Ethyl chloroformate

H225: Highly Flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]

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

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

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

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P264, P270, P271, P280, P284, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P320, P321, P330, P363, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 3.7% (11 of 299) of reports.

H225 (96.3%): Highly Flammable liquid and vapor [Danger Flammable liquids]

H301 (75.3%): Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H302 (25.4%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H314 (96.3%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (58.2%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H330 (96.3%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H400 (13.4%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P284, P301+P316, P301+P317, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P320, P321, P330, P363, P370+P378, P391, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 299 reports by companies from 11 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 11 of 299 reports by companies.

There are 10 notifications provided by 288 of 299 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).

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

H301: Toxic if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

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

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

P210, P233, P240, P241, P242, P243, P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P284, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P303+P361+P353, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P308+P316, P316, P317, P320, P321, P330, P363, P370+P378, P403+P233, P403+P235, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

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

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

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

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

INHALATION: remove to fresh air; use artificial respiration if breathing has stopped; call a doctor; keep victim quiet and administer oxygen if needed.

EYES: flush with water for at least 15 min.; see a doctor.

SKIN: wash liberally with water for at least 15 min., then apply dilute solution of sodium bicarbonate or commercially prepared neutralizer.

INGESTION: do NOT induce vomiting; give large amount of water; get medical attention. (USCG, 1999)

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:

· 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 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 155 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Flammable / Water-Sensitive)]:

Note: Most foams will react with the material and release corrosive/toxic gases. CAUTION: For Acetyl chloride (UN1717), use CO2 or dry chemical only.

SMALL FIRE: CO2, dry chemical, dry sand, alcohol-resistant foam.

LARGE FIRE: Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam. FOR CHLOROSILANES, DO NOT USE WATER; use 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.

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)

Use alcohol-resistant foam, powder, carbon dioxide. NO water. In case of fire: keep cylinder cool by spraying with water. NO direct contact with water.

Use dry chemical, foam, carbon dioxide, or water spray. Water may be ineffective. Use water spray to keep fire exposed containers cool. Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors and toxic decomposition products.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped Use "alcohol" foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible.

Flammable liquid. Vapors are heavier than air & may travel to a source of ignition & flash back. Combustion by-products include hydrogen chloride & other irritants & toxic gases.

· 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.

· FOR CHLOROSILANES, use alcohol-resistant foam to reduce vapors.

· DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or 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.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 155 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Flammable / 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 1182 datasheet.

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

Immediate precautionary measure

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

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

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

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

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: 0.2 km (0.1 mi)

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

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

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

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: gas-tight chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. Ventilation. Remove all ignition sources. Collect leaking and spilled liquid in sealable containers as far as possible. Absorb remaining liquid in dry sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations. Do NOT wash away into sewer.

Releases may require isolation or evacuation. Eliminate all ignition sources. Stop or control the leak, if this can be done without undue risk. Use water spray to cool & disperse vapors & protect personnel. Absorb in noncombustible material for proper disposal.

If material not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames, and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Use water spray to knock-down vapors.

Personnel protection: Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus. Avoid bodily contact with the material. Wear appropriate chemical protective clothing. Do not handle broken packages unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water.

Evacuation: If fire becomes uncontrollable or container is exposed to direct flame consider evacuation of one-third (1/3) mile radius. If material leaking (not on fire) consider evacuation from downwind area based on amount of material spilled, location and weather conditions.

... /CHLOROFORMATES/ SHOULD BE HANDLED SO AS TO PREVENT ALL CONTACT /WITH THE WORKER/. /CHLOROFORMATES/

SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases, contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 155 [Substances - Toxic and/or Corrosive (Flammable / 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. FOR CHLOROSILANES, use alcohol-resistant foam to reduce vapors. DO NOT GET WATER on spilled substance or 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)

Fireproof. Separated from strong oxidants, food and feedstuffs and incompatible materials. See Chemical Dangers. Cool. Dry. Well closed.

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from acids, alkalies, amines, alcohols, oxidizing materials, & water. Normally kept refrigerated.

Chloroformates should be stored in a cool, dry atmosphere. They should be transferred from containers to storage tanks or reactors through a closed system using stainless steel, or glass pump, lines and valves.

· 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].

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

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

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

NR = Not recommended. Absence of an AEGL-1 value does not imply that exposure below the AEGL-2 value is without adverse effects.

