hexachlorobenzene

H350: May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]

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

H400: Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410: Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P260, P264, P270, P273, P280, P318, P319, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H350 (100%): May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity]

H372 (100%): Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H400 (98.3%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (100%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Aggregated GHS information provided per 747 reports by companies from 17 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

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.

H332: Harmful if inhaled [Warning Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

H360: May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]

H362: May cause harm to breast-fed children [Reproductive toxicity, effects on or via lactation]

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

H373: May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

P203, P260, P261, P263, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P304+P340, P317, P318, P319, P391, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H303: May be harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

P203, P260, P264, P270, P280, P301+P317, P318, P319, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest.

Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap.

Rinse with plenty of water (remove contact lenses if easily possible). Refer for medical attention if irritation persists.

Rinse mouth. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.

SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. If symptoms such as redness or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital for treatment.

INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. IMMEDIATELY call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.

INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical and IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center. Be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital if advised by a physician. If the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital.

OTHER: Since this chemical is a known or suspected carcinogen you should contact a physician for advice regarding the possible long term health effects and potential recommendation for medical monitoring. Recommendations from the physician will depend upon the specific compound, its chemical, physical and toxicity properties, the exposure level, length of exposure, and the route of exposure. (NTP, 1992)

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.

· Keep victim under observation.

· For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.

· Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.

Specific First Aid:

· Removal of solidified molten material from skin requires medical assistance.

In Canada, an Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) may be required for this product. Please consult the shipping paper and/or the "ERAP" section.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal. Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. 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. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

Use water spray, foam, powder, carbon dioxide.

Dry chemical.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. (Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty.) use water in flooding quantities as fog. use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide. Keep run-off water out of sewers and water sources.

· 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.

· ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area.

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

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

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

· Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading.

· Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers.

· DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]:

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: Increase the immediate precautionary measure distance, in the downwind direction, as necessary.

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.

Personal protection: chemical protection suit and particulate filter respirator adapted to the airborne concentration of the substance. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Sweep spilled substance into sealable containers. Carefully collect remainder. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

Absorb the spills with paper towels or like materials. Place in hood to evaporate followed by burning the towel. Dissolve in a combustible solvent. Scatter the spray of the solution into the furnace with after burners and alkali scrubber.

Hexachlorobenzene was successfully removed in four of five plants using biologic waste-water treatment process (accumulation of the compound in activated sludge in aeration and decantation tanks). Hexachlorobenzene was removed from the effluent at the rate of 96%.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": A high-efficiency particulate arrestor (HEPA) or charcoal filters can be used to minimize amt of carcinogen in exhausted air ventilated safety cabinets, lab hoods, glove boxes or animal rooms ... Filter housing that is designed so that used filters can be transferred into plastic bag without contaminating maintenance staff is avail commercially. Filters should be placed in plastic bags immediately after removal ... The plastic bag should be sealed immediately ... The sealed bag should be labelled properly ... Waste liquids ... should be placed or collected in proper containers for disposal. The lid should be secured & the bottles properly labelled. Once filled, bottles should be placed in plastic bag, so that outer surface ... is not contaminated ... The plastic bag should also be sealed & labelled. ... Broken glassware ... should be decontaminated by solvent extraction, by chemical destruction, or in specially designed incinerators. /Chemical Carcinogens/

Personal precautions: Use personal protective equipment. Avoid dust formation. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Avoid breathing dust. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Pick up and arrange disposal without creating dust. Sweep up and shovel. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U127 and D032, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": There is no universal method of disposal that has been proved satisfactory for all carcinogenic compounds & specific methods of chem destruction ... published have not been tested on all kinds of carcinogen-containing waste. ... summary of avail methods & recommendations ... /given/ must be treated as guide only. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Total destruction ... by incineration may be only feasible method for disposal of contaminated laboratory waste from biological expt. However, not all incinerators are suitable for this purpose. The most efficient type ... is probably the gas-fired type, in which a first-stage combustion with a less than stoichiometric air:fuel ratio is followed by a second stage with excess air. Some ... are designed to accept ... aqueous & organic-solvent solutions, otherwise it is necessary ... to absorb soln onto suitable combustible material, such as sawdust. Alternatively, chem destruction may be used, esp when small quantities ... are to be destroyed in laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arrestor) filters ... can be disposed of by incineration. For spent charcoal filters, the adsorbed material can be stripped off at high temp & carcinogenic wastes generated by this treatment conducted to & burned in an incinerator. ... LIQUID WASTE: ... Disposal should be carried out by incineration at temp that ... ensure complete combustion. SOLID WASTE: Carcasses of lab animals, cage litter & misc solid wastes ... should be disposed of by incineration at temp high enough to ensure destruction of chem carcinogens or their metabolites. /Chemical Carcinogens/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for HEXACHLOROBENZENE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Do not take working clothes home.

Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work.

Do not inhale spray mist. Keep away from children, unauthorized persons and domestic animals.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Smoking, drinking, eating, storage of food or of food & beverage containers or utensils, & the application of cosmetics should be prohibited in any laboratory. All personnel should remove gloves, if worn, after completion of procedures in which carcinogens have been used. They should ... wash ... hands, preferably using dispensers of liq detergent, & rinse ... thoroughly. Consideration should be given to appropriate methods for cleaning the skin, depending on nature of the contaminant. No standard procedure can be recommended, but the use of organic solvents should be avoided. Safety pipettes should be used for all pipetting. /Chemical Carcinogens/

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for HEXACHLOROBENZENE (18 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 152 [Substances - Toxic (Combustible)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Cover with plastic sheet to prevent spreading. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to containers. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. (ERG, 2024)

Separated from food and feedstuffs. Well closed. Store only in original container. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.

Separated from food and feedstuffs. Well closed.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Storage site should be as close as practicable to lab in which carcinogens are to be used, so that only small quantities required for ... expt need to be carried. Carcinogens should be kept in only one section of cupboard, an explosion-proof refrigerator or freezer (depending on chemicophysical properties ...) that bears appropriate label. An inventory ... should be kept, showing quantity of carcinogen & date it was acquired ... Facilities for dispensing ... should be contiguous to storage area. /Chemical Carcinogens/

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Keep in a dry place.

· 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].

0.006 [mg/m3]

120 [mg/m3]

690 [mg/m3]

0.002 [mg/m3]

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.002 mg/cu m, skin.

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.

A3; Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans.

0.002 mg/m

0.002 mg/m³ [1994]

skin absorption (H); carcinogen category: 4; pregnancy risk group: D

Acute Oral: 0.008 mg/kg/day (L134)

Intermediate Oral: 0.0001 mg/kg/day (L134)

Chronic Oral: 0.00005 mg/kg/day (L134)

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2 or water spray.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or regular foam.

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

· Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

· Avoid aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

· Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles.

· Do not get water inside containers.

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

· 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.

· For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn.

A harmful concentration of airborne particles can be reached quickly when dispersed, especially if powdered.

May cause mechanical irritation to the eyes (as a solid) and respiratory tract.

The substance may have effects on the liver, nervous system and skin. This may result in impaired functions of organs and skin lesions. This substance is possibly carcinogenic to humans. Animal tests show that this substance possibly causes toxic effects upon human reproduction.

Wear self-contained positive pressure breathing apparatus and full protective clothing. (USCG, 1999)

Protective gloves, protective clothing.

Wear face shield or eye protection in combination with breathing protection.

Respiratory protection: Where risk assessment shows air-purifying respirators are appropriate use a full-face particle respirator type N100 (US) or type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges as a backup to engineering controls. If the respirator is the sole means of protection, use a full-face supplied air respirator. Use respirators and components tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or CEN (EU). Hand protection: Handle with gloves. Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands. Full contact Material: Nitrile rubber (Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm Break through time: 480 min). Splash protection Material: Nitrile rubber (Minimum layer thickness: 0.11 mm Break through time: 480 min). Eye protection: Face shield and safety glasses Use equipment for eye protection tested and approved under appropriate government standards such as NIOSH (US) or EN 166(EU). Skin and body protection Complete suit protecting against chemicals, The type of protective equipment must be selected according to the concentration and amount of the dangerous substance at the specific workplace.

Use local exhaust.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": ... dispensers of liq detergent /should be available./ ... Safety pipettes should be used for all pipetting. ... In animal laboratory, personnel should ... wear protective suits (preferably disposable, one-piece & close-fitting at ankles & wrists), gloves, hair covering & overshoes. ... In chemical laboratory, gloves & gowns should always be worn ... however, gloves should not be assumed to provide full protection. Carefully fitted masks or respirators may be necessary when working with particulates or gases, & disposable plastic aprons might provide additional protection. ... gowns ... /should be/ of distinctive color, this is a reminder that they are not to be worn outside the laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

NO open flames. See Chemical Dangers.

PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! AVOID ALL CONTACT!

Hexachlorobenzene appears as a white crystalline substance. Insoluble in water and denser than water. Contact may irritate skin, eyes and mucous membranes. May be toxic by ingestion. Used to make other chemicals.

Colorless to white solid; [ICSC] White powder; [Aldrich MSDS]

COLOURLESS-TO-WHITE NEEDLE-LIKE CRYSTALS.

A white crystalline substance.

White needles

Colorless and sublimable prismatic crystals

Colorless crystals

612 °F at 760 mmHg (sublimes) (NTP, 1992)

323-326 °C

325 °C @760 [mm Hg]

441 to 444 °F (NTP, 1992)

228.83 °C

MP: 200 °C /Technical product/

441-444 °F

468 °F (NTP, 1992)

242 °C (closed cup)

242 °C c.c.

less than 1 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)

In water, 4.7X10-3 mg/L at 25 °C

Sparingly soluble in cold alcohol; soluble in benzene, chloroform, and ether

Soluble in carbon disulfide; sparingly soluble in carbon tetrachloride

6.2e-06 mg/mL at 25 °C

Solubility in water, g/l:

2.044 at 75.2 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

2.044 g/cu-cm at 23 °C

2.0 g/cm³

2.044 at 75.2 °F

2.044 @ 23°C

9.8 (NTP, 1992) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

9.83 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 9.8

1 mmHg at 237.9 °F ; 0.0000109 mmHg at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)

0.000018 [mmHg]

1.72X10-5 mm Hg at 25 °C

Vapor pressure, Pa at 20 °C: 0.001

1 mmHg at 237.9 °F

log Kow = 5.73

Henry's Law constant = 5.8X10-4 atm-cu m/mol at 25 °C.

Very stable, even to acids and bases.

Dangerous; When heated to decomposition, emits toxic fumes of /hydrogen chloride/.

This chemical is sensitive to moisture. Insoluble in water.

Aryl Halides

HEXACHLOROBENZENE reacts violently with dimethylformamide. (NTP, 1992).

DIMETHYL FORMAMIDE AND HEXACHLOROBENZENE REACT VIOLENTLY ABOVE 65 °C.

Violent reaction with dimethylformamide.

CDC-ATSDR Toxicological Profile

Based on representative levels of hexachlorobenzene in air, water, and food, the total intake of hexachlorobenzene by adults in the general population ... is predominantly from the diet. ... Hexachlorobenzene is readily absorbed by the oral route in experimental animals and poorly via the skin. ... In animals and humans, hexachlorobenzene accumulates in lipid-rich tissues, such as adipose tissue, adrenal cortex, bone marrow, skin and some endocrine tissues, and can be transferred to offspring both across the placenta and via mothers' milk. Hexachlorobenzene undergoes limited metabolism, yielding pentachlorophenol, tetrachlorohydroquinone and pentachlorothiophenol as the major metabolites in urine.... The acute toxicity of hexachlorobenzene to experimental animals is low ... In animal studies, hexachlorobenzene is not a skin or eye irritant ... The available data on the systemic toxicity of hexachlorobenzene indicate that the pathway for the biosynthesis of heme is a major target of hexachlorobenzene toxicity. Elevated levels of porphyrin and/or porphyrin precursors have been found in the liver, other tissues and excreta of several species of laboratory mammals ... Porphyria has been reported in a number of studies in rats with subchronic or chronic oral exposure ... Repeated exposure to hexachlorobenzene has also been shown to affect a wide range of organ systems (including the liver, lungs, kidneys, thyroid, skin and nervous and immune systems) although these have been reported less frequently than porphyria. Hexachlorobenzene is a mixed-type cytochrome P-450-inducing compound, with phenobarbital-inducible and 3-methylcholanthrene-inducible properties. It is known to bind to the Ah receptor. ... The carcinogenicity of hexachlorobenzene has been assessed in several adequate bioassays on rodents. ... There were increases in the incidence of liver cell tumors (hepatoma) ... hemangioendotheliomas of the liver ... adenomas of the thyroid ... neoplastic liver nodules and adrenal pheochromocytomas ... parathyroid adenomas ... renal cell adenomas ... hepatocellular carcinomas, bile duct adenomas/carcinomas ... and adrenal cortical adenomas. ... Hexachlorobenzene has little capability to induce directly gene mutation, chromosomal damage and DNA repair. It exhibited weak mutagenic activity ... There is also some evidence of low-level binding to DNA in vitro and in vivo, but at levels well below those expected for genotoxic carcinogens. In studies of reproduction .... /suggest/ specificity of hexachlorobenzene within the site of the ovary. ... The results of a number of studies have indicated that hexachlorobenzene affects the immune system .... Most data on the effects of hexachlorobenzene on humans originate from accidental poisonings that took place in Turkey in 1955-1959, in which more than 600 cases of porphyria cutanea tarda were identified. In this incident, disturbances in porphyrin metabolism, dermatological lesions, hyperpigmentation, hypertrichosis, enlarged liver, enlargement of the thyroid gland and lymph nodes, and (in roughly half the cases) osteoporosis or arthritis were observed, primarily in children. Breast-fed infants of mothers exposed to hexachlorobenzene in this incident developed a disorder called pembe yara (pink sore) and most died within a year. There is also limited evidence that porphyria cutanea tarda occurs in humans with relatively high exposure to hexachlorobenzene in the workplace or in the general environment. The few available epidemiological studies of cancer ... are insufficient to assess the carcinogenicity of hexachlorobenzene to humans. ... There are few experimental studies on which an environmental risk assessment can be made. ... However, hexachlorobenzene concentrations ... /suggest/ that hexachlorobenzene has the potential to harm embryos of sensitive bird species ... /and/ to cause adverse effects in ... fish-eating mammals..

Hexachlorobenzene causes porphyria by modifying sulfhydryl groups in the catalytic or substrate-binding sites of uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase. This inhibits uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase, resulting in a deficiency of the decarboxylation of uroporphyrinogen III and accumulation of uroporphyrins in the liver. In addition, metabolism of hexachlorobenzene by the cytochrome P-450 enzymes is believed to produce reactive electrophilic metabolites that covalently bind to cellular proteins and DNA, causing irreversible damage. Exposure to hexochlorobenzene also causes macrophages to be attracted to organs such as the spleen, lungs, and skin, where they become activated by the hexochlorobenzene. This leads to a cascade of reactions involving innate immune cells. The gene expression profiles provide evidence for the importance of macrophages and granulocytes and mediators released by these cells in the adverse inflammatory response against hexochlorobenzene. In this way, co-stimulatory or danger signals are generated that could polyclonally activate T cells. Hexachlorobenzene is a weak agonist for aryl hydrocarbon receptor and may exhibit some of its toxic effects by activating the gene-regulatory properties of this protein, possibly inducing cytochome P-450 enzymes. It may also act at certain endocrine receptors. (A14, L225, A156, A157, A60)

Hexachlorobenzene

8 x 10 ^-4 mg/kg-day

Semi-Volatile Organic Compound (SVOC)

Smith, C.D. and Nowell, L.H., 2024. Health-Based Screening Levels for evaluating water-quality data (3rd ed.). DOI:10.5066/F71C1TWP

Evaluation: There is inadequate evidence in humans for the carcinogenicity of hexachlorobenzene. There is sufficient evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of hexachlorobenzene. Overall evaluation: Hexachlorobenzene is possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B).

CLASSIFICATION: B2; probable human carcinogen. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: Hexachlorobenzene, when administered orally, has been shown to induce tumors in the liver, thyroid, and kidney in three rodent species. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Inadequate. ANIMAL CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Sufficient.

A3; Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans.

Hexachlorobenzene: reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.

Group 2B: Possibly carcinogenic to humans

Volume Sup 7: Overall Evaluations of Carcinogenicity: An Updating of IARC Monographs Volumes 1 to 42, 1987; 440 pages; ISBN 92-832-1411-0 (out of print)

Volume 79: (2001) Some Thyrotropic Agents

2B, possibly carcinogenic to humans. (L135)

Chronic exposure to hexachlorobenzene can damage the liver, thyroid, nervous system, bones, kidneys, blood, and immune and endocrine systems. It also causes a syndrome, called black sore, that is characterized by dermal blistering and epidermolysis, pigmentation and scarring, alopecia, photosensitivity, hepatomegaly, porphyria, suppurative arthritis, osteomyelitis, and osteoporosis of the bones of the hands. It may also cause a liver disease called porphyria cutanea tarda. This disease can cause red-colored urine, skin sores, change in skin color, arthritis, and problems of the liver, nervous system, and stomach. Hexachlorobenzene also affects development and results in lower survival rates of children of exposed mothers. It is also believed to be a human carcinogen. (T10, L225)

The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation, through the skin and by ingestion.

Oral (L225); inhalation (L225) ; dermal (L225)

MAY BE ABSORBED!

Hexachlorobenzene causes a syndrome, called black sore, that is characterized by dermal blistering and epidermolysis, pigmentation and scarring, alopecia, photosensitivity, hepatomegaly, porphyria, suppurative arthritis, osteomyelitis, and osteoporosis of the bones of the hands. It may also cause a liver disease called porphyria cutanea tarda. This disease can cause red-colored urine, skin sores, change in skin color, arthritis, and problems of the liver, nervous system, and stomach. (L225)

Cancer, Developmental (effects during periods when organs are developing) , Hepatic (Liver), Neurological (Nervous System), Reproductive (Producing Children)

Chemical: HEXACHLOROBENZENE

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.

Other Poison - Organochlorine

Reproductive Toxin - A chemical that is toxic to the reproductive system, including defects in the progeny and injury to male or female reproductive function. Reproductive toxicity includes developmental effects. See Guidelines for Reproductive Toxicity Risk Assessment.

IARC Carcinogen - Class 3: Chemicals are not classifiable by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

NTP Carcinogen - Reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.

ACGIH Carcinogen - Confirmed Animal.

1 x 10^-5 mg/kg-day

PDF Document

See the IRIS entry for Hexachlorobenzene

IRIS Current

ATSDR Final

PPRTV Memo

PPRTV Current

LC50 (rat) = 3,600 mg/m3

LD50: 3500 mg/kg (Oral, Rat) (T10)

LD50 Rat oral 3500 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse oral 4000 mg/kg

LD50 Rabbit oral 2600 mg/kg

LC50; Species: Oncorhynchus kisutch (coho salmon) weight 0.5 g; Conditions: static bioassay, 7 °C; Concentration: >50 mg/L for 96 hr (95% confidence limit) /technical 80-96%/

LC50; Species: Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) weight 0.7 g; Conditions: static bioassay, 20 °C; Concentration: 22 mg/L for 96 hr @ 20 °C (95% confidence limit) /technical 80-96%/

LC50; Species: Ictalurus punctatus (channel catfish) weight 0.8 g; Conditions: static bioassay, 20 °C; Concentration: 14 mg/L for 96 hr (95% confidence limit, 11-16 mg/L) /technical 80-96%/

LC50; Species: Lepomis macrochirus (bluegill) weight 1.0 g; Conditions: static bioassay, 20 °C, hard water; Concentration: 12 mg/L for 96 hr /technical 80-96%/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for HEXACHLOROBENZENE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ The toxicities of several chlorinated benzene compounds to fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) were determined. Chronic toxicities were estimated from 32-33 day embryo through early juvenile development exposures. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) was nontoxic at concentrations of 4.8 ug/L (near water saturation), the highest concentration that could be maintained in the test chamber. The mean HCB tissue concentration obtained at the no observable effect concentration of 4.8 ug/L was 97 ug/g. The bioconcentration factor was 22,000 for HCB.

2.10e-01

9.60e-01

6.10e-03

2.70e-02

9.80e-03

1.00e+00

1.20e-04

1.30e-02

1.60e+00

4.60e-04

Volatile

2.30e+00

3.50e+01

6.10e-01

2.70e+00

6.00e-01

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. The substance may cause long-term effects in the aquatic environment. Bioaccumulation of this chemical may occur in plants and fish. This substance does enter the environment under normal use. Great care, however, should be taken to avoid any additional release, for example through inappropriate disposal.

Hexachlorobenzene's production and use in organic syntheses and in chemical laboratories for research purposes may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Although hexachlorobenzene is not currently manufactured as a commercial end product in the United States, it is still being generated inadvertently as a by-product and/or impurity in several chemical processes, such as the manufacture of chlorinated solvents, chlorinated aromatics and pesticides. Hexachlorobenzene is released directly to the environment by incomplete combustion processes and releases from old dumpsites. Its former use as a pesticide released it directly to the environment. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 1.72X10-5 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates hexachlorobenzene will exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the atmosphere. Monitoring studies have demonstrated that the vapor-phase generally predominates. Vapor-phase hexachlorobenzene 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 about 1.6 years. Vapor-phase photolysis is not expected to be an important fate process. Detection in rain and snow indicate hexachlorobenzene can be removed from air by wet deposition. Particulate-phase hexachlorobenzene may also be removed by dry deposition. If released to soil, hexachlorobenzene is expected to be immobile based upon a measured log Koc range of 3.6 to 5.5. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 5.8X10-4 atm-cu m/mole, although strong adsorption will attenuate volatilization. Hexachlorobenzene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Hexachlorobenzene is persistent to either abiotic or biodegradation processes in soil. One study measured a half-life of 3-6 years for hexachlorobenzene in soils. If released into water, hexachlorobenzene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the Koc. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 7.5 hours and 7.5 days, respectively. However, volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be attenuated by adsorption to suspended solids and sediment in the water column. The volatilization half-life from a model pond (2 m deep) is estimated as approximately 5 years if adsorption is considered. A BCF range of 1,600 to 30,000 suggests bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is very high. Hexachlorobenzene is resistant to aerobic biodegradation. Anaerobic biodegradation in water-sediment varies widely with half-lives ranging from weeks to years with an intermediate value of roughly 1.7 years. Hydrolysis is not an important fate process. Photolysis half-lives in shallow water exposed to sunlight may be on the order of 70 days. Occupational exposure to hexachlorobenzene may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where hexachlorobenzene is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to hexachlorobenzene via inhalation of ambient air, ingestion of food and drinking water. A main exposure pathway for the general public to hexachlorobenzene is from the ingestion of food, including fish caught in contaminated areas, and the ingestion of contaminated breast milk for infants. (SRC)

Hexachlorobenzene's production and use in organic syntheses(1) and in chemical laboratories for research purposes(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Its former use in the USA as a fungicide(3) resulted in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

Aerial dispersion of hexachlorobenzene liberated at former hexachlorobenzene manufacturing plants and its inadvertent production as by-product or waste from related chemical industries are the major pathways for entry of this compound into the environment(1).

Although hexachlorobenzene is not currently manufactured as a commercial end product in the United States(1), it is still being generated inadvertently as by-product and/or impurity in several chemical processes, such as the manufacture of chlorinated solvents, chlorinated aromatics and pesticides(2). Hexachlorobenzene may be released to the environment as a waste product in the production of tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene, carbon tetrachloride, chlorine, dimethyltetrachlorophthalate, vinyl chloride, atrazine, propazine, simazine, and pentachloronitrobenzene(3-5). Hexachlorobenzene is also released directly to the environment by incomplete combustion, and releases from old dumpsites(2). Volatilization of hexachlorobenzene in the soil from past contamination (such as pesticide uses) is another potential source of atmospheric emission(2). Hexachlorobenzene's former use as a pesticide and fungicide (2,3) resulted in its direct release to the environment(SRC). Hexachlorobenzene was used as a fungicide in the United States until 1984, when the last registered use of the compound in the USA as a pesticide was cancelled(1).

Potential origin of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) wastes is HCB production operation, chlorinated solvents production, pesticide production and formulation, electrolytic chlorine production, ordinance and pyrotechnics production, sodium chlorate production, aluminum manufacture, seed treatment industry, pentachlorophenol production, wood preservative industry, electrode manufacture, vinyl chloride monomer production, and synthetic rubber production. /From table/

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a recommended classification scheme(1), measured log Koc values in the range of 3.6-5.5(2-4) indicate that hexachlorobenzene is expected to be immobile in soil(SRC). Volatilization of hexachlorobenzene from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 5.8X10-4 atm-cu m/mole at 25 °C(5). However, adsorption to soil is expected to attenuate volatilization(SRC). Hexachlorobenzene is not expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 1.72X10-5 mm Hg at 25 °C(6). Hexachlorobenzene is persistent to either abiotic or biodegradation processes in soil(7). One study measured a half-life (first-order kinetics) of 3-6 years for hexachlorobenzene in soils(7,8). The half-life for residence of hexachlorobenzene in soil has been estimated to be 970-2100 days with the major loss process from soil at the surface being volatilization(9).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), measured log Koc values of 4.9-5.5) measured in sediment(2,3) indicate that hexachlorobenzene is expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(4) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 5.8X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(5), but adsorption is expected to attenuate this process(SRC). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(3), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 7.5 hours and 7.5 days, respectively, if adsorption is ignored(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model pond (2 m deep) is approximately 5 years if adsorption is considered(6). According to a classification scheme(7), BCF values in the range of 1,600 to 30,000 in fish(8) suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is very high. Hexachlorobenzene is resistant to aerobic biodegradation(8). Anaerobic biodegradation in water-sediment varies widely with half-lives ranging from weeks to years(8) with an intermediate value of roughly 1.7 years(8). Hydrolysis is not an important fate process for hexachlorobenzene(8). Photolysis half-lives in shallow water exposed to sunlight may be on the order of 70 days(8).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), hexachlorobenzene, which has a vapor pressure of 1.71X10-5 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist in both the vapor and particulate phases in the ambient atmosphere. Monitoring studies have demonstrated that the vapor phase generally predominates(3). Vapor-phase hexachlorobenzene is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 1.6 years(SRC) from its rate constant of 2.7X10-14 cu cm/molec-sec(SRC). Results of vapor phase photolysis studies indicate direct photolysis is not expected to be an important fate process in the atmosphere(3). Particulate-phase hexachlorobenzene may be physically removed from the air by wet and dry deposition(SRC). Hexachlorobenzene has been detected in many precipitation monitoring studies (both rain water and snow)(4); therefore, removal from air occurs via wet deposition(SRC).

Little to no biodegradation was noted in biodegradation screening tests(1,3,4), in activated sludge(2,5), or in soil(6-8). Measurement of CO2 evolution from suspended soil cultures over a 14-day incubation period were as follows: 0.4% under aerobic conditions, 0.2% under anaerobic conditions(9).

AEROBIC: Hexachlorobenzene, present at 100 mg/L, reached 0% of its theoretical BOD in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(1). The aerobic half-life of hexachlorobenzene was reported as approximately 2.6 years in fresh waters(2). Hexachlorobenzene was shown to slowly biodegrade in laboratory experiments using sediment from a polluted region of the Rhine River(3). An initial concentration of 161 ug/kg was 77% biodegraded following a 78 week incubation period(3). The half-life of hexachlorobenzene in sewage sludge amended soil was 622 days(4).

ANAEROBIC: Reductive dechlorination of hexachlorobenzene to pentachlorobenzene and other lower chlorinated benzenes may be possible under anaerobic conditions, but there is inconsistent data regarding the rates of biodegradation(1-5). The anaerobic half-life of hexachlorobenzene was reported as approximately 10 years in fresh waters(1). A culturally enriched anaerobic microbial consortium was shown to biodegrade hexachlorobenzene with reported half-lives in the range of several days to a few weeks, but the native anaerobic microbial population (from Lake Ketelmeer sediment) was shown to biodegrade hexachlorobenzene more slowly, with a maximum half-life of about 7 years(2). Hexachlorobenzene was dechlorinated to tri- and dichlorobenzenes in an acclimated anaerobic sewage sludge over a 3 week incubation period(3). Pseudo first-order rate constants of hexachlorobenzene in sediment slurries amended with nonionic surfactants were reported in the range of 0.017 to 0.005 days-1, corresponding to half-lives of about 41 to 139 days(4). Hexachlorobenzene was biodegraded by acclimated anaerobic sediment obtained from the Tsurumi River, Japan with a biodegradation half-life of 28 days and the following biodegradation products: pentachlorbenzene; >1,2,3,4-tetrachlorobenzene and 1,2,3,5-tetrachlorobenzene; >1,3,5-trichlorobenzene; >1,2,4-trichlorobenzene; >1,3-dichlorobenzene; >1,4-dichlorobenzene and monochlorobenzene(5).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of hexachlorobenzene with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals has been measured as 2.7X10-14 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 1.6 years at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(SRC). The photo-oxidation half-life (first-order kinetics) of hexachlorobenzene was estimated (first-order kinetics) to be 0.63 years (230 days), 1.94 years (708 days), and 6.28 years (2,292 days) in air in tropical/subtropical regions, temperate/boreal regions, and polar regions, respectively(2). Photodegradation of hexachlorobenzene in its vapor phase, or as an adsorbable on silica gel, has been reported as not occurring when hexachlorobenzene was irradiated with ultraviolet radiation of wavelength 290 nm for 6 days(3). Hexachlorobenzene was shown to photodegrade when dipped onto a nano-titanium dioxide film and exposed to light >290 nm(3). Hexachlorobenzene absorbs UV light >290 nm and has been shown to photodegrade in water-acetonitrile solution when exposed to light >290 nm(4). Surface water photolysis studies have suggested that photolysis of hexachlorobenzene is a feasible loss process with half-lives ranging from 6.17 to 70 days with 70 days being a more representative environmental half-life(3). Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important fate process for hexachlorobenzene(3); one study observed zero hydrolysis after 13 days for pH values of 3, 7, and 11 at 85 °C(3).

BCF values of 2,700 to 4,800 were measured in carp exposed to 10 ug/L of hexachlorobenzene during an 8 week incubation period and BCF values of 1,600 to 3,900 were measured in carp exposed to 1 ug/L of hexachlorobenzene during an 8 week incubation period(1). Log BCF values in rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) were given as 3.7-4.3(2-4) and in fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas) and sunfish (Lepomis cyanellus) log BCF values of 4.21 and 4.34, respectively, were reported(3). After an 8-week exposure period of carp (Cyprinus carpio) to concentrations of 0.5 and 0.05 ug/L of hexachlorobenzene, the BCFs were 11,000-27,000 and 6,000-30,000, respectively(5). According to a classification scheme(6), these BCF values suggest that bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is very high, provided the compound is not metabolized by the organism(SRC).

Larval stages of Chironmus decorus were used to define the bioaccumulation of sediment sorbed mono-, di-, tri-, and hexachlorobenzenes. Larvae were exposed to high and low organic content sediments equilibrated with individual radiolabeled chlorobenzenes prior to testing. The uptake of chlorobenzenes by midge larvae was rapid for all compounds, and apparent steady state conditions were reached within 48 hrs of exposure. Bioconcentration factors for the accumulation of chlorobenzenes from sediments and from interstitial and overlying waters were related to the octanol/water partition coefficients of the cmpd. Bioaccumulation was dependent on the concentration of the chemicals in interstitial water.

