Cyanogen Chloride

H280 (65.1%): Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

H300+H310+H330 (15.4%): Fatal if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, oral; acute toxicity, dermal; acute toxicity, inhalation]

H300 (34.9%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H310 (34.9%): Fatal in contact with skin [Danger Acute toxicity, dermal]

H314 (72.3%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (14.4%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H330 (99.5%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H400 (20.5%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

P260, P262, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P284, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P352, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P320, P321, P330, P361+P364, P363, P391, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 195 reports by companies from 8 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.

H280: Contains gas under pressure; may explode if heated [Warning Gases under pressure]

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

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

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

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

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

P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P284, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P319, P320, P321, P363, P403+P233, P405, P410+P403, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H371: May cause damage to organs [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]

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

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

ON FROSTBITE: rinse with plenty of water, do NOT remove clothes. Refer for medical attention .

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

For information on chemical warfare blood agents see the ERG Criminal or Terrorist Use of CBR Agents. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Cyanogen chloride:

Eye: IRRIGATE IMMEDIATELY - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: WATER WASH IMMEDIATELY (LIQUID) - If this chemical in liquid form contacts the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin with water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, immediately remove the clothing and wash the skin with water. If symptoms occur after washing, get medical attention immediately.

Breathing: RESPIRATORY SUPPORT - If a person breathes large amounts of this chemical, move the exposed person to fresh air at once. If breathing has stopped, perform artificial respiration. Keep the affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention as soon as possible.

Swallow: MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY (LIQUID) - If this chemical in liquid form has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately. (NIOSH, 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.

· 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:

· In case of contact with liquefied gas, only medical personnel should attempt thawing frosted parts.

· In case of skin contact with hydrogen fluoride, anhydrous (UN1052), if calcium gluconate gel is available, rinse 5 minutes, then apply gel. Otherwise, continue rinsing until medical treatment is available.

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

(General first aid procedures)

Eye: Irrigate immediately - If this chemical contacts the eyes, immediately wash (irrigate) the eyes with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting the lower and upper lids. Get medical attention immediately.

Skin: Water wash immediately (liquid)

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately (liquid)

For information on chemical warfare blood agents see the ERG Criminal or Terrorist Use of CBR Agents. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 125 [Gases - Toxic and/or Corrosive]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical or CO2.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or regular foam. If it can be done safely, move undamaged containers away from the area around the fire. Do not get water inside containers. Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur. 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)

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

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

- Cyanogen chloride (CK) may burn, but it does not ignite readily.

- For small fires, use dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

- For large fires, use water spray, fog, or regular foam. Move containers from the fire area if it is possible to do so without risk to personnel. Do not get water inside containers. Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

- For fire involving tanks, fight the fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out. Do not direct water at the source of the leak or at safety devices; icing may occur. 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 may cause pollution.

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

For small fires, use dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

For large fires, use water spray, fog, or regular foam. Move containers from the fire area if it is possible to do so without risk to personnel. Do not get water inside containers. Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

For fire involving tanks, fight the fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after the fire is out. Do not direct water at the source of the leak or at safety devices; icing may occur. 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 may cause pollution.

For more Fire Fighting Procedures (Complete) data for CYANOGEN CHLORIDE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

It may only be shipped in cylinders. Prolonged exposure of the cylinder to fire or heat may cause violent rupturing and rocketing. /Cyanogen chloride, inhibited/

· 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.

· Many gases are heavier than air and will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.).

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

· Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

· If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid.

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

· Do not direct water at spill or source of leak.

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

· Isolate area until gas has dispersed.

For initial isolation and protective action distances for chemical warfare blood agents see the Chemical Warfare Agents table in the ERG Criminal or Terrorist Use of CBR Agents. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 125 [Gases - Toxic and/or Corrosive]:

IMMEDIATE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE: Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

SPILL: See ERG Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances on the UN/NA 1589 datasheet.

FIRE: If tank, rail tank car or highway tank is involved in a fire, ISOLATE for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. (ERG, 2024)

Immediate precautionary measure

· Isolate spill or leak area for at least 100 meters (330 feet) in all directions.

· 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 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions.

Small spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 300 m (1000 ft)

Large spill:

- ISOLATE in all directions: 1000 m (3000 ft)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 1.9 km (1.2 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 6.6 km (4.1 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 11.0+ km (7.0+ mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 11.0+ km (7.0+ mi)

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Ventilation. NEVER direct water jet on liquid. Remove vapour cloud with fine water spray. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Personal protection: chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus.

