Phosphorus oxychloride

H302: Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H330: Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H372 **: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P260, P264, P270, P271, P280, P284, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P319, P320, P321, P330, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 3.3% (12 of 359) of reports.

H290 (37.3%): May be corrosive to metals [Warning Corrosive to Metals]

H300 (29.2%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H302 (61.3%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H311 (29.2%): Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H314 (96.7%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (37%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H330 (96.7%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H372 (96.7%): Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P234, P260, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P284, P301+P316, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P319, P320, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P390, P403+P233, P405, P406, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 359 reports by companies from 20 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 12 of 359 reports by companies.

There are 19 notifications provided by 347 of 359 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.

H300: Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H311: Toxic in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H318: Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H402: Harmful to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

P260, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P284, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P320, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P284, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P320, P321, P330, P363, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.

Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer for medical attention .

First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then refer for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer for medical attention .

Warning: Phosphorus oxychloride is a corrosive agent. Contact with eyes may result in severe damage to the cornea, conjunctiva, and blood vessels. Caution is advised.

Signs and Symptoms of Phosphorus Oxychloride Exposure: Acute exposure to phosphorus oxychloride may result in irritation and burning of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. Light- headedness, drowsiness, slurred speech, pupillary dilation, increased salivation, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), abdominal pain, and spontaneous vomiting may occur. Stridor (high-pitched, noisy respirations), dyspnea (shortness of breath), and pulmonary edema are also common. Apathy and mental confusion may develop, with progression to coma and death.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to phosphorus oxychloride may require decontamination and life support for the victims. Emergency personnel should wear protective clothing appropriate to the type and degree of contamination. Air-purifying or supplied-air respiratory equipment should also be worn, as necessary. Rescue vehicles should carry supplies such as plastic sheeting and disposable plastic bags to assist in preventing spread of contamination.

Inhalation Exposure:

1. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to phosphorus oxychloride.

2. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

3. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

4. Transport to a health care facility.

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to phosphorus oxychloride.

3. Remove and isolate contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

4. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for at least 30 minutes.

5. Wash exposed skin areas thoroughly with water.

6. Obtain authorization and/or further instructions from the local hospital for administration of an antidote or performance of other invasive procedures.

7. Transport to a health care facility.

Ingestion Exposure:

1. Evaluate vital signs including pulse and respiratory rate, and note any trauma. If no pulse is detected, provide CPR. If not breathing, provide artificial respiration. If breathing is labored, administer oxygen or other respiratory support.

2. DO NOT induce vomiting or attempt to neutralize!

4. Activated charcoal is of no value.

5. Give the victims water or milk: children up to 1 year old, 125 mL (4 oz or 1/2 cup); children 1 to 12 years old, 200 mL (6 oz or 3/4 cup); adults, 250 mL (8 oz or 1 cup). Water or milk should be given only if victims are conscious and alert.

6. Transport to a health care facility. (EPA, 1998)

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

· Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved, take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.

· Move victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

-- DO NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation; the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.

-- If equipped and pulse detected, wash face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other device).

-- If no pulse detected or no respiratory medical device available, provide continuous compressions. Conduct a pulse check every two minutes or monitor for any signs of spontaneous respirations.

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

· For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin.

· In case of contact with substance, remove immediately by flushing skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

Avoid breathing vapors; keep upwind. Wear self-contained breathing apparatus. Avoid bodily contact with the material. Wear boots, protective gloves, and goggles. Do not handle broken packages without protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water. If contact with the material is anticipated, wear full protective clothing. Keep unnecessary people away; isolate hazard area and deny entry.

Extinguish by smothering with suitable dry chemical. Use water on combustibles burning in vicinity of this material. Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or dry sand; do not use water on material itself; if large quantities of combustibles are involved, use water in flooding quantities as spray and fog; use water spray to absorb vapors; cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water; apply water from as far a distance as possible. (EPA, 1998)

In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media. NO hydrous agents. NO water. In case of fire: keep drums, etc., cool by spraying with water. NO direct contact with water.

Use appropriate extinguishing agents on nearby combustible fires. Use water spray to knock down acid vapors.

