Sulfur trioxide

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 14.9% (75 of 503) of reports.

H314 (85.1%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H318 (49.3%): Causes serious eye damage [Danger Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H330 (16.1%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H335 (79.9%): May cause respiratory irritation [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Respiratory tract irritation]

H351 (11.3%): Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

H411 (11.3%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P271, P273, P280, P284, P301+P330+P331, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P317, P318, P319, P320, P321, P363, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 503 reports by companies from 22 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 75 of 503 reports by companies.

There are 20 notifications provided by 428 of 503 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.

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

Wear protective gloves when administering first aid. First rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, then remove contaminated clothes and rinse again. Refer immediately for medical attention .

Rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible). Refer immediately for medical attention.

Rinse mouth. Give nothing to drink. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer immediately for medical attention.

Warning: Sulfur trioxide is extremely corrosive. Caution is advised.

Signs and Symptoms of Sulfur Trioxide Exposure: Signs and symptoms of acute ingestion of sulfur trioxide may be severe and include salivation, intense thirst, difficulty in swallowing, chills, pain, and shock. Oral, esophageal, and stomach burns are common. Vomitus generally has a coffee-ground appearance. The potential for circulatory collapse is high following ingestion of sulfur trioxide. Acute inhalation exposure of sulfur trioxide may result in sneezing, hoarseness, coughing, choking, laryngitis, and respiratory tract irritation. Bleeding of nose and gums, ulceration of the nasal and oral mucosa, bronchitis, pneumonia, dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and pulmonary edema and respiratory failure may also occur. Eye exposure to sulfur trioxide may result in irritation, pain, swelling, corneal erosion, and blindness. Dermal exposure may result in dermatitis (red, inflamed skin), severe burns, and pain.

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

Inhalation Exposure:

1. Move victims to fresh air. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to sulfur trioxide.

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

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

4. Transport to a health care facility.

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

1. Remove victims from exposure. Emergency personnel should avoid self-exposure to sulfur trioxide.

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

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

5. Wash exposed skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.

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

7. Transport to a health care facility.

Ingestion Exposure:

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

2. DO NOT induce vomiting or attempt to neutralize!

3. Rinse mouth with large amounts of water. Inform victims not to swallow this water.

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

5. Activated charcoal is of no value.

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

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

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

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

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

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

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

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

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

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

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

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

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

Keep unnecessary people away; isolate hazard area and deny entry. Stay upwind; keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces before entering them. Wear positive pressure breathing apparatus and special protective clothing.

Do not get water inside container. Small fires: dry chemical or carbon dioxide. Large fires: flood fire area with water from a distance. Do not get solid stream of water on spilled material. Move container from fire area if you can do so without risk. Spray cooling water on containers that are exposed to flames until well after fire is out. (EPA, 1998)

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

If material involved in fire: Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire ... Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible.

NO hydrous agents. NO water. In case of fire in the surroundings: use appropriate extinguishing media ... Cool drums, etc., by spraying with water but avoid contact of the substance with water.

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

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

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

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

· Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

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

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

Small Spill

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

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

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

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

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

SPILL: See ERG Table 1 - Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances on the UN/NA 1829 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: 60 m (200 ft)

Large spill:

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

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 0.4 km (0.2 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 1.0 km (0.6 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during DAY time: 2.9 km (1.8 mi)

- PROTECT people from downwind during NIGHT time: 6.3 km (4.0 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. Do NOT wash away into sewer. Ventilation. Collect leaking liquid in covered containers. Absorb remaining liquid in dry sand or inert absorbent. Do NOT absorb in saw-dust or other combustible absorbents. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations.

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.

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Do NOT absorb in saw-dust or other combustible absorbents. Absorb remaining liquid in dry sand or inert absorbent and remove to safe place. Ventilation. NEVER direct water jet on liquid. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment.

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

If material not involved in fire: Keep material out of water sources and sewers. Build dikes to contain flow as necessary. Use water spray to knock down vapors. Neutralize spilled material with crushed limestone, soda ash, or lime.

Personnel protection: Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. Avoid bodily contact with the material. 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.

SRP: Contaminated protective clothing should be segregated in such a manner so that there is no direct personal contact by personnel who handle, dispose, or clean the clothing. Quality assurance to ascertain the completeness of the cleaning procedures should be implemented before the decontaminated protective clothing is returned for reuse by the workers. Contaminated clothing should not be taken home at end of shift, but should remain at employee's place of work for cleaning.