A list is given of environmental chemicals detectable in adipose tissue and/or milk in non-occupationally exposed individuals that include ... . Besides their physiochemical properties ..., the list contains average BCFs, ADIs, ... production figures, fate in the environment, concentrations in human adipose tissue, and data from total diet studies from market basket investigations are given. Bioconcentration factors (wet wt basis) of these compounds are between 3 and 47 times higher in humans than in rats.

A log Koc value of 5.5 (Koc of 3.2X10+5) was reported for hexachlorobenzene in freshwater river sediment(1). A log Koc value of 4.9 (Koc of 7.9X10+4) was reported for hexachlorobenzene in sediment obtained from the Ise Bay, Japan(2). Measured log Koc values of 3.6 (Koc of 4X10+3)(3) and 4.0 (Koc of 1X10+4)(4) were reported in soils. Log Koc values of 6.42 and 5.56 (Koc values of 2.6X10+6 and 3.6X10+5) were determined for two sediment layers from a lake(5). Hexachlorobenzene has measured log Koc value of 3.99 (Koc of 9.8X10+3) reported for soils(6). Hexachlorobenzene was found to desorb very slowly from sediment in water(7). According to a recommended classification scheme(8), these Koc values suggest that hexachlorobenzene is expected to be immobile in soil(SRC).

Hexachlorobenzene transport in water moving through soil is negligible but long-term persistence and appreciable vapor pressure allow significant volatilization. Water and soil coverings were efficient in reducing volatilization (possible landfill application).

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U127 and D032, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": There is no universal method of disposal that has been proved satisfactory for all carcinogenic compounds & specific methods of chem destruction ... published have not been tested on all kinds of carcinogen-containing waste. ... summary of avail methods & recommendations ... /given/ must be treated as guide only. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Total destruction ... by incineration may be only feasible method for disposal of contaminated laboratory waste from biological expt. However, not all incinerators are suitable for this purpose. The most efficient type ... is probably the gas-fired type, in which a first-stage combustion with a less than stoichiometric air:fuel ratio is followed by a second stage with excess air. Some ... are designed to accept ... aqueous & organic-solvent solutions, otherwise it is necessary ... to absorb soln onto suitable combustible material, such as sawdust. Alternatively, chem destruction may be used, esp when small quantities ... are to be destroyed in laboratory. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arrestor) filters ... can be disposed of by incineration. For spent charcoal filters, the adsorbed material can be stripped off at high temp & carcinogenic wastes generated by this treatment conducted to & burned in an incinerator. ... LIQUID WASTE: ... Disposal should be carried out by incineration at temp that ... ensure complete combustion. SOLID WASTE: Carcasses of lab animals, cage litter & misc solid wastes ... should be disposed of by incineration at temp high enough to ensure destruction of chem carcinogens or their metabolites. /Chemical Carcinogens/

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for HEXACHLOROBENZENE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (Combustible)/ Fire or Explosion: Combustible material: may burn but does not ignite readily. Containers may explode when heated. Runoff may pollute waterways. Substance may be transported in a molten form.

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (Combustible)/ Health: Highly toxic, may be fatal if inhaled, swallowed or absorbed through skin. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Avoid any skin contact. Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Fire may produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (Combustible)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. As an 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. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas.

/GUIDE 152: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC (Combustible)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible.

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for HEXACHLOROBENZENE (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 2729; Hexachlorobenzene

IMO 6.1; Hexachlorobenzene

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.

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": Procurement ... of unduly large amt ... should be avoided. To avoid spilling, carcinogens should be transported in securely sealed glass bottles or ampoules, which should themselves be placed inside strong screw-cap or snap-top container that will not open when dropped & will resist attack from the carcinogen. Both bottle & the outside container should be appropriately labelled. ... National post offices, railway companies, road haulage companies & airlines have regulations governing transport of hazardous materials. These authorities should be consulted before ... material is shipped. /Chemical Carcinogens/

PRECAUTIONS FOR "CARCINOGENS": When no regulations exist, the following procedure must be adopted. The carcinogen should be enclosed in a securely sealed, watertight container (primary container), which should be enclosed in a second, unbreakable, leakproof container that will withstand chem attack from the carcinogen (secondary container). The space between primary & secondary container should be filled with absorbent material, which would withstand chem attack from the carcinogen & is sufficient to absorb the entire contents of the primary container in the event of breakage or leakage. Each secondary container should then be enclosed in a strong outer box. The space between the secondary container & the outer box should be filled with an appropriate quantity of shock-absorbent material. Sender should use fastest & most secure form of transport & notify recipient of its departure. If parcel is not received when expected, carrier should be informed so that immediate effort can be made to find it. Traffic schedules should be consulted to avoid ... arrival on weekend or holiday ... /Chemical Carcinogens/

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: III