Sodium Cyanide

H290 (45.3%): May be corrosive to metals [Warning Corrosive to Metals]

H300+H310+H330 (36%): Fatal if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, dermal; acute toxicity, inhalation]

H300 (100%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H310 (100%): Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H315 (12.2%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (30.5%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H319 (14.3%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H330 (100%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H372 (44.8%): Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]

H400 (98.8%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H410 (98.8%): Very toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P234, P260, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P284, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P319, P320, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P361+P364, P362+P364, P390, P391, P403+P233, P405, P406, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 433 reports by companies from 29 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.

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

H310: Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H316: Causes mild skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319: Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H361: Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]

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

P203, P260, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P301+P316, P302+P352, P305+P351+P338, P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P361+P364, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H315: Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

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

P260, P262, P264, P270, P271, P280, P284, P301+P316, P302+P352, P304+P340, P316, P320, P321, P330, P332+P317, P361+P364, P362+P364, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Administration of oxygen may be needed. Fresh air, rest. No mouth-to-mouth artificial respiration. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Wear protective gloves when administering first aid. Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower. Refer immediately 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. Administration of oxygen may be needed. NO mouth-to-mouth artificial respiration. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Warning: Heart palpitations may occur within minutes after exposure. Caution is advised. Effects may be delayed.

Signs and Symptoms of Acute Sodium Cyanide Exposure: Signs and symptoms of acute exposure to sodium cyanide may include hypertension (high blood pressure) and tachycardia (rapid heart rate), followed by hypotension (low blood pressure) and bradycardia (slow heart rate). Cardiac arrhythmias and other cardiac abnormalities are common. Cyanosis (blue tint to the skin and mucous membranes) and cherry-red or bloody mucous membranes may occur. Tachypnea (rapid respiratory rate) may be followed by respiratory depression. Pulmonary edema and lung hemorrhage may also occur. Headache, vertigo (dizziness), agitation, and giddiness may be followed by combative behavior, dilated and unreactive pupils, convulsions, paralysis, and coma. Sodium cyanide is irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. Lacrimation (tearing) and a burning sensation of the mouth and throat are common. Increased salivation, nausea, and vomiting are often seen.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to sodium cyanide may require decontamination and life support for the victims. All exposed persons should be transported to a health care facility as quickly as possible. 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 sodium cyanide.

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. IMMEDIATELY begin administering 100% oxygen to all victims. Monitor victims for respiratory distress.Warning: To prevent self-poisoning, avoid mouth-to-mouth breathing; use a forced-oxygen mask. Direct oral contact with sodium cyanide-contaminated persons or their gastric contents may result in self-poisoning.

3. RUSH to a health care facility!

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

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self- exposure to sodium cyanide.

4. Remove contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

5. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes.

6. Wash exposed skin areas twice with soap and water.

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

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. IMMEDIATELY begin administering 100% oxygen to all victims. Monitor victims for respiratory distress.Warning: To prevent self-poisoning, avoid mouth-to-mouth breathing; use a forced-oxygen mask. Direct oral contact with sodium cyanide-contaminated persons or their gastric contents may result in self-poisoning.

2. RUSH to a health care facility!

3. DO NOT induce vomiting. Ipecac is not recommended for ingestion of sodium cyanide.

5. Activated charcoal may be administered if victims are conscious and alert. Use 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) for children, 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) for adults, with 125 to 250 mL (1/2 to 1 cup) of water.

6. Promote excretion by administering a saline cathartic or sorbitol to conscious and alert victims. Children require 15 to 30 g (1/2 to 1 oz) of cathartic; 50 to 100 g (1-3/4 to 3-1/2 oz) is recommended for adults. (EPA, 1998)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 157 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible / Water-Sensitive)]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. Specific First Aid: For corrosives, in case of contact, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 30 minutes. Additional flushing may be required. In case of skin contact with Hydrofluoric acid (UN1790), if calcium gluconate gel is available, rinse 5 minutes, then apply gel. Otherwise, continue rinsing until medical treatment is available. (ERG, 2024)

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.