AEGLs Status: Final

0.15 [ppm]

1.6 [ppm]

4.8 [ppm]

carcinogen category: 3

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

CAUTION: For Acetyl chloride (UN1717), use CO2 or dry chemical only.

Small Fire

· CO2, dry chemical, dry sand, alcohol-resistant foam.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or alcohol-resistant foam.

· FOR CHLOROSILANES, DO NOT USE WATER; use 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.

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.

ERPG-1: Insufficient data - one hour exposure limit: 1 = mild transient health effects or objectionable odor [AIHA]

ERPG-2: 5 ppm - one hour exposure limit: 2 = impaired ability to take protective action [AIHA]

ERPG-3: 10 ppm - one hour exposure limit: 3 = life threatening health effects [AIHA]

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

Lachrymation. The substance is corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Corrosive on ingestion. Inhalation of the vapour may cause lung oedema.

Air-line mask, self-contained breathing apparatus, or organic and acid canister mask; full protective clothing. (USCG, 1999)

AIR-LINE MASK, SELF CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS, OR ORGANIC AND ACID CANISTER MASK; FULL PROTECTIVE CLOTHING.

NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. NO contact with strong oxidizing agents. Closed system, ventilation, explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Do NOT use compressed air for filling, discharging, or handling.

AVOID ALL CONTACT! IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR!

Use closed system or ventilation.

Protective gloves. Protective clothing.

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

Ethyl chloroformate appears as a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. Flash point 66 °F. Very toxic by inhalation. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Vapors are heavier than air. Prolonged exposure to low concentrations or short exposure to high concentrations may have adverse health effects from inhalation.

Colorless liquid with a pungent odor; [ICSC]

COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH PUNGENT ODOUR.

WATER-WHITE LIQUID

Sharp, like hydrochloric acid

201 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

95 °C @ 760 MM HG

94 °C @760 [mm Hg]

-114 °F (USCG, 1999)

-80.6 °C

61 °F (USCG, 1999)

61 °F (16 °C) (CLOSED CUP)

16 °C c.c.

PRACTICALLY INSOL & GRADUALLY DECOMP IN WATER

MISCIBLE WITH ALC, BENZENE, CHLOROFORM, ETHER

Solubility in water: reaction

1.135 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

1.1403 @ 20 °C/4 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 1.1

1.1442 @ 15°C

3.7 (AIR= 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 3.7

22.4 [mmHg]

22.4 mm Hg @ 25 °C

Vapor pressure, kPa at 20 °C: 5.5

22.4 [mm Hg] @25 °C

932 °F (USCG, 1999)

932 °F (500 °C)

DANGEROUS; WHEN HEATED TO DECOMPOSITION, IT EMITS HIGHLY TOXIC FUMES OF /HYDROGEN CHLORIDE/.

Corrosive

-1.28X10+9 J/kmol

5.8843X10+7 J/kmol @ melting point

27.5 dynes/cm = 0.0275 N/m at 15 °C

INDEX OF REFRACTION: 1.3947 @ 20 °C/D

Decomposes in water and alcohol

Flash point: 27.8 °C (Tag open cup), 18.3 °C (Tag closed cup)

Liquid molar volume = 0.096255 cu m/kmol; Heat of formation = -4.580X10+8 J/kmol; Autoignition temp = 773.15 deg K; Flammability limits = 3.5 to 12.8 vol%

Boiling point

Chemical shift

Dielectric constant

Highly flammable. Emits fumes containing HCl on contact with moist air. Decomposes exothermically but slowly in water.

Acyl Halides, Sulfonyl Halides, and Chloroformates

Highly Flammable

Water-Reactive

Air-Reactive

ETHYL CHLOROFORMATE decomposes slowly in water to form ethanol, HCl, and CO2 Attacks many metals especially in humid atmosphere [Handling Chemicals Safely 1980. p. 476]. May react vigorously or explosively if mixed with diisopropyl ether or other ethers in the presence of trace amounts of metal salts [J. Haz. Mat., 1981, 4, 291].

... WILL REACT WITH WATER OR STEAM TO PRODUCE TOXIC AND CORROSIVE FUMES; CAN REACT VIGOROUSLY WITH OXIDIZING MATERIAL.

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

Burning sensation. Cough. Laboured breathing. Shortness of breath. Sore throat. Symptoms may be delayed.

Skin burns. Blisters. Pain. Redness.

Redness. Pain. Severe deep burns.

Abdominal pain. Burning sensation. Shock or collapse.