This chemical reacts violently with moisture producing hydrochloric and phosphoric acids. Poisonous gases including chlorides and phosphorus oxides are produced in fire. Do not use water unless used in flooding quantities to control a large fire by wetting down combustibles burning in vicinity of this material. Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, or dry sand; do not use water on material itself. Use water spray to absorb vapors and cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from a s far a distance as possible. Avoid breathing vapors; keep upwind. Wear self-contained breathing apparatus. Avoid bodily contact wit the material. Wear boots, protective gloves, and goggles. Do not handle broken packages without protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water. If contact with the material is anticipated, wear full protective clothing. Keep unnecessary people away; isolate hazard area and deny entry. Vapors are heavier than air and will collect in low areas. Containers may explode in fire. Storage containers and parts of containers may rocket great distances, in many directions. ...From a secure, explosion-proof location, use water spray to cool exposed containers. If cooling streams are ineffective (venting sound increases in volume and pitch, tank discolors, or shows any signs of deforming), withdraw immediately to a secure position.

Not combustible, but if involved in a fire may react to produce hydrogen chloride & phosphoric acid.

Fumes from fires are irritating to respiratory passages, eyes, skin, & may contain phosphine, phosphoric acid, hydrogen chloride.

· CALL 911. Then call emergency response telephone number on shipping paper. If shipping paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover.

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· Ventilate closed spaces before entering, but only if properly trained and equipped.

· Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· Use water spray to reduce vapors; do not put water directly on leak, spill area or inside container.

· Keep combustibles (wood, paper, oil, etc.) away from spilled material.

Small Spill

· Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain.

· Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect material and place it into loosely covered plastic containers for later disposal.

· Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

HCl - when spill Phosphorus oxychloride into water.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 137 [Substances - Water-Reactive - Corrosive]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

SPILL: See ERG Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances on the UN/NA 1810 datasheet.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids.

· For highlighted materials: see Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances.

· For non-highlighted materials: increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

· If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 800 meters (1/2 mile) in all directions.

When spilled on land

Small spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 30 m (100 ft)

Large spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 100 m (300 ft)

When spilled in water

- ISOLATE in all directions: 60 m (200 ft)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 0.1 km (0.1 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 0.1 km (0.1 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 0.5 km (0.3 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 1.5 km (1.0 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 0.3 km (0.2 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 0.6 km (0.4 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 1.1 km (0.7 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 1.8 km (1.2 mi)

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Ventilation. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable dry containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in dry sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Releases may require isolation or evacuation. Use water spray to cool & disperse vapors & protect personnel.

Keep material out of water sources and sewers; build dikes to contain flow as necessary; use water spray to knock down vapors; do not use water on material itself; and neutralize spilled material with crushed limestone, soda ash, or lime. For a land spell, dig a pit, pond, lagoon, or holding area to contain liquid or solid material; dike surface flow using soil. sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete; absorb bulk liquid with fly ash or cement powder; neutralize with agricultural lime (slaked lime), crushed limestone, or sodium bicarbonate. For a water spill, neutralize with agricultural lime (slaked lime), crushed limestone, or sodium bicarbonate; use mechanical dredges or lifts to remove immobilized masses of pollutants and precipitates; adjust pH to neutral (pH 7). For air spills apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors; vapor knock down water is corrosive or toxic and should be diked for containment. Stop leak if you can do so without risk. Do not touch spilled material. Keep combustibles (wood, paper, oil, etc.) away from spilled material. Clean up only under supervision of an expert. Keep this chemical out of a confined space, such as a sewer, because of the possibility of an explosion, unless the sewer is designed to prevent the build-up of explosive concentrations. It may be necessary to contain and dispose of this chemical as a hazardous waste. If material or contaminated runoff enters water ways, notify downstream users of potentially contaminated waters.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 137 [Substances - Water-Reactive - Corrosive]:

Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Use water spray to reduce vapors; do not put water directly on leak, spill area or inside container. Keep combustibles (wood, paper, oil, etc.) away from spilled material.