Full protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus, rubber gloves, boots, and bands around legs, arms, and waist should be provided. No skin surface should be exposed. Normal fire fighting procedures may be used.

Fight fire from maximum distance. Move container from area if you can do it without risk. Dike fire control water for later disposal. Do not scatter the material.

Use water. Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide, water spray, or foam for small fires, water spray, fog, or foam for large fires. (EPA, 1998)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 157 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible / Water-Sensitive)]:

Note: Some foams will react with the material and release corrosive/toxic gases.

SMALL FIRE: CO2 (except for Cyanides), dry chemical, dry sand, alcohol-resistant foam.

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

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. (ERG, 2024)

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

- Sodium cyanide is non-combustible.

- The agent itself does not burn.

- Sodium cyanide releases highly flammable and toxic hydrogen cyanide gas on contact with acids or water.

- Fire will produce irritating, corrosive, and/or toxic gases.

- Note: Most foams will react with the agent and release corrosive/toxic gases.

- For small fires, do not use carbon dioxide; use dry chemical, dry sand, or alcohol-resistant foam.

- For large fires, use water spray, fog, or alcohol-resistant foam. Move containers from the fire area if it is possible to do so without risk to personnel. Use water spray or fog; do not use straight streams. Dike fire control water for later disposal; do not scatter the material.

- For fire involving tanks or car/trailer loads, fight the fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tanks. Always stay away from tanks engulfed in fire.

- Run-off from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic, and it may cause pollution.

- If the situation allows, control and properly dispose of run-off (effluent).

Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers must not be used where cyanide salts are present. /Cyanide salts/

Wear chemical protective suit with self-contained breathing apparatus.

Avoid carbon dioxide extinguishers. Extinguish fire using agent suitable for surrounding fire. Use water spray to keep fire-exposed containers cool.

If material 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. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide. Use water spray to knock-down vapors. /Sodium cyanide solution/

If material involved in fire: Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire. (Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty.) Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide. 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 knock-down vapors. /Sodium cyandie, solid/

Not combustible, but if involved in a fire decomposes to produce hydrogen cyanide & oxides of nitrogen.

· 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.

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

· All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded.

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

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors.

· DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS.

· Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material.

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

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.

HCN - when spill Sodium cyanide, solid into water.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 157 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible / Water-Sensitive)]:

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 1689 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)

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

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 in water

Small spill:

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

Large spill:

- 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: 0.2 km (0.2 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 0.9 km (0.6 mi)

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Ventilation. Sweep spilled substance into covered dry, sealable, labelled containers. Cautiously neutralize remainder with sodium hypochlorite solution.

WASTE CYANIDE SALTS FROM CASE HARDENING OF STEEL ARE DESTROYED BY REACTING THE SALTS AT 650-700 °C WITH WASTE FERRIC HYDROXIDE SLUDGES FROM VARIOUS SOURCES. /CYANIDE SALTS/

Environmental considerations - Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, or holding area to contain liquid or solid material. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Cover solids with a plastic sheet to prevent dissolving in rain or fire fighting water. /Sodium cyanide, solid/

Environmental considerations - Land spill: Dig a pit, pond, lagoon, or holding area to contain liquid or solid material. /SRP: If time permits, pits, ponds, lagoons, soak holes, or holding areas should be sealed with an impermeable flexible membrane liner./ Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash or cement powder. Cover solids with a plastic sheet to prevent dissolving in rain or fire fighting water. /Sodium cyanide solution/

Environmental considerations - Air spill: Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors. Vapor knock down water is corrosive or toxic and should be diked for containment. /Sodium cyanide solution; sodium cyanide, solid/

Excerpt from ERG Guide 157 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Non-Combustible / Water-Sensitive)]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. A vapor-suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas.

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. (ERG, 2024)

Separated from strong oxidants, acids, food and feedstuffs, carbon dioxide and products containing water. Dry. Well closed. Keep in a well-ventilated room. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from water, acids, carbon dioxide.

