Solvents

Some common solvents Charcoal lighter fluid, Windshield washer fluid, Paint, Household cleaners, and even Water! 1a

Use of solvents Cleaning Degreasing Removing paint, ink, or other coatings 1b

Use of solvents Producing adhesives, paints, inks, coatings, varnishes, and other sealers Solvents we work with 1c

How to recognize solvents Usually liquid Many are colorless Most have a strong odor Some evaporate quickly 2a

How to recognize solvents Always check the container’s label 2b

Chemistry of solvents Solvents are used to dissolve something else Like dissolves like How electron are distributed is called polarity 3a

Chemistry of solvents Polar solvents: Non-polar solvents: Water Ketones Alcohols Non-polar solvents: Oils Petroleum distillates Many chlorinated solvents 3b

Chemistry of solvents Always use the solvent specified for the job Why we use certain solvents 3c

Health hazards Routes of entry include: Breathing the vapors, Direct contact, and Ingestion if you are eating or drinking while using the solvents. 4a

Health hazards: Acute effects Dizziness Nausea Irritation Dryness Itching Dermatitis 4b

Health hazards: Chronic effects Chronic diseases typically target: Skin, Liver, Kidneys, Circulatory system, Reproductive system, and Nervous system. 4c

Health hazards Check the MSDS Health hazards of the solvents we use 4d

Physical hazards Combustible Flammable Check the MSDS Physical hazards of the solvents we use 5

Engineering controls that reduce exposures Ventilation Automated chemical transfer equipment Engineering controls we use 6

Personal protective equipment (PPE) See solvent’s MSDS for PPE recommendations Employer selects appropriate PPE Types of PPE we use 7

Safe work procedures See solvent’s MSDS for safe handling information Take appropriate fire prevention precautions Use only the amount needed 8a

Safe work procedures Dispense carefully to avoid spills Be cautious about skin contact Follow all job-specific work procedures 8b

Safe storage procedures See solvent’s MSDS for safe storage information Solvents may need to be stored separately from other materials Storage areas should be well ventilated 9a

Safe storage procedures Rough handling can lead to dangerous leaks Inspect containers for damage prior to use Report suspected damage, contamination, or leaks 9b

Proper clean-up and disposal Emergency releases should be handled by a specially trained Hazmat team Waste solvents need to be collected in proper containers 10

First aid and emergency procedures Refer to the MSDS for first aid and emergency information Always follow our company’s specific procedures for emergency response and first aid 11