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

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

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

LC50 (rat) = 189 ppm/1h

SPECIAL ATTENTION SHOULD BE GIVEN THE EYES & RESP TRACT IN MEDICAL EXAM. /CHLOROFORMATES/

EYE IRRITATION, IRRITATION OF UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT, & SURFACE BURNS HAVE BEEN PRINCIPAL FINDINGS IN EXPOSED HUMANS. ... EYE IRRITATION MAY PERSIST SOME TIME AFTER EXPOSURE CEASES. SKIN SENSITIZATION MAY OCCUR. /CHLOROFORMATES/

... ETHYL ... CHLOROFORMATE CAN PRODUCE DELAYED PULMONARY EDEMA SIMILAR TO THAT PRODUCED BY PHOSGENE.

... LACRIMATORY PROPERTIES ARE WELL-KNOWN. ... NO EFFECTS ON GENERAL HEALTH NOR IN THE LABORATORY FINDINGS (BLOOD STUDIES AND LIVER FUNCTION TESTS) OF PERSONS MANUFACTURING CHLOROFORMATES WERE NOTED. /CHLOROFORMATES/

Its toxic properties resemble those of the methyl homolog in the degree of corrosiveness, irritation, and lacrimatory qualities.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for ETHYL CHLOROFORMATE (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

... CAUSE SEVERE DAMAGE TO THE GUINEA PIG SKIN ... .

Female ICR/Ha Swiss mice, 30-50 per group, were used. The test duration was 18-22 months. Diethylcarbamyl chloride, ethyl chloroformate, and dichloracetyl chloride were tested by repeated skin application, in two-stage carcinogenesis with phorbol myristate acetate as promoter, and by repeated subcutaneous injection. Dimethylcarbamyl chloride was used as a positive control together with control groups. All three compounds showed marginally significant incidences of papillomas and carcinomas when tested as initiators. Ethyl chloroformate and dichloracetyl chloride did not show skin tumorigenicity in the repeated skin application tests. Diethylcarbamyl chloride showed weak carcinogenicity compared to dimethylcarbamyl chloride. Subcutaneous injection resulted in the same pattern of tumorigenicity. Thus, the four acylating agents showed the following decreasing order of carcinogenicity: dimethylcarbamyl chloride > diethylcarbamyl chloride > ethyl chloroformate four compounds hydrolyze rapidly in water, with the following decreasing order of rate of hydrolysis: dichloracetyl chloride > dimethylcarbamyl chlorideC. Their mechanisms of hydrolysis are: dimethylcarbamyl chloride, diethylcarbamyl chloride, and dichloracetyl chloride, SN1; ethyl chloroformate, SN2. There is no clear correlation between rate or mechanism of hydrolysis and carcinogenicity of these acylating agents.

Effects of quercetin on mutagenicity of 32 aromatic amines and their acetamides were studied in Salmonella typhimurium (TA-98) in the presence of a mammalian metabolic activation system (S9 mix). Aniline derivatives, except 2,4-diaminoanisole, were not mutagenic. Addition of quercetin decreased the mutagenicity of 2,4-diaminoanisole and the biphenyl derivatives.

The relationship between the carcinogenic activity of beta-propiolactone, methylmethane sulfonate, ethylchloroformate, dichloroacetyl chloride and propylene oxide which spanned six orders of magnitude was investigated. All products were given by inhalation to male Sprague-Dawley rats were found to induce nasal cancer with the exception of propylene oxide when given to rats for a period of 30 days in concentrations that were inversely proportional to the hydrolysis rates of the corresponding products. The incidence of nasal cancer was high in rats treated with 5 and 10 ppm beta-propiolactone and 50 ppm methylmethane sulfonate. A low incidence of nasal tumors was recorded in animals treated with 20 ppm beta-propiolactone for 5 days and in animals treated with the highest concentrations of dichloroacetyl chloride and ethychloroformate (6 and 2 ppm, respectively). A dose dependent tumorigenic response was recorded for 10 and 5 ppm beta-propiolactone. A strong carcinogenic effect at the level of the nasal epithelium was obtained for animals treated with 5 and 10 ppm beta-propiolactone. Animals treated with propylene oxide did not show any nasal tumors, but two rats had lung adenoma; controls had no such tumors. It was concluded that a relationship exists between the carcinogenic action of selected reactive electrophilic agents and their rate of hydrolysis.