Cyanide salts as solids must be stored in sealed or tightly closed containers. No hooks should be used in handling cyanide containers. ... Storage areas must be adequately ventilated to ensure that cyanide concentrations do not exceed the recommended workplace environmental limits. /Cyanide salts/

ALL CONTAINERS OF CYANIDE SALTS SHOULD BE KEPT COVERED OR IN EXHAUST HOOD WHEN NOT IN USE. /CYANIDES/

Cyanide salts as solids or solutions must be ... protected from corrosion or damage. They should be stored so there is no contact with nitrate-nitrite mixtures or peroxides. /Cyanide salts/

· 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].

3.8 [mg/m3], as CN, inhalable fraction[German Research Foundation (DFG)]

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: mg/m3)

AEGL 2: Irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape (Unit: mg/m3)

AEGL 3: Life-threatening health effects or death (Unit: mg/m3)

5.0 mg/m3

34 mg/m3

54 mg/m3

20 mg/m3

42 mg/m3

4.0 mg/m3

14 mg/m3

30 mg/m3

2.6 mg/m3

7.0 mg/m3

17 mg/m3

2.0 mg/m3

13 mg/m3

NOTE THAT VALUES ARE IN mg/m3, NOT ppm.

AEGLs Status: Final

4.0 [mg/m3]

14 [mg/m3]

30 [mg/m3]

C 5 mg/m3 (4.7 ppm) [10-minute] [*Note: The REL also applies to other cyanides (as CN) except Hydrogen cyanide.]

5.0 [mg/m3], as CN

TWA 5 mg/m3 [*Note: The PEL also applies to other cyanides (as CN) except Hydrogen cyanide.]

25 mg CN/m3 (NIOSH, 2024)

25.0 [mg/m3], as CN

25 mg/cu m (as CN)

25 mg/m3 (as CN)

See: cyanides

Ceiling limit: 5 mg/cu m, skin

(ceiling value): 5 mg/m

· Note: Some foams will react with the material and release corrosive/toxic gases.

Small Fire

· CO2 (except for Cyanides), dry chemical, dry sand, alcohol-resistant foam.

Large Fire

Sodium cyanide appears as a white crystalline solid, lump solid or powder. A deadly human poison by ingestion. Toxic by skin absorption through open wounds, by ingestion, and by inhalation of dust.

Sodium cyanide solution appears as a clear colorless aqueous solution.

CBI; Large Crystals; Other Solid; Liquid; Other Solid; Large Crystals; Liquid

White, granular or crystalline solid with a faint, almond-like odor; [NIOSH] Deliquescent; [CHEMINFO]

WHITE HYGROSCOPIC CRYSTALLINE POWDER WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR. ODOURLESS WHEN DRY.

White, granular or crystalline solid with a faint, almond-like odor.

White crystalline or granular powder.

White cubic crystals

WHITE SOLID IN FORM OF GRANULES, FLAKES, OR EGGS (RESEMBLING CHICKEN EGGS)

White, granular or crystalline solid.

Odorless when perfectly dry, emits odor of hydrogen cyanide when damp

Faint odor of bitter almonds

Faint almond-like odor.

2725 °F at 760 mmHg (EPA, 1998)

1496 °C @760 [mm Hg]

1047 °F (EPA, 1998)

Not combustible (EPA, 1998)

greater than or equal to 100 mg/mL at 68 °F (NTP, 1992)

48 G/100 CC WATER @ 10 °C

82 G/100 CC WATER @ 35 °C

Slightly sol in alcohol

Solubility in water, g/l at 20 °C: 480-520 (freely soluble)

(77 °F): 58%

1.6 at 77 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

1.595 g/cu cm @ 20 °C

1.6 g/cm³

1.6 @25 °C

1 mmHg at 1502.6 °F (EPA, 1998)

1 mm Hg @ 817 °C; 10 mm Hg @ 983 °C

Vapor pressure, kPa at 800 °C: 0.1

1 [mm Hg] @817 °C

0 mmHg (approx)

AQ SOLN ... RAPIDLY DECOMPOSES ON STANDING.