SMALL SPILL: Cover with DRY earth, DRY sand or other non-combustible material followed with plastic sheet to minimize spreading or contact with rain. Use clean, non-sparking tools to collect material and place it into loosely covered plastic containers for later disposal. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. (ERG, 2024)

See Chemical Dangers. Cool. Dry. Well closed. Keep in a well-ventilated room.

Keep in tightly closed containers.

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from acids, alkalies, alkali metals, alcohols.

Phosphorus oxychloride is stored and shipped in 3.8-L (1-gal) or smaller glass containers and DOT-specification wooden overpacking. Bulk POCl3 shipments are in nickel-clad tank cars of 15,000-30,000 L (4000-8000 gal) each. Glass and glass-lined steel equipment frequently is used for storage, as well as for reaction vessels.

Where possible, automatically pump liquid from drums or other storage containers to process containers. Sources of ignition such as smoking and open flames are prohibited where this chemical is handled, used, or stored. Metal containers involving the transfer of 5 gallons or more of this chemical should be grounded and bonded. Drums must be equipped with self-closing valves, pressure vacuum bungs, and flame arresters. Use only non-sparking tools and equipment, especially when opening and closing containers of this chemical. Wherever this chemical is used, handled , manufactured, or stored, use explosion-proof electrical equipment and fittings.

· Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

· Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer when there is NO RISK OF FIRE.

· Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection.

TIH (Toxic Inhalation Hazard) - Term used to describe gases and volatile liquids that are toxic when inhaled. Some are TIH materials themselves, e.g., chlorine, and some release TIH gases when spilled in water, e.g., chlorosilanes. [ERG 2016].

0.02 [ppm]

AEGL 1: Notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 2: Irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape (Unit: ppm)

AEGL 3: Life-threatening health effects or death (Unit: ppm)

NR = Not recommended due to insufficient data

AEGLs Status: Final

0.020 [ppm]

0.48 [ppm]

0.85 [ppm]

0.1 ppm (0.6 mg/m³)

0.5 ppm (3 mg/m³)

TWA 0.1 ppm (0.6 mg/m3) ST 0.5 ppm (3 mg/m3)

none See Appendix G

See: IDLH INDEX

0.1 [ppm]

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.1 ppm.

Excursion Limit Recommendation: Excursions in worker exposure levels may exceed 3 times the TLV-TWA for no more than a total of 30 minutes during a work day, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the TLV-TWA, provided that the TLV-TWA is not exceeded.

0.1 ppm as TWA.

0.1 ppm [1979]

0,064 mg/m

0.13 mg/m

· When material is not involved in fire, do not use water on material itself.

Small Fire

· Dry chemical or CO2.

· If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire.

Large Fire

· Flood fire area with large quantities of water, while knocking down vapors with water fog. If insufficient water supply, responders should withdraw.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out.

· Do not get water inside containers.

· Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank.

· ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames.

DOE Protective Action Criteria (PAC): Temporary Emergency Exposure Limits (TEELs) for Phosphorus oxychloride: TEEL-0: 0.1 ppm; PAC-1: 0.479 ppm; PAC-2: 0.479 ppm; PAC-3: 0.85 ppm (TEEL-0: The threshold concentration below which most people will experience no adverse health effects; PAC-1: The maximum concentration in air below which it is believed nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to one hour without experiencing other than mild transient adverse health effects or perceiving a clearly defined objectionable odor; PAC-2: The maximum concentration in air below which it is believed nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to one hour without experiencing or developing irreversible or other serious health effects or symptoms that could impair their abilities to take protective action; PAC-3: The maximum concentration in air below which it is believed nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to one hour without experiencing or developing life-threatening health effects).

USSR: 0.008 ppm

A harmful contamination of the air can be reached very quickly on evaporation of this substance at 20 °C.

The substance is corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Inhalation of the vapour may cause lung oedema. Exposure at high levels could cause death. The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated.

Phosphorus oxychloride appears as a colorless fuming liquid with a pungent odor. Density 14.0 lb / gal. Very toxic by inhalation and corrosive to metals and tissue. Used in gasoline additives and hydraulic fluids.