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. /Cyanogen chloride, inhibited/

Environmental considerations - Water spill: Add dilute caustic soda. Add calcium hypochlorite. Adjust pH to neutral (pH 7). /Cyanogen chloride, inhibited/

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. /Cyanogen chloride, inhibited/

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Ventilation. NEVER direct water jet on liquid. Remove vapor cloud with fine water spray. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus.

Wear nitrile rubber gloves, eye protection, laboratory coat and self-contained breathing apparatus if necessary. Cover the spill with a 1:1:1 mixture by weight of sodium carbonate or calcium carbonate, clay cat litter (bentonite) and sand. Transfer to a beaker of water in the fume hood. Slowly add to an excess of an alkaline solution of calcium hypochlorite or household bleach. After 24 hours, wash into drain with at least 50 times its volume of water. Discard solid residue with normal refuse.

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

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

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

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number P033, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

For information on chemical warfare blood agents see the ERG Criminal or Terrorist Use of CBR Agents. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 125 [Gases - Toxic and/or Corrosive]:

Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk. If possible, turn leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Do not direct water at spill or source of leak. Use water spray to reduce vapors or divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled material. Isolate area until gas has dispersed. (ERG, 2024)

Fireproof if in building. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Cool. Store in an area without drain or sewer access.

Fireproof if in building. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing. Cool. ... A harmful concentration of this gas in the air will be reached very quickly on loss of containment.

In most cases, cyanogen chloride is used in the gas phase immediately after preparation. Relatively small amounts are condensed and stored in gas containers as liquids. Steel cylinders, which must meet specific requirements in each country, can be used for shipment. The condensed and bottled Cyanogen chloride must be very pure; moreover, it must be mixed with a stabilizing agent (generally sodium pyrophosphate) to inhibit exothermic polymerization caused by impurities.

· 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].

The compound is currently at the Holding Status AEGLs which have been reviewed by the NAC/AEGL Committee and are on hold due to insufficient data to develop AEGL values.

AEGLs Status: Holding

0.0045 [ppm]

0.050 [ppm]

4.0 [ppm]

0.3 ppm (0.6 mg/m³)

C 0.3 ppm (0.6 mg/m3)

none See Appendix G

25.0 [mg/m3], as CN

See: IDLH INDEX

0.75 [mg/m3]

Ceiling Limit: 0.3 ppm.

0.3 ppm as STEL

0.3 ppm [2013]

Small Fire

· Dry chemical or CO2.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or regular foam.

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

· Do not get water inside containers.

· Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists.

Fire Involving Tanks

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

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

· Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may occur.

· 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.

ERPG-1: Not appropriate - one hour exposure limit: 1 = mild transient health effects or objectionable odor [AIHA]

ERPG-2: 0.4 ppm - one hour exposure limit: 2 = impaired ability to take protective action [AIHA]

ERPG-3: 4 ppm - one hour exposure limit: 3 = life threatening health effects [AIHA]

Emergency Response Planning Guidlines (ERPGs) for cyanogen chloride:[Table#2420]

A harmful concentration of this gas in the air will be reached very quickly on loss of containment.

Lachrymation. The substance is severely irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the cellular respiration. This may result in convulsions and unconsciousness. Exposure could cause death. Medical observation is indicated. Inhalation may cause lung oedema. The effects may be delayed. Rapid evaporation of the liquid may cause frostbite.

Information is unavailable about the carcinogenicity, developmental toxicity, or reproductive toxicity from chronic or repeated exposure to cyanogen chloride (CK). Effects of chronic or repeated exposure to cyanogen chloride (CK) are similar to those of cyanide and other cyanide compounds. Chronically exposed workers may complain of headache, eye irritation, easy fatigue, chest discomfort, palpitations, loss of appetite (anorexia), and nosebleeds (epistaxis). Exposure to small amounts of cyanide compounds over long periods of time is reported to cause loss of appetite, headache, weakness, nausea, dizziness, and symptoms of irritation of the upper respiratory tract and eyes.

For information on chemical warfare blood agents see the ERG Criminal or Terrorist Use of CBR Agents. (ERG, 2024)

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Cyanogen chloride:

Cyanogen chloride, stabilized appears as a chemical warfare blood agent. It is a colorless gas or liquid with a strong acrid/pungent odor. Shipped as a liquid confined under its own vapor pressure. A highly toxic lachrymator. Vapor is heavier than air. Prolonged exposure of the container to fire or intense heat may cause violent rupturing and rocketing.

Colorless gas or liquid (below 55 degrees F) with an irritating odor; Note: Shipped as a liquefied gas. A solid below 20 degrees F. Forms cyanide in the body; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS COMPRESSED LIQUEFIED GAS WITH PUNGENT ODOUR.

Colorless gas or liquid (below 55 °F) with an irritating odor.

Colorless gas or liquid (below 55 °F) with an irritating odor. [Note: Shipped as a liquefied gas. A solid below 20 °F. Forms cyanide in the body.]

Colorless, liquid below 55°F (12.8°C) or gas above 55°F (12.8°C).

Colorless volatile liquid or gas

Colorless gas or liquid (below 55 °F) ...[NOTE: Shipped as a liquified gas. A solid below 20 °F.]

Acrid, choking odor

Lachrimating and irritating odor

Strong acid/pungent odor

55.6 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

13.1 °C @760 [mm Hg]

20 °F (USCG, 1999)

-6.55 °C

Not Applicable. Not flammable. (USCG, 1999)

7 % (NIOSH, 2024)

Soluble in water, ethanol, ethyl ether

Soluble in oxygenated solvents

Soluble in water at 68 °F

In water, 27.5 mg/L at 25 °C

In water, 6X10+4 mg/L at 0 C

Solubility in water: soluble

1.222 at 32 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

1.186 at 20 °C/4 °C

Density: 1.24 g/cu cm at 0 °C; 1.19 g/cu cm at 15 °C; Enthalpy of Fusion: 11.39 kJ/mol

Density/Specific gravity: 1.128 at 4 °C/4 °C

Liquid density 10.0 lb/gal. Shipped as a liquid confined under its own vapor pressure

1.22 (liquid at 32 °F)

1.186 @25 °C

1.22 (Liquid at 32 °F)

2.16(relative gas density)

2.1 (USCG, 1999) - Heavier than air; will sink (Relative to Air)

1.98 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 2.16

704.36 mmHg at 50 °F (USCG, 1999)

VP: 760 mm Hg at 13 °C

1.23X10+3 mm Hg at 25 C

Vapor pressure, kPa at 21.1 °C: 1987

1010 mmHg

Soluble in water. Very slow reaction with water to form hydrogen cyanide.

Cyanides, Inorganic

Polymerizable Compounds

Polymerizable

CYANOGEN CHLORIDE may trimerize violently to form cyanuric chloride, catalyzed by hydrogen chloride or ammonium chloride. Reacts exothermically with alkenes and alkynes. Benzene and cyanogen halides yield HCl as a byproduct (Hagedorn, F. H. Gelbke, and Federal Republic of Germany. 2002. Nitriles. In Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry. Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.).

Contact with alcohols, acids, acid salts, amines, strong alkalis, olefins, strong oxidizers may cause fire and explosion.

Heat causes decomposition producing toxic and corrosive fumes of hydrogen cyanide, hydrochloric acid, nitrogen oxides.

Attacks copper, brass, and bronze in the presence of moisture.

Water, acids, alkalis, ammonia, alcohols [Note: Can react very slowly with water to form hydrogen cyanide. May be stabilized to prevent polymerization].

Crude cyanogen chloride (endothermic, prepared from hydrogen cyanide and chlorine) may trimerise violently to cyanuric chloride, catalysed by traces of hydrogen chloride or ammonium chloride.

Water, acids, alkalis, ammonia, alcohols [Note: Can react very slowly with water to form hydrogen cyanide. May be stabilized to prevent polymerization.]

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)

Chlorine cyanide

Endocrine

5 x 10 ^-2 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.

inhalation, skin absorption (liquid), ingestion (liquid), skin and/or eye contact (liquid)

Cyanogen chloride (CK) can affect the body by inhalation, ingestion, skin contact, or eye contact.

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

Sore throat. Drowsiness. Confusion. Nausea. Vomiting. Cough. Unconsciousness. Symptoms may be delayed.

ON CONTACT WITH LIQUID: FROSTBITE. MAY BE ABSORBED! Redness. Pain.

ON CONTACT WITH LIQUID: FROSTBITE. Redness. Pain.

irritation eyes, upper respiratory system; cough, delayed pulmonary edema; lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting; irreg heartbeat; irritation skin (liquid)

- Intense irritation, severe spasmodic blinking (blepharospasm), and tear production (lacrimation).

- Contact with only the eyes has not been known to result in whole-body (systemic) toxicity, although this is a possibility.

- See Inhalation Exposure.

- Possible bitter, acrid burning taste, followed by constriction or numbness of the throat, salivation, nausea, and vomiting (emesis).

- Whole-body (systemic) toxicity can occur.

- 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 the 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.

- Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury, and/or frostbite.

- Contact with the skin can contribute to whole-body (systemic) toxicity.

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, respiratory system, central nervous system, cardiovascular system

Other Poison - Chemical Asphyxiant

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

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

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

IRIS Current

HEAST Current

Severe irritant eye 100 mg/cu m (2 min)

LC50 Guinea pig inhal 5500 mg/cu m (2 min)

LC50 Rabbit inhal 6 g/cu m (7 min)

LD50 Cat oral 6 mg/kg

LC50 Cat inhal 6 g/cu m (1 min)

For more Non-Human Toxicity Values (Complete) data for CYANOGEN CHLORIDE (8 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)

/PREHOSPITAL/ Triage procedures and medical management guidelines. (See ATSDR Toxicology Profile on cyanide and ATSDR medical management guidelines on hydrogen cyanide.) If inhaled: Fresh air, rest. Half-upright position. Artificial respiration if indicated. Seek medical attention immediately. If skin contact: Frostbite: rinse with plenty of water, do NOT remove clothes. Seek medical attention immediately. If eye contact: First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes. Seek medical attention immediately.

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea) age 24 hr; Conditions: static bioassay; Concentration: 0.04 mg/L for 24 hr

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea) age 24 hr; Conditions: static bioassay; Concentration: 0.029 mg/L for 48 hr

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea) age 5 day; Conditions: static bioassay; Concentration: 0.086 mg/L for 24 hr

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea) age 5 day; Conditions: static bioassay; Concentration: 0.065 mg/L for 48 hr

3.90e+03

5.80e+04

1.00e+03

2.00e+02

5.00e-02

Volatile

1.20e+04

1.80e+05

3.00e+03

The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms.

Cyanogen chloride's production and use as in organic synthesis may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams; its use as a warning agent in fumigant gases, as a by-product of the chlorination of raw water, and as a chemical warfare agent will result in its direct release to the environment. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 1,220 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates cyanogen chloride will exist solely as a gas in the atmosphere. Cyanogen chloride does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. The environmental fate of cyanogen chloride is largely site specific in that the biotic and abiotic characteristics of soil and water greatly influence the ability of this compound to persist, absorb, degrade, dissociate, and complex. However, cyanogen chloride is extremely volatile and hydrolyzes rapidly in water. Occupational exposure to cyanogen chloride may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where cyanogen chloride is produced or used. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to cyanogen chloride via ingestion of drinking water. Exposure may occur to individuals coming in contact with the compound in regions where it is used as a chemical warfare agent. (SRC)

Cyanogen chloride's production and use as in organic synthesis(1) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC); its use as a warning agent in fumigant gases(1), as a by-product of the chlorination of raw water(2-4), and as a chemical warfare agent(5) will result in its direct release to the environment(SRC).

The environmental fate of cyanogen chloride is largely site specific in that the biotic and abiotic characteristics of soil and water greatly influence the ability of this compound to persist, absorb, degrade, dissociate, and complex(1). However, because of its volatility and rapid rate of hydrolysis, cyanogen chloride is considered a nonpersistent agent(2,3).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Data on cyanogen chloride fate in soil were not available; however, it is highly volatile and hydrolyzes rapidly in the environment(1).

AQUATIC FATE: Cyanogen chloride is extremely volatile from water surfaces and will hydrolyze rapidly(1) with half-lives ranging from 1 minute 45 seconds to 10 hours at 5 °C in ambient waters(2).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), cyanogen chloride, which has a vapor pressure of 1.22X10+3 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a gas in the ambient atmosphere. Cyanogen chloride does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(3) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

Cyanogen chloride is extremely volatile and hydrolyzes rapidly(1), suggesting that biodegradation will not be an important environmental fate process(SRC).

Cyanogen chloride hydrolyzes to CNO(-) at alkaline pH(1). Alkaline chlorination of water containing cyanide produces cyanogen chloride(1). Cyanogen chloride is unstable in raw surface waters; half-lives ranging from 1 minute 45 seconds to 10 hours at 5 °C in ambient waters(2) and 5.25 hrs at pH 8 at 20 °C(3) have been reported. The compound hydrolyzes rapidly under alkaline conditions to hydrochloric acid and cyanic acid(3). Cyanogen chloride does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm(4) and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight(SRC).

Cyanogen chloride is extremely volatile and hydrolyzes rapidly(1), suggesting that bioconcentration will not be an important environmental fate process(SRC).

The high volatility and rapid hydrolysis of cyanogen chloride(1) would suggest that adsorption to soil and sediment is not an important environmental fate process(SRC).

Cyanogen chloride will volatilize rapidly from water surfaces(1); it is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 1,220 mm Hg(3).

DRINKING WATER: Cyanogen chloride is formed in raw water during chlorination treatment(1); amino acids, most notably glycine, have been cited as potential precursors of the disinfection byproduct cyanogen chloride in chlorinated drinking water(2). Huron River water collected at the Ann Arbor, MI water treatment plant intake line on 6/1/2004 and 6/29/2004 had a glycine content of 1.5 and 1.2 ug/L, respectively. Following chlorination doses of 2.3 and 2.1 mg/L, the estimated yield of cyanogen chloride was 45 and 42% , respectively(2). In a US National Organics Reconnaissance Survey initiated in 1974, cyanogen chloride occurred in 8 of 10 city samples(3). The compound has been identified as a typical volatile component in Cincinnati, OH drinking water(4).

RURAL/REMOTE: Cyanogen chloride was detected in the atmosphere of sugar beet fields near Kiev in the Soviet Union as a result of investigations following three poisoning cases; the concentrations were 0.6 mg/cu m, 0.46 mg/cu m, and 0.25 mg/cu m. The origin of the chemical was uncertain(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 1,391 workers (none of these are female) are potentially exposed to cyanogen chloride in the US(1). Occupational exposure to cyanogen chloride may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where cyanogen chloride is produced or used(SRC). Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to cyanogen chloride via ingestion of drinking water. Exposure may occur to individuals coming in contact with the compound in regions where it is used as a chemical warfare agent(SRC).

SRP: Wastewater from contaminant suppression, cleaning of protective clothing/equipment, or contaminated sites should be contained and evaluated for subject chemical or decomposition product concentrations. Concentrations shall be lower than applicable environmental discharge or disposal criteria. Alternatively, pretreatment and/or discharge to a permitted wastewater treatment facility is acceptable only after review by the governing authority and assurance that "pass through" violations will not occur. Due consideration shall be given to remediation worker exposure (inhalation, dermal and ingestion) as well as fate during treatment, transfer and disposal. If it is not practicable to manage the chemical in this fashion, it must be evaluated in accordance with EPA 40 CFR Part 261, specifically Subpart B, in order to determine the appropriate local, state and federal requirements for disposal.

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

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

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number P033, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

For more Disposal Methods (Complete) data for CYANOGEN CHLORIDE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

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. /Cyanogen chloride, stabilized/

Table: Table of Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Cyanogen chloride, stabilized [Table#2417]

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. /CK (when used as a weapon)/

Table: Table of Isolation and Protective Action Distances for CK (when used as a weapon) [Table#2418]

/GUIDE 125: GASES - CORROSIVE/ Health: TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled, ingested or absorbed through skin. Vapors are extremely irritating and corrosive. Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury and/or frostbite. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution. /Cyanogen chloride, stabilized/

/GUIDE 125: GASES - CORROSIVE/ Fire or Explosion: Some may burn, but none ignite readily. Vapors from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground. Some of these materials may react violently with water. Cylinders exposed to fire may vent and release toxic and/or corrosive gas through pressure relief devices. Containers may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may rocket. /Cyanogen chloride, stabilized/

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

1589 125(inhibited)

UN 1589; Cyanogen chloride, stabilized

IMO 2.3; Cyanogen chloride, stabilized

49 205 06; Cyanogen chloride (containing less than 0.9% water)

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.

Cyanogen chloride must be labeled: "Poison Gas, Corrosive." Quantity limitations: Passener aircraf/rail: Forbidden; Cargo aircraft only: Forbidden. It falls in DOT Hazard Class 2.3 and Packing Group I.

Poison Gas Corrosive

Marine pollutant.

UN Hazard Class: 2.3; UN Subsidiary Risks: 8