Aqueous solutions of sodium cyanide are slightly hydrolyzed (Kh= 2.5X10-5) at ordinary temperatures to produce hydrogen cyanide.

Not flammable (USCG, 1999)

... If involved in a fire decomposes to produce hydrogen cyanide and oxides of nitrogen.

4 cP @ 30 °C (26% aqueous soln)

Corrosive to aluminum.

3041 J/g

Aq soln strongly alkaline

Deliquescent. Soluble in water. Slowly decomposed by water and very rapidly by acids to give off hydrogen cyanide, a flammable poison gas.

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 Cyanide gas will be created in 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.

Slowly evolves flammable and poisonous hydrogen cyanide gas.

Cyanides, Inorganic

Bases, Weak

Water and Aqueous Solutions

Water-Reactive

SODIUM CYANIDE produces deadly and flammable hydrogen cyanide gas pon contact with acids, even very weak acids , e.g., carbon dioxide dissolved in water (soda pop). Reacts violently with fluorine, magnesium, nitric acid, nitrates and nitrites [Sax, 9th ed., 1996, p. 2958]. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.

SODIUM CYANIDE SOLUTION is weakly basic. Reacts with acids of all kinds to generate quantities of very poisonous hydrogen cyanide gas. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, especially if solution dries out. Gives insoluble products with silver(I), mercury(I) and lead(II) ions that may decompose violently under certain conditions.

Violent reaction with fluorine /gas/, magnesium, nitrates, nitric acid ...

Hydrogen cyanide and mercury (II) cyanide: The cyanide, /mercury(II) cyanide/, is a friction-and impact-sensitive explosive and may initiate detonation of liquid hydrogen cyanide. Other metal cyanides are similar. /Metal cyanides/

Dangerous; on contact with acid, acid fumes, water, or steam ... will produce toxic and flammable vapors of CN- and sodium oxide.

Cyanide may react with carbon dioxide in ordinary air to form toxic hydrogen cyanide gas. /Cyanide/

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for SODIUM CYANIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Strong oxidizers (such as acids, acid salts, chlorates & nitrates) [Note: Absorbs moisture from the air forming a syrup.]

