARA Section 304
reporting requirements.
Reportable Quantity: 10 pounds
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MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
Benzene MSDS No. 0166
SARA SECTION 311/312 - HAZARD CLASSES
ACUTE HEALTH CHRONIC HEALTH FIRE SUDDEN RELEASE OF PRESSURE REACTIVE
X X X -- --
SARA SECTION 313 - SUPPLIER NOTIFICATION
This product contains the following toxic chemicals subject to the reporting requirements of section 313 of
the Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA) of 1986 and of 40 CFR 372:
INGREDIENT NAME (CAS NUMBER) CONCENTRATION WT. PERCENT
100
Benzene (71-43-2)
CANADIAN REGULATORY INFORMATION (WHMIS)
Class B, Division 2 (Flammable Liquid)
Class D, Division 2A (Very toxic by other means) and Class D, Division 2B (Toxic by other means)
16. OTHER INFORMATION (rev. Apr-98)
HEALTH: 2 Moderate
NFPA庐 HAZARD RATING
FIRE: 3 Serious
REACTIVITY: 0 Minimal
HEALTH: 3* Serious
HMIS庐 HAZARD RATING
FIRE: 3 Serious
REACTIVITY: 0 Minimal
* Chronic
SUPERSEDES MSDS DATED: 04/23/98
ABBREVIATIONS:
AP = Approximately < = Less than > = Greater than
N/A = Not Applicable N/D = Not Determined ppm = parts per million
ACRONYMS:
ACGIH American Conference of Governmental NTP National Toxicology Program
Industrial Hygienists OPA Oil Pollution Act of 1990
AIHA American Industrial Hygiene Association OSHA U.S. Occupational Safety & Health
ANSI American National Standards Institute Administration
(212) 642-4900 PEL Permissible Exposure Limit (OSHA)
API American Petroleum Institute RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
(202) 682-8000 REL Recommended Exposure Limit (NIOSH)
CERCLA Comprehensive Emergency Response, SARA Superfund Amendments and
Compensation, and Liability Act Reauthorization Act of 1986 Title III
DOT U.S. Department of Transportation SCBA Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
[General Info: (800) 467-4922] SPCC Spill Prevention, Control, and
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Countermeasures
HMIS Hazardous Materials Information System STEL Short-Term Exposure Limit (generally 15
IARC International Agency For Research On minutes)
Cancer TLV Threshold Limit Value (ACGIH)
MSHA Mine Safety and Health Administration TSCA Toxic Substances Control Act
NFPA National Fire Protection Association (617) TWA Time Weighted Average (8 hr.)
770-3000 WEEL Workplace Environmental Exposure
NIOSH National Institute of Occupational Safety Level (AIHA)
and Health WHMIS Workplace Hazardous Materials
NOIC Notice of Intended Change (proposed Information System (Canada)
change to ACGIH TLV)
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MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
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DISCLAIMER OF EXPRESSED AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES
Information presented herein has been compiled from sources considered to be dependable, and is accurate and reliable to the
best of our knowledge and belief, but is not guaranteed to be so. Since conditions of use are beyond our control, we make no
warranties, expressed or implied, except those that may be contained in our written contract of sale or acknowledgment.
Vendor assumes no responsibility for injury to vendee or third persons proximately caused by the material if reasonable safety
procedures are not adhered to as stipulated in the data sheet. Additionally, vendor assumes no responsibility for injury to vendee
or third persons proximately caused by abnormal use of the material, even if reasonable safety procedures are followed.
Furthermore, vendee assumes the risk in their use of the material.
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