Clear, colorless to yellow, oily liquid with a pungent & musty odor. [Note: A solid below 34 degrees F.]; [NIOSH]

BROWN FUMING LIQUID WITH PUNGENT ODOUR.

Clear, colorless to yellow, oily liquid with a pungent & musty odor.

Clear, colorless to yellow, oily liquid with a pungent & musty odor. [Note: A solid below 34 °F.]

Clear, colorless to yellow, oily liquid [Note: A solid below 34 degrees F].

Mobile, fuming liquid

Pungent & musty odor

223 °F at 760 mmHg (EPA, 1998)

105.8 °C

105.1 °C @760 [mm Hg]

34.2 °F (EPA, 1998)

1 - 1.5 °C

Not Flammable (EPA, 1998)

Decomposes (NIOSH, 2024)

Reacts with water

Solubility in water: reaction

Decomposes

1.645 at 77 °F (EPA, 1998) - Denser than water; will sink

Specific gravity: 1.645 at 25 °C/4 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 1.645

1.645 at 77 °F

1.685 @ 15.5°C

(77 °F): 1.65

5.3 (EPA, 1998) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

5.3 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 5.3

40 mmHg at 81.14 °F (EPA, 1998)

40 mm Hg at 27.3 °C

Vapor pressure, kPa at 27.3 °C: 5.3

40 mmHg at 81.14 °F

40 [mm Hg] @27.3 °C

(81 °F): 40 mmHg

Not flammable (USCG, 1999)

WHEN HEATED TO DECOMPOSITION, IT EMITS HIGHLY TOXIC FUMES OF CHLORIDES AND PO(X).

PRODUCES PHOSPHORUS TRICHLORIDE & CHLORINE WHEN HEATED; PRODUCES PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE, PHOSPHORIC ACID, & HYDROCHLORIC ACID WHEN DECOMPOSED IN WATER

PRODUCTS OF ITS REACTION WITH WATER RAPIDLY CORRODE STEEL & MOST METALS

97 BTU/LB= 54 CAL/G= 2.3X10+5 JOULES/KG

Index of refraction: 1.460 at 25 °C/D

Heat of formation = -597.1 kJ/mol

Fumes in air. Reacts exothermically (with possible spattering) with water to form fumes of phosphoric acid and hydrochloric acid. Phosphorus oxychloride reacts vigorously with water to generate gaseous HCl.

Based on a scenario where the chemical is spilled into an excess of water (at least 5 fold excess of water), half of the maximum theoretical yield of Hydrogen Chloride (hydrochloric acid) gas will be created in 0.12 minutes. Experimental details are in the following: "Development of the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Distances for the 2008 Emergency Response Guidebook", ANL/DIS-09-2, D.F. Brown, H.M. Hartmann, W.A. Freeman, and W.D. Haney, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, Illinois, June 2009.

Acyl Halides, Sulfonyl Halides, and Chloroformates

Water-Reactive

Air-Reactive

CSL00014

ACETONE + PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE

Warning - This combination has been documented in the literature to explode when mixed. These two reagents should NEVER come in contact with one another. Ensure that all POCl3 is quenched prior to rotary evaporation or any other means of POCl3 contacting acetone residues.

Explosive

User-Reported

CSL00033

N,N-DIMETHYLFORMAMIDE + PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE

Health Hazard

Harmful,Toxic

Chlorination

Generation of dimethylcarbamoyl chloride (carcinogen). DMCC is also toxic and a severe irritant.

CSL00064

PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE + DIMETHYL SULFOXIDE

Potentially explosive

CSL00080

PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE + SODIUM AZIDE

highly explosive

CSL00127

Perfluorethyllithium + Phosphorus Trichloride,Phosphorus + N-BUTYLLITHIUM + CHLOROPENTAFLUOROETHANE

Avoid temperatures below -90 C

Substitution

Several times in our laboratory, we have experienced a violent decomposition of the ethereal C2F5Cl/n-BuLi solution after the addition of just a few drops of (R)nPCl3=n. In each of these cases, the metal-halogen exchange temperature was maintained below -90 C. We believe that this problem is due to a buildup of starting reagents at low temperatures.

PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE is water reactive. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, alcohols, bases (including amines). May react vigorously or explosively if mixed with diisopropyl ether or other ethers in the presence of trace amounts of metal salts [J. Haz. Mat., 1981, 4, 291]. Combining the chloride with zinc dust caused immediate ignition, due to the formation of phosphine gas which ignites, [Mellor, 1940, Vol. 8, 1025]. An exotherm starting with the mixing of phosphorus oxychloride with acetone (a ketone) lead to an explosion, may behave similarly with other ketones, [Organic Process Research and Development, Vol.4, No. 6,200, "Phosphorus Oxychloride and Acetone: An Incompatibility Investigation Using ARC."]

WILL REACT WITH WATER OR STEAM TO PRODUCE HEAT AND TOXIC AND CORROSIVE FUMES.

Reacts exothermically with water, alcohol.

Water, combustible materials, carbon disulfide dimethylformamide, metals (except nickel & lead) [Note: Decomposes in water to hydrochloric & phosphoric acids].

Phosphoryl chloride & boron triiodide react vigorously.

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Water, combustible materials, carbon disulfide, dimethyl-formamide, metals (except nickel & lead) [Note: Decomposes in water to hydrochloric & phosphoric acids.]

Phosphorus oxychloride. No toxicokinetic studies were located. Phosphorus oxychloride is acutely very toxic when inhaled by rats and guinea pigs, causing extensive irritation of the respiratory tract. It is also acutely toxic to rats via the oral route. The substance is corrosive to rabbit skin and causes severe eye damage. Little reliable information is available on the effects of repeated inhalation in animals. Irritation of the respiratory tract would be expected and has been claimed in one poorly reported rat study, although no reliance can be placed on these data, particularly as it is not clear if continuous or repeated exposure was used. No reliable genotoxicity or animal reproductive toxicity data are available. No animal carcinogenicity study was located. Single exposure of humans to airborne material has been reported to cause conjunctivitis, pharyngitis and respiratory tract irritation, including pulmonary edema. No reliable threshold concentration for these effects is available. Similar effects were seen following repeated exposure including asthmatic bronchitis and, in severe cases, emphysema. Exposure levels were 10-20 mg/cu m, rising to 70 mg/cu m, and sometimes to higher levels. Workers who suffered respiratory effects were reported to show increased respiratory tract sensitivity to phosphorus oxychloride and to other irritant substances, particularly phosphorus bichloride and pentachloride. No human data are available on the genotoxic or carcinogenic potential of phosphorus oxychloride or on its potential to cause reproductive toxicity.

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its vapour and by ingestion.

inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Sore throat. Cough. Burning sensation. Dizziness. Laboured breathing. Nausea. Headache. Unconsciousness. Vomiting. Weakness. Shortness of breath. Symptoms may be delayed.

Pain. Redness. Blisters. Skin burns.

Pain. Redness. Severe deep burns. Loss of vision.

Burning sensation. Abdominal pain. Shock or collapse. Further see Inhalation.

irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; eye, skin burns; dyspnea (breathing difficulty), cough, pulmonary edema; dizziness, headache, lassitude (weakness, exhaustion); abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting; nephritis

Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, kidneys

Occupational hepatotoxin - Secondary hepatotoxins: the potential for toxic effect in the occupational setting is based on cases of poisoning by human ingestion or animal experimentation.

Nephrotoxin - The chemical is potentially toxic to the kidneys in the occupational setting.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

Lacrimator (Lachrymator) - A substance that irritates the eyes and induces the flow of tears.

Toxic Pneumonitis - Inflammation of the lungs induced by inhalation of metal fumes or toxic gases and vapors.

LC50 (rat) = 32 ppm/4h

LC50 Rat /inhalation/ 48 ppm/4 hr

LC50 Guinea pig /inhalation/ 52 ppm/4 hr

LD50 Rabbit dermal >250 mg/kg

LD50 Rat oral 380 mg/kg

CAUTION: PERSONS DOING TREATMENT SHOULD PROTECT THEMSELVES AGAINST EXPOSURE. INHALATION: REMOVE VICTIM FROM CONTAMINATED AREA AT ONCE; IF BREATHING HAS STOPPED, START ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; CALL DOCTOR.