IDENTIFICATION: Other cyanides, such as sodium and potassium cyanide, are solid or crystalline hygroscopic salts widely used in ore extracting processes for the recovery of gold and silver, electroplating, case-hardening of steel, base metal flotation, metal degreasing, dyeing, printing, and photography. They are also widely used in the synthesis of organic and inorganic chemicals (e.g., nitriles, carboxylic acids, amides, esters, and amines; heavy metal cyanides) and in the production of chelating agents. HUMAN EXPOSURE: Cyanides are well absorbed via the gastrointestinal tract or skin and rapidly absorbed via the respiratory tract. Once absorbed, cyanide is rapidly and ubiquitously distributed throughout the body, although the highest levels are typically found in the liver, lungs, blood, and brain. There is no accumulation of cyanide in the blood or tissues following chronic or repeated exposure. Approximately 80% of absorbed cyanide is metabolized to thiocyanate in the liver by the mitochondrial sulfur transferase enzyme rhodanese and other sulfur transferases. Thiocyanate is excreted in the urine. Minor pathways for cyanide detoxification involve reaction with cystine to produce aminothiazoline- and iminothiazolidinecarboxylic acids and combination with hydroxycobalamin (vitamin B12a) to form cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12); these end-products are also excreted in the urine. The principal features of the toxicity profile for cyanide are its high acute toxicity by all routes of administration, with a very steep and rate-dependent dose-effect curve, and chronic toxicity, probably mediated through the main metabolite and detoxification product, thiocyanate. The toxic effects of cyanide ion in humans and animals are generally similar and are believed to result from inactivation of cytochrome oxidase and inhibition of cellular respiration and consequent histotoxic anoxia. The primary targets of cyanide toxicity in humans are the cardiovascular, respiratory, and central nervous systems. The endocrine system is also a potential target for long-term toxicity, as a function of continued exposure to thiocyanate, which prevents the uptake of iodine in the thyroid and acts as a goitrogenic agent. Sequele after severe acute intoxications may include neuropsychiatric manifestations and Parkinson-type disease. Cyanide from tobacco smoke has been implicated as a contributing factor in tobacco-alcohol amblyopia. Long-term exposure to lower concentrations of cyanide in occupational settings can result in a variety of symptoms related to central nervous system effects. Cyanides are weakly irritating to the skin and eye; alkali salts have not been identified. ANIMAL/PLANT STUDIES: The principal features of the toxicity profile for cyanide are its high acute toxicity by all routes of administration, with a very steep and rate-dependent dose-effect curve, and chronic toxicity, probably mediated through the main metabolite and detoxification product, thiocyanate. The toxic effects of cyanide ion in humans and animals are generally similar and are believed to result from inactivation of cytochrome oxidase and inhibition of cellular respiration and consequent histotoxic anoxia. The primary targets of cyanide toxicity in animals are the cardiovascular, respiratory, and central nervous systems. The endocrine system is also a potential target for long-term toxicity, as a function of continued exposure to thiocyanate, which prevents the uptake of iodine in the thyroid and acts as a goitrogenic agent. In a 13-week repeated-dose toxicity study in which cyanide was administered in drinking-water, there were no clinical signs associated with central nervous system effects or histopathological effects in the brain or thyroid of rats or mice. There were slight changes in the reproductive tract in male rats, which, although they apparently would not affect fertility in rats. The examination of neurotoxicity in this study was limited to clinical observation and optical microscopy in autopsy. The few available studies specifically intended to investigate neurotoxicity, while reporting adverse effects at exposure levels of 1.2 mg cyanide/kg body weight per day in rats and 0.48 mg cyanide/kg body weight per day in goats, suffer from weaknesses that preclude their quantitative assessment. In relation to characterization of concentration-response for repeated-dose toxicity for inhalation (relevant principally to the occupational environment), in three separate studies in rats, there were no adverse systemic effects in rats exposed to acetone cyanohydrin, which is rapidly hydrolysed to hydrogen cyanide at physiological pH, at concentrations up to 211 mg/m3 (corresponding to a concentration of 67 mg hydrogen cyanide/m3). The steepness of the dose-effect curve is illustrated by the observation of 30% mortality among rats exposed part of the day to 225 mg acetone cyanohydrin/m3 (71 mg hydrogen cyanide/m3). Adverse effects of exposure to the low concentrations of cyanide that are generally present in the general environment (<1 ug/m3 in ambient air; <10 ug/litre in water) are unlikely. /Cyanide/

Organic nitriles decompose into cyanide ions both in vivo and in vitro. Consequently the primary mechanism of toxicity for organic nitriles is their production of toxic cyanide ions or hydrogen cyanide. Cyanide is an inhibitor of cytochrome c oxidase in the fourth complex of the electron transport chain (found in the membrane of the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells). It complexes with the ferric iron atom in this enzyme. The binding of cyanide to this cytochrome prevents transport of electrons from cytochrome c oxidase to oxygen. As a result, the electron transport chain is disrupted and the cell can no longer aerobically produce ATP for energy. Tissues that mainly depend on aerobic respiration, such as the central nervous system and the heart, are particularly affected. Cyanide is also known produce some of its toxic effects by binding to catalase, glutathione peroxidase, methemoglobin, hydroxocobalamin, phosphatase, tyrosinase, ascorbic acid oxidase, xanthine oxidase, succinic dehydrogenase, and Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase. Cyanide binds to the ferric ion of methemoglobin to form inactive cyanmethemoglobin. (L97)

Sodium cyanide

Reproductive

1 x 10 ^-3 mg/kg-day

No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).

Exposure to high levels of cyanide for a short time harms the brain and heart and can even cause coma, seizures, apnea, cardiac arrest and death. Chronic inhalation of cyanide causes breathing difficulties, chest pain, vomiting, blood changes, headaches, and enlargement of the thyroid gland. Skin contact with cyanide salts can irritate and produce sores. (L96, L97)

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

inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact

Sodium cyanide can affect the body through ingestion, inhalation, skin contact, or eye contact.

