Material Handling

Phenol is a hazardous chemical that can cause a variety of reactions. The effect of phenol exposure is that the systemic absorption causes central nervous system impairment and liver and kidney damage – it can be lethal. Local effects include irritation of the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. Because of its low volatility, phenol does not pose a serious inhalation hazard in the occupational setting; the skin is the primary route of entry. Chronic phenol poisoning is characterized by systemic disorders such as digestive disturbances, nervous system effects, and possibly by skin discoloration and eruptions. Concentrated phenol solutions are severely irritating to the human eye and cause conjunctival swelling; the cornea becomes white and loses sensation. Loss of vision has occurred in some cases. In addition to systemic effects, contact with the solid or liquid can produce chemical burns. Only personnel that have been trained in the safe handling of phenol should work in areas where it is present – all others should refrain from being in those areas until properly trained.

Phenol should be used only in a well-ventilated area. In general, avoid any physical contact with this material. Avoid contact with the eyes. Always wash thoroughly after handling. This liquid may form an ignitable vapor-air mixture in closed tanks or containers. This liquid may accumulate static electricity even when transferred into properly grounded containers. Bonding and grounding may be insufficient to remove static electricity. Static electricity accumulation may be significantly increased by the presence of small quantities of water. Always bond receiving container to the fill pipe before and during loading, following NFPA-77 and/or API RP 2003 requirements. In addition to bonding and grounding, efforts to mitigate the hazards of an electrostatic discharge may include, but are not limited to: ventilation; inerting; and/or reduction of transfer velocities. Always keep the nozzle in contact with the container throughout the loading process. Do not fill any portable containers in or on a vehicle. Special precautions, such as reduced loading rates and increased monitoring, must be observed during "switch loading" operations (i.e. loading this material in tanks or shipping compartments that previously contained middle distillates or similar products). Non-equilibrium conditions may increase the risks associated with static electricity such as tank and container filling, tank cleaning, sampling, gauging, loading, filtering, mixing, agitation, etc. Dissipation of electrostatic charges may be improved with the use of conductivity additives when used with other mitigating efforts, including bonding and grounding.

If eye, skin or inhalation exposure does occur, treat promptly as directed and seek medical attention immediately if necessary.

INHALATION
Remove to fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is difficult, give oxygen and continue to monitor. Get immediate medical attention.

SKIN
Remove all clothing. Patient should be immediately placed in an emergency shower and skin should be flushed with water for at least 20 minutes. If phenol has contaminated the face or head, victim should wear goggles in the shower to prevent phenol from entering the eyes. If the eyes are involved, immediately flush eyes with plenty of water. After emergency shower, swab affected area(s) of the patient with cotton soaked in polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG) for a minimum of 10 to 20 minutes. After treatment with PEG, patient should be transported to an emergency medical facility for cardiac monitoring and further treatment. Phenol may have an effect on many different organ systems, especially the heart and kidneys. Even if exposure is small, patient should be admitted for at least 24 hours for observation. Destroy contaminated shoes and other leather products.

EYES
Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 20 minutes. Get immediate medical attention.

INGESTION 
If swallowed, immediately contact a physician or Poison Control Center. Never give anything by mouth to an intoxicated, unconscious or convulsing person. Get immediate medical attention.

For more detailed information on first aid and the safe handling of phenol, refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet provided in compliance with OSHA hazard communication regulations.