/SRP:/ Immediate first aid: Ensure that adequate decontamination has been carried out. If patient is not breathing, start artificial respiration, preferably with a demand-valve resuscitator, bag-valve-mask device, or pocket mask, as trained. Perform CPR as necessary. Immediately flush contaminated eyes with gently flowing water. Do not induce vomiting. If vomiting occurs, lean patient forward or place on left side (head-down position, if possible) to maintain an open airway and prevent aspiration. Keep patient quiet and maintain normal body temperature. Obtain medical attention. /Inorganic acids and related compounds/

/SRP:/ Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway (oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal airway, if needed). Suction if necessary. Watch for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist respirations if needed. Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with 0.9% saline (NS) during transport ... . Do not use emetics. Activated charcoal is not effective. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200 ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex, and does not drool ... . Do not attempt to neutralize because of exothermic reaction. Cover skin burns with dry, sterile dressings after decontamination ... . /Inorganic acids and related compounds/

/SRP:/ Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for airway control in the patient who is unconscious, has severe pulmonary edema, or is in severe respiratory distress. Early intubation, at the first sign of upper airway obstruction, may be necessary. Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag valve mask device may be beneficial. Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Consider administering a beta agonist such as albuterol for severe bronchospasm ... . Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias as necessary ... . Start IV administration of D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal flow rate/. Use 0.9% saline (NS) or lactated Ringer's(LR) if signs of hypovolemia are present. For hypotension with signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid overload ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Inorganic acids and related compounds/

For more Antidote and Emergency Treatment (Complete) data for PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Potential symptoms of overexposure are irritation of eyes, skin, respiratory system; eye, skin burns; dyspnea, cough, lung edema; dizziness, headache, weakness; abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting; nephritis.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Acute poisoning is characterized by burns and extensive reddening of eyes, pains in throat and bronchi, and cough. Those constantly or frequently exposed to very small doses ... suffer from chronic poisoning which manifests itself in form of pulmonary irritation, cough, and when ingested, asthmatical respiration. /it/ ... causes actual burns of mucous membranes of mouth and the digestive tract.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Burns of ... cornea ... have been noted in 2 cases to be slow in healing ... .

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Exposure to the vapor of phosphorus oxychloride may cause irritation of the eyes, dizziness, headache, weakness, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, cough, dyspnea, bronchitis, bronchopneumonia, pulmonary edema and nephritis. Both chronic and acute cases of occupational intoxication have been recorded.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE (14 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ 6 male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed for 18 minutes to a concentration of 159.7 g/cu m. This exposure caused laboured breathing within less than 2 minutes, weakness, convulsions, collapse and death in 10 minutes. All animal died within 18 minutes.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ In a Russian study ..., acute inhalation exposure of rats to lethal or near lethal concentrations of phosphorus oxychloride resulted in immediate signs of irritation (rubbing of faces and restlessness). At 5-15 minutes of exposure, the rats exhibited inactivity and decreased respiration, followed by convulsions. Rats that survived showed continued lacrimation and corneal opacities, and ulcers around the mouth several days after cessation of exposure. The report provided a "threshold concentration" of 0.006 mg/L (0.96 ppm) based upon "integrated characteristics". It is unclear as to what effect this threshold pertains or the precise nature of the "integrated characteristics". Although no further details were provided, information in this report affirms the irritation and lethal capacity of phosphorus oxychloride following acute inhalation exposure.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ The results of an inhalation study in rats were /reported/. Groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats (number not provided) were exposed for 18 minutes to 159.7 mg phosphorus oxychloride/L (25,462 ppm). Conditions in the 35-L chamber were: 25 °C, 85% humidity, and 4.0 L/minute airflow. The concentration of the test material was such that there was a fog in the chamber. Within two minutes the rats /were/ having difficulty breathing and their eye/s/ were closed. At 10 minutes, weakness, convulsions, and collapse were observed, and one rat died. At 18 minutes all rats were dead. Necropsy revealed lung congestion. No further details were provided.