Inhalation (L96) ; oral (L96) ; dermal (L96)

Nausea. Dizziness. Drowsiness. Sore throat. Headache. Confusion. Weakness. Shortness of breath. Convulsions. Unconsciousness.

MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. Pain. Further see Inhalation.

Redness. Pain. Further see Inhalation.

Burning sensation. Nausea. Vomiting. Diarrhoea. See Inhalation.

irritation eyes, skin; asphyxia; lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), headache, confusion; nausea, vomiting; increased resp rate; slow gasping respiration; thyroid, blood changes

- Redness, pain, and severe deep burns.

- Contact with the eyes can contribute to whole-body (systemic) toxicity. See Inhalation Exposure.

- Nausea, vomiting (emesis), abdominal pain, and irritation or corrosion of the lining of the esophagus and stomach.

- Whole-body (systemic) toxicity can occur. See Inhalation Exposure.

- Mild to moderate: CNS effects: headache, confusion, anxiety, dizziness, weakness (malaise), and loss of consciousness. Cardiovascular effects: palpitations. Respiratory effects: respiratory tract irritation, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath (dyspnea), and transient increase in rate and depth of breathing (hyperpnea). GI effects: nausea and vomiting (emesis).

- Severe: CNS effects: coma, seizures, and dilated pupils (mydriasis). Cardiovascular effects: shock, abnormal or disordered heart rhythms (dysrhythmias), critically low blood pressure, and cardiac arrest. Respiratory effects: abnormally rapid, followed by abnormally slow respirations; accumulation of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema); and respiratory arrest. Eye effects: dilated pupils, inflammation of the surface of the eye, and temporary blindness.

- Irritation, tissue damage (ulceration), burning sensation, and pain.

- Absorption through the skin can contribute to whole-body (systemic) toxicity. See Inhalation Exposure.

Cyanide poisoning is identified by rapid, deep breathing and shortness of breath, general weakness, giddiness, headaches, vertigo, confusion, convulsions/seizures and eventually loss of consciousness. (L96, L97)

Eyes, skin, cardiovascular system, central nervous system, thyroid, blood

Other Poison - Chemical Asphyxiant

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

IRIS Current

ATSDR Final

Children

Human Health Benchmarks for Pesticides - 2021 Update

LD50: 6440 ug/kg (Oral, Rat) (T14)

LD50: 4300 ug/kg (Intraperitoneal, Rat) (T14)

LD50: 3660 ug/kg (Subcutaneous, Mouse) (T14)

LD50 Rat oral 6440 ug/kg

LD50 Rat ip 4300 ug/kg

LD50 Mouse ip 5881 ug/kg

LD50 Mouse sc 3660 ug/kg

For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for SODIUM CYANIDE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Antidotes to cyanide poisoning include hydroxocobalamin and sodium nitrite, which release the cyanide from the cytochrome system, and rhodanase, which is an enzyme occurring naturally in mammals that combines serum cyanide with thiosulfate, producing comparatively harmless thiocyanate. Oxygen therapy can also be administered. (L97)

FASTED MONGREL DOGS WERE SUBJECTED TO SODIUM THIOSULFATE INFUSION FOLLOWED BY SODIUM CYANIDE ADMIN (1 MG/KG) 30 MIN LATER. A PHARMACOKINETIC MODEL SHOWED THAT SODIUM THIOSULFATE INCREASED THE RATE OF CONVERSION OF CYANIDE TO THIOCYANATE BY A FACTOR OF 36.5; ALSO, IT REDUCED THE APPARENT VOLUME OF DISTRIBUTION OF CYANIDE.

7.80e+01

1.20e+03

9.40e+00

3.90e+01

2.00e+01

2.00e+02

1.00e-03

9.00e-03

Volatile

2.30e+02

3.50e+03

2.80e+01

1.20e+02

6.00e+01

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms.