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 137 [Substances - Water-Reactive - Corrosive]:

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

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

Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper storage conditions. Dry. Well closed. Store only in original packaging. Separated from food and feedstuffs and incompatible materials. See Chemical Dangers. Store only if stabilized.

/When/ stabilized, must be kept warm to liquefy, but under 40 °C.

· 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: 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)

0.20 mg/m3

8.7 mg/m3

270 mg/m3

200 mg/m3

160 mg/m3

110 mg/m3

93 mg/m3

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

AEGLs Status: Interim

0.20 [mg/m3]

8.7 [mg/m3]

160 [mg/m3]

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.2 mg/cu m (thoracic fraction). /Sulfuric Acid/

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

A2; Suspected human carcinogen. /Classification refers to sulfuric acid contained in strong inorganic acid mists.)/

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

Small Fire

· Dry chemical or CO2.

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

Large Fire

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

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

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

· Do not get water inside containers.

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

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

ERPG-1: 2 mg/m3 - one hour exposure limit: 1 = mild transient health effects or objectionable odor [AIHA]

ERPG-2: 10 mg/m3 - one hour exposure limit: 2 = impaired ability to take protective action [AIHA]

ERPG-3: 120 mg/m3 - one hour exposure limit: 3 = life threatening health effects [AIHA]

Emergency Response Planning Guidlines (ERPGs) for sulfur trioxide: [Table#5886]

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

The substance is very corrosive to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. Corrosive on ingestion. Exposure could cause asphyxiation due to swelling in the throat. Inhalation of high concentrations may cause lung oedema, but only after initial corrosive effects on the eyes and the upper respiratory tract have become manifest. Inhalation may cause asthma-like reactions (RADS). Medical observation is indicated.

Repeated or prolonged inhalation of the aerosol may cause effects on the lungs. Risk of tooth erosion upon repeated or prolongated exposure to an aerosol of this substance. Mists of this strong inorganic acid are carcinogenic to humans.

Sulfur trioxide, is a colorless to white crystalline solid which will fume in air. Often shipped with inhibitor to prevent polymerization. It reacts violently with water to form sulfuric acid with the release of heat. It is corrosive to metals and tissue. It causes eye and skin burns. Ingestion causes severe burns of mouth esophagus and stomach. The vapor is very toxic by inhalation. It is a fire risk when in contact with organic materials such as wood, cotton, fiberboard, etc.

Colorless to white solid that fumes in air at room temperature; [HSDB] Exists in 3 modifications; The alpha and beta forms are solids; mp = 62.3 and 32.5 deg C, respectively; The gamma form is a solid or liquid with a mp of 16.8 deg C; [Merck Index]

HYGROSCOPIC LIQUID OR SOLID IN VARIOUS FORMS. .

White needles

Asbestos-like needles

Pure sulfur trioxide is a colorless liquid that fumes in air at room temperature and pressure.

113 °F at 760 mmHg all forms (EPA, 1998)

Sublimes

144 °F Alpha form; 90.5 °F Beta form; 62.2 °F Gamma form (EPA, 1998)

Exists in three solid modifications: alpha, beta, and gamma. The alpha form seems to be the stable form but the solid transitions are commonly slow; a given sample may be a mixture of the various forms and its melting point not constant.

Physical form: asbestos-like needles; melting point: 32.5 °C; vapor pressure: 344 mm Hg at 25 °C /beta-form/

Slowly very sol in aqueous, and sol in 100 parts water at room temp

Solubility in water: violent reaction

1.92 at 68 °F Gamma form (liquid) (EPA, 1998) - Denser than water; will sink

Critical density: 0.630 g/cu cm

Relative density (water = 1): 1.9

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

2.76 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 2.8

73 mmHg at 77 °F Alpha form; 344 mmHg at 77 °F Beta form; 433 mmHg at 77 °F Gamma form (EPA, 1998)

263.0 [mmHg]

Vapor pressure: 73 mm Hg at 25 °C /alpha-form/

Vapor pressure, kPa at 25 °C: 57.7

The alpha form is the stable modification, the beta and gamma forms are metastable.[The Merck Index, Fourteenth Edition (2006)

When heated to decomposition ... emits toxic fumes of /sulfur oxides/.

Absolute dry sulfur trioxide is not corrosive to metals

43.14 kJ/mol at 25 °C

Explosive polymerization in case of non-presence of stabilizer and presence of humidity.