/LABORATORY ANIMALS: Acute Exposure/ Experiments using groups of 10 male guinea pigs /were also conducted/. The experimental protocol was the same as that described for the experiments with rats. Like the rats, the response of the guinea pigs was consistent with exposure to an irritating chemical (restlessness, lacrimation, pawing at nose and head). The 4-hr LC50 was 52.5 umole/mole of air (numerically equivalent to 52.5 ppm). Deaths occurred within 48 hours after exposure; no further details were provided. Neutralization of the phosphorus oxychloride with ammonia resulted in a lowering of the LC50 to 41.3 umole/mole of air (numerically equivalent to 41.3 ppm). Similar to the results observed for rats, the simultaneous exposure of the guinea pigs to ammonia was thought to decrease the irritation responses to the phosphorus oxychloride exposure but to increase the overall toxicity. The series of exposures and the respective responses used to obtain the median lethal concentration were not provided and, therefore, no other exposure-response data are available.

For more Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Phosphorus oxychloride's production and use to manufacture alkyl and aryl orthophosphate triesters, manufacture of insecticides, dye intermediates, pharmaceuticals, synthesis of various nerve agents, solvent in cryoscopy, manufacture of gasoline additives and hydraulic fluid, chlorinating agent and catalyst, dopant for semiconductor grade silicon, tricresyl phosphate, and fire retarding agent may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 40 mm Hg at 27.3 °C indicates phosphorus oxychloride will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase phosphorus oxychloride will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be >290 days. Phosphorus oxychloride does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, phosphorus oxychloride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Phosphorus oxychloride hydrolyzes rapidly at room temperature and is expected to be the most important fate process for phosphorus oxychloride in the environment. Occupational exposure to phosphorus oxychloride may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where phosphorus oxychloride is produced or used. (SRC)

Phosphorus oxychloride's production and use to manufacture alkyl and aryl orthophosphate triesters(1), manufacture of insecticides, dye intermediates, pharmaceuticals, synthesis of various nerve agents(2), solvent in cryoscopy(3), manufacture of gasoline additives and hydraulic fluid, chlorinating agent and catalyst, dopant for semiconductor grade silicon, tricresyl phosphate, and fire retarding agent(4) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Hydrolysis is expected to be the most important fate process for phosphorus oxychloride in the environment(1). Phosphorus oxychloride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 40 mm Hg(1).

AQUATIC FATE: Phosphorus oxychloride hydrolyzes rapidly in water at room temperature(1).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), phosphorus oxychloride, which has a vapor pressure of 40 mm Hg at 27.3 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase phosphorus oxychloride is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is reported to be >290 days, calculated from its rate constant of <4X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg(3). Phosphorus oxychloride does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of phosphorus oxychloride with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been reported as <4X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of >290 days(1). Phosphorus oxychloride hydrolyzes rapidly in water at room temperature(2). Phosphorus oxychloride does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(3) and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

Phosphorus oxychloride's production and use to manufacture alkyl and aryl orthophosphate triesters, manufacture of insecticides, dye intermediates, pharmaceuticals, synthesis of various nerve agents, solvent in cryoscopy, manufacture of gasoline additives and hydraulic fluid, chlorinating agent and catalyst, dopant for semiconductor grade silicon, tricresyl phosphate, and fire retarding agent may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 40 mm Hg at 27.3 °C indicates phosphorus oxychloride will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase phosphorus oxychloride will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be >290 days. Phosphorus oxychloride does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, phosphorus oxychloride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Phosphorus oxychloride hydrolyzes rapidly at room temperature and is expected to be the most important fate process for phosphorus oxychloride in the environment. Occupational exposure to phosphorus oxychloride may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where phosphorus oxychloride is produced or used. (SRC)

Phosphorus oxychloride's production and use to manufacture alkyl and aryl orthophosphate triesters(1), manufacture of insecticides, dye intermediates, pharmaceuticals, synthesis of various nerve agents(2), solvent in cryoscopy(3), manufacture of gasoline additives and hydraulic fluid, chlorinating agent and catalyst, dopant for semiconductor grade silicon, tricresyl phosphate, and fire retarding agent(4) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Hydrolysis is expected to be the most important fate process for phosphorus oxychloride in the environment(1). Phosphorus oxychloride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 40 mm Hg(1).