In bacteria, cyanide production has been observed in Chromobacterium violaceum and certain species of Pseudomonas. /Cyanide/

Material containing cyanide compounds disposed of on land may lead to elevated levels of cyanide in underlying strata and in groundwater. /Cyanides/

Aquatic Fate: The alkali metal salts are very soluble in water, and as a result, they readily dissociate into their respective anions and cations upon release to water. The resulting cyanide ion may then form hydrogen cyanide or react with various metals present in natural water. If the cyanide ion is present in excess, complex metallocyanides may form; however, if metals are prevalent, simple metal cyanides may form.

/IN ELECTROPLATING/ ... SODIUM BATH CONTAINS SODIUM CYANIDE ... ...

... SYMPTOMS OF CHRONIC DISEASE ... REPORTED IN ELECTROPLATERS & SILVER POLISHERS AFTER SEVERAL YEARS OF EXPOSURE. /CYANIDES/

AMONG FUMIGATORS ... CYANIDE POISONING IS RECOGNIZED ... /CYANIDES/

DERMATITIS ... IN WORKERS CHRONICALLY EXPOSED TO CYANIDE SOLN. ELECTROPLATERS SUFFER FROM SUCH IRRITATION. /CYANIDE SOLN/

Cyanide is present in normal healthy human organs at concentrations ranging up to 0.5 mg/kg. /Cyanide/

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number D003; P106, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

Cyanide salts should not be flushed into any drain which may contain or subsequently receive acid waste. ... Cyanide process waste solutions and flushings from spills should be passed through a cyanide waste disposal system. /Cyanide salts/

Sodium cyanide is a poor candidate for incineration.

SMALL AMOUNTS OF AMMONIUM CHLORIDE-BUFFERED, AQUEOUS SODIUM CYANIDE WERE DECONTAMINATED WITH CALCIUM HYPOCHLORITE AT LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO 12 DEGREES, WHILE LARGER AMOUNTS OF CYANIDE WASTE WERE TREATED WITH HYPOCHLORITE FROM ANY SOURCE AT PH 10 TO CONVERT CYANIDE ION TO CYANATE ION.

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. /Sodium cyanide; Sodium cyanide, solid/

Table: Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Sodium cyanide (when spilled in water); Sodium cyanide, solid (when spilled in water) [Table#2052]

Table of Water-Reactive Materials Which Produce Toxic Gases

Table: Materials Which Produce Large Amounts of Toxic-by-Inhalation Gas(es) When Spilled in Water [Table#2053]

/GUIDE 157: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (NON-COMBUSTIBLE/WATER -SENSITIVE)/ First Aid: Move victim to fresh air. Call 911 or emergency medical service. Give artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. Do not use mouth-to-mouth method if victim ingested or inhaled the substance; give artificial respiration with the aid of a pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve or other proper respiratory medical device. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult. Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes. In case of contact with substance, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes. For minor skin contact, avoid spreading material on unaffected skin. Keep victim warm and quiet. Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion or skin contact) to substance may be delayed. Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves. /Sodium cyanide; Sodium cyanide, solid; Sodium cyanide, solution/

/GUIDE 157: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (NON-COMBUSTIBLE/WATER -SENSITIVE)/ Spill or Leak: ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames in immediate area). All equipment used when handling the product must be grounded. Do not touch damaged containers or spilled material unless wearing appropriate protective clothing. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. A vapor suppressing foam may be used to reduce vapors. DO NOT GET WATER INSIDE CONTAINERS. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Small spills: 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. /Sodium cyanide; Sodium cyanide, solid; Sodium cyanide, solution/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for SODIUM CYANIDE (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

1689 157(solid)

3414 157(solution)

UN 3414; Sodium cyanide solution

UN 1689; Sodium cyanide, solid or solution

IMO 6.1; Sodium cyanide, solid; Sodium cyanide solution

49 232 27; Sodium cyanide solution

49 232 28; Sodium cyanide, solid

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.

Airtight. Unbreakable packaging. Put breakable packaging into closed unbreakable container. Do not transport with food and feedstuffs. Marine pollutant.

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: I