Reacts with water

Physical form: colorless solid or liquid; melting point: 16.8 °C; boiling point: 44.5 °C; density: 1.90 g/cu cm; reacts with water /gamma-form/

Physical form: white needles; melting point: 30.5 °C; boiling point: 44.5 °C; reacts with water /beta-form/

Sulfur trioxide can exist in both monomeric and polymeric forms. In the gaseous and liquid state, pure SO3 is an equilibrium mixture of monomeric SO3 and trimeric S3O9, also called Y-SO3.

Traces of moisture ... cause liquid SO3 to polymerize first to a low melting, asbestos-like form, beta-SO3 /which/ forms crystal with a silky luster. Additional reaction involves cross-linking of beta-SO3 to form a high melting, asbestos-like form, alpha-SO3 ... crystals resemble ice needles. An additional form has been mentioned ... as vaselinartiges ie, vaseline-like or gelatinous

Critical volume: 127 cu cm/mol

Heat of fusion: 8.60 kJ/mol /gamma-form/

Dielectric constant: 3.11 at 291.2 K

Melted sulfur trioxide exists in the gamma-form and on solidifying tends to the alpha form. The difference in vapor pressures explains the so-called "alpha explosion" of sulfur trioxide. Absolutely dry sulfur trioxide shows no acid reaction.

For more Other Experimental Properties (Complete) data for Sulfur trioxide (11 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Physical form: ice-like mass; melting point: 16.8 °C or liquid; density: 1.9224; boiling point: 44.8 °C at 760 mm Hg; vapor pressure: 433 mm Hg at 25 °C /gamma-form/

Oxidizing agent, fire risk in contact with organic materials, an explosive increase in vapor pressure occurs when the alpha-form melts.

Combines with water with explosive force, forming sulfuric acid. Sulfur trioxide chars most organic substances. On exposure to air it absorbs moisture rapidly, emitting dense white acidic fumes, mists [Merck 11th ed. 1989].

Acids, Strong Oxidizing

Strong Oxidizing Agent

Known Catalytic Activity

Water-Reactive

The reaction of SULFUR TRIOXIDE and oxygen difluoride is very vigorous and explosions occur if the reaction is carried out in the absence of a solvent [J. Chem. Eng. Data 13(4):529-531. 1968]. The reaction of sulfur trioxide in excess with tetrafluoroethylene causes explosive decomposition to carbonyl fluoride and sulfur dioxide [Chem. Eng. News 49(22):3. 1971]. The reaction of anhydrous perchloric acid with sulfur trioxide is violent and accompanied by the evolution of considerable heat (Pascal 16:300 1931-34). Liquid sulfur trioxide reacts violently with nitryl chloride, even at 75 °C. The reaction of sulfur trioxide and lead oxide causes white luminescence [Mellor 7:654 1946-47]. The combination of iodine, pyridine, sulfur trioxide, and formamide developed a gas over pressurization after several months. This is due to the slow formation of sulfuric acid, from external water or dehydration of the formamide to hydrogen cyanide.

The substance is a strong oxidant and reacts violently with combustible and reducing materials and organic compounds causing fire and explosion hazard. Reacts violently with water and moist air to produce sulfuric acid. The solution in water is a strong acid, it reacts violently with bases and is corrosive metals forming flammable/explosive gas (hydrogen).

On exposure to air, it absorbs moisture rapidly, emitting dense white fumes. Combines with water with explosive violence ... forming sulfuric acid.[The Merck Index, Fourteenth Edition (2006)

Dissolution of sulfur trioxide in ... /dimethyl/ sulfoxide is very exothermic and must be done slowly with cooling to avoid decomp.

... The 1:1 addition complex /dioxane & sulfur trioxide/ sometimes decomp violently on storing at ambient temp ...

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for Sulfur trioxide (14 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Serious local effects by all routes of exposure. The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its vapour.

Cough. Sore throat. Burning sensation. Shortness of breath. Laboured breathing.

Redness. Pain. Blisters. Serious skin burns.

Redness. Pain. Severe burns.

Burns in mouth and throat. Burning sensation behind the breastbone. Abdominal pain. Vomiting. Shock or collapse.

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

Dermatotoxin - Skin burns.

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

LCLo (guinea pig) = 30 mg/m3/6hr

LC50 Rat/male inhalation 1375 mg SO3/cu m 1 hr

LC50 Rat/female inhalation 1136 mg SO3/cu m 1 hr

Treatment includes the use of oxygen, decontamination with special attention to the