AQUATIC FATE: Phosphorus oxychloride hydrolyzes rapidly in water at room temperature(1).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), phosphorus oxychloride, which has a vapor pressure of 40 mm Hg at 27.3 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase phosphorus oxychloride is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is reported to be >290 days, calculated from its rate constant of <4X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 deg(3). Phosphorus oxychloride does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of phosphorus oxychloride with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been reported as <4X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of >290 days(1). Phosphorus oxychloride hydrolyzes rapidly in water at room temperature(2). Phosphorus oxychloride does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(3) and therefore is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

Phosphorus oxychloride hydrolyzes rapidly in water at room temperature(1), and therefore is not expected to bioconcentrate in organisms(SRC).

Phosphorus oxychloride hydrolyzes rapidly in water at room temperature(1), and therefore will not adsorb to soils and sediments(SRC).

Phosphorus oxychloride hydrolyzes rapidly in water at room temperature(1), and therefore will not volatilize from water or moist soil surfaces(SRC). Phosphorus oxychloride is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 40 mm Hg(1).

NIOSH has statistically estimated that 12,587 workers (2,945 of these were female) were potentially exposed to phosphorus oxychloride in the US(1). Occupational exposure to phosphorus oxychloride may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where phosphorus oxychloride is produced or used(SRC).

The maximum admissible concentration of phosphoryl trichloride in the workplace air (MAK) is 1.3 mg/cu m (0.2 ppm) in Germany. Workplace air measurements of phosphoryl trichloride were performed in the Bayer Chemicals processing plant. /Eighteen/ total shift measurements and one short time measurement were done in the relevant areas between 1992 and 1996. Three values of these (0.03 - 0.1 mg/cu m) were above the detection limit (0.02 - 0.1 mg/cu m depending on sampling conditions).

Principles and methods for destruction of chemical weapons: ... "Destruction of chemical weapons" means a process by which chemicals are converted in an essentially irreversible way to a form unsuitable for production of chemical weapons, and which in an irreversible manner renders munitions and other devices unusable as such. ... Each ... /nation/ shall determine how it shall destroy chemical weapons, except that the following processes may not be used: dumping in any body of water, land burial or open-pit burning. It shall destroy chemical weapons only at specifically designated and appropriately designed and equipped facilities. ... Each ... /nation/ shall ensure that its chemical weapons destruction facilities are constructed and operated in a manner to ensure the destruction of the chemical weapons; and that the destruction process can be verified under the provisions of this Convention.

If ... THERE IS NO FIRE, go directly to the Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances /(see table below)/ ... to obtain initial isolation and protective action distances. IF THERE IS A FIRE, or IF A FIRE IS INVOLVED, go directly to the appropriate guide /(see guide(s) below)/ and use the evacuation information shown under PUBLIC SAFETY.

Table: Table of Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Phosphorus oxychloride (when spilled on land) [Table#2112]

Table: Table of Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Phosphorus oxychloride (when spilled in water) [Table#2113]

Table of Water-Reactive Materials Which Produce Toxic Gases

Table: Materials Which Produce Large Amounts of Toxic-by-Inhalation (TIH) Gas(es) When Spilled in Water [Table#2114]

/GUIDE 137: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE - CORROSIVE/ Health: CORROSIVE and/or TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or contact (skin, eyes) with vapors, dusts or substance may cause severe injury, burns, or death. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Reaction with water may generate much heat which will increase the concentration of fumes in the air. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for PHOSPHORUS OXYCHLORIDE (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 1810; Phosphorus oxychloride

IMO 8.0; Phosphorous oxychloride

49 323 52; Phosphorus oxychloride

No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ... and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous materials.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or article.

Poison Inhalation Hazard Corrosive

Airtight. Unbreakable packaging. Put breakable packaging into closed unbreakable container.

Symbol: T+, C; R: 14-22-26-29-35-48/23; S: (1/2)-7/8-26-36/37/39-45

UN Hazard Class: 8; UN Pack Group: II