Environmental effects from the substance have not been investigated adequately.

Ethyl chloroformate's use as a solvent in the photographic industry and as chemical intermediate could result in the release of the compound to the environment through evaporation or various waste streams. If released to the atmosphere, it will degrade in the vapor phase by reaction with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals (estimated half-life of about 11 days). Since ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water, atmospheric degradation may occur through dissolution into clouds or through contact with rain or other atmospheric water. If released to water or moist soil, hydrolysis will be the dominate degradation process; the aqueous hydrolysis half-life is 31.5 min at 25 °C. Results of a single biodegradation study (using the Japanese MITI protocol) have classified ethyl chloroformate as biodegradable but this is probably for the hydrolysis product. If released to dry surfaces, ethyl chloroformate will evaporate into the atmosphere. (SRC)

Ethyl chloroformate's use as a solvent in the photographic industry and as chemical intermediate(1) could result in the release of the compound to the environment through evaporation or various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half-life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(1); therefore, aqueous hydrolysis will be the dominate fate process in moist soils(SRC). Ethyl chloroformate has a relatively high vapor pressure (22.4 mm Hg at 25 dec C(2)) which suggests that evaporation from dry surfaces can occur(SRC). Results of a single biodegradation study (using the Japanese MITI protocol) have classified ethyl chloroformate as biodegradable(3) but this is probably the hydrolysis product(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half-life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(1); therefore, aqueous hydrolysis will be the dominate fate process in the aquatic environment(SRC). Aqueous volatilization, bioconcentration and adsorption to sediment are not expected to be important fate processes due to ethyl chloroformate's rapid hydrolysis(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: Based upon a vapor pressure of 22.4 mm Hg at 25 °C(1), ethyl chloroformate is expected to exist primarily in the vapor phase in the ambient atmosphere(2,SRC). It will degrade in the ambient atmosphere by reaction with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals with an estimated half-life of about 11 day(3,SRC). Since ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water, atmospheric degradation may occur through dissolution into clouds or through contact with rain or other atmospheric water(SRC).

Using the Japanese MITI protocol (4 week incubation period with activated sludge inoculum), ethyl chloroformate was found to be biodegradable with a theoretical BOD of 81-86%(1) but this is probably the hydrolysis product(SRC).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of ethyl chloroformate with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated to be 1.44X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C which corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 11 day at an atmospheric concn of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1,SRC). The rate constant for the aqueous hydrolysis of ethyl chloroformate in water at 25 °C has been experimentally determined to be 3.67X10-4/sec which corresponds to a half life of 31.5 min(2); corresponding hydrolysis half-lives at 5.1, 14.8 and 35.3 °C are 265, 90 and 11.6 min, respectively(2,SRC).

Ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half-life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(1); therefore, bioconcentration in aquatic organisms will not be an important process(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indexes, the Koc for ethyl chloroformate can be estimated to be approximately 10(1,SRC). According to a suggested classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that ethyl chloroformate has high mobility in soil(SRC). However, ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half- life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(3); therefore, leaching in soil is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for ethyl chloroformate can be estimated to be 3.1X10-3 atm-cu m/mole using a structure estimation method(1,SRC); this value of Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from water is potentially an important fate process(2). However, ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half-life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(3); therefore, volatilization from water is not expected to be important(SRC).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 2,247 workers are potentially exposed to ethyl chloroformate in the USA(1).

Environmental effects from the substance have not been investigated adequately.

Ethyl chloroformate's use as a solvent in the photographic industry and as chemical intermediate could result in the release of the compound to the environment through evaporation or various waste streams. If released to the atmosphere, it will degrade in the vapor phase by reaction with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals (estimated half-life of about 11 days). Since ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water, atmospheric degradation may occur through dissolution into clouds or through contact with rain or other atmospheric water. If released to water or moist soil, hydrolysis will be the dominate degradation process; the aqueous hydrolysis half-life is 31.5 min at 25 °C. Results of a single biodegradation study (using the Japanese MITI protocol) have classified ethyl chloroformate as biodegradable but this is probably for the hydrolysis product. If released to dry surfaces, ethyl chloroformate will evaporate into the atmosphere. (SRC)

Ethyl chloroformate's use as a solvent in the photographic industry and as chemical intermediate(1) could result in the release of the compound to the environment through evaporation or various waste streams(SRC).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half-life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(1); therefore, aqueous hydrolysis will be the dominate fate process in moist soils(SRC). Ethyl chloroformate has a relatively high vapor pressure (22.4 mm Hg at 25 dec C(2)) which suggests that evaporation from dry surfaces can occur(SRC). Results of a single biodegradation study (using the Japanese MITI protocol) have classified ethyl chloroformate as biodegradable(3) but this is probably the hydrolysis product(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half-life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(1); therefore, aqueous hydrolysis will be the dominate fate process in the aquatic environment(SRC). Aqueous volatilization, bioconcentration and adsorption to sediment are not expected to be important fate processes due to ethyl chloroformate's rapid hydrolysis(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: Based upon a vapor pressure of 22.4 mm Hg at 25 °C(1), ethyl chloroformate is expected to exist primarily in the vapor phase in the ambient atmosphere(2,SRC). It will degrade in the ambient atmosphere by reaction with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals with an estimated half-life of about 11 day(3,SRC). Since ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water, atmospheric degradation may occur through dissolution into clouds or through contact with rain or other atmospheric water(SRC).

Using the Japanese MITI protocol (4 week incubation period with activated sludge inoculum), ethyl chloroformate was found to be biodegradable with a theoretical BOD of 81-86%(1) but this is probably the hydrolysis product(SRC).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of ethyl chloroformate with photochemically produced hydroxyl radicals has been estimated to be 1.44X10-12 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C which corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 11 day at an atmospheric concn of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(1,SRC). The rate constant for the aqueous hydrolysis of ethyl chloroformate in water at 25 °C has been experimentally determined to be 3.67X10-4/sec which corresponds to a half life of 31.5 min(2); corresponding hydrolysis half-lives at 5.1, 14.8 and 35.3 °C are 265, 90 and 11.6 min, respectively(2,SRC).

Ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half-life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(1); therefore, bioconcentration in aquatic organisms will not be an important process(SRC).

Using a structure estimation method based on molecular connectivity indexes, the Koc for ethyl chloroformate can be estimated to be approximately 10(1,SRC). According to a suggested classification scheme(2), this estimated Koc value suggests that ethyl chloroformate has high mobility in soil(SRC). However, ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half- life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(3); therefore, leaching in soil is not expected to be an important fate process(SRC).

The Henry's Law constant for ethyl chloroformate can be estimated to be 3.1X10-3 atm-cu m/mole using a structure estimation method(1,SRC); this value of Henry's Law constant indicates that volatilization from water is potentially an important fate process(2). However, ethyl chloroformate hydrolyzes readily in water (half-life of 31.5 min at 25 °C)(3); therefore, volatilization from water is not expected to be important(SRC).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 2,247 workers are potentially exposed to ethyl chloroformate in the USA(1).

Releases may require isolation or evacuation. Eliminate all ignition sources. Stop or control the leak, if this can be done without undue risk. Use water spray to cool & disperse vapors & protect personnel. Absorb in noncombustible material for proper disposal.

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

Table: Table of Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Ethyl chloroformate [Table#1224]

/GUIDE 155: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (FLAMMABLE/WATER-SENSITIVE)/ Fire or Explosion: HIGHLY FLAMMABLE: Will be easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors form explosive mixtures with air: indoors, outdoors and sewers explosion hazards. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Those substances designated with a "P" may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Substance will react with water (some violently) releasing flammable, toxic or corrosive gases and runoff. Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated or if contaminated with water.

/GUIDE 155: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (FLAMMABLE/WATER-SENSITIVE)/ Health: TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or contact (skin, eyes) with vapors, dusts or substance may cause severe injury, burns, or death. ... Reaction with water or moist air will release toxic, corrosive or flammable gases. Reaction with water may generate much heat which will increase the concentration of fumes in the air. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may be corrosive and/or toxic and cause pollution.

/GUIDE 155: SUBSTANCES - TOXIC AND/OR CORROSIVE (FLAMMABLE/WATER-SENSITIVE)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number ... . 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. Ventilate enclosed areas.

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for ETHYL CHLOROFORMATE (9 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

IMO 3.2; Ethyl chloroformate

UN 1182; Ethyl chloroformate

IMO 6.1; Ethyl chloroformate

49 333 27; Ethyl chloroformate

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

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

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

Poison Inhalation Hazard Flammable Liquid Corrosive

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

Symbol: F, T+; R: 11-22-26-34; S: (1/2)-9-16-26-28-33-36/37/39-45

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Subsidiary Risks: 3 and 8; UN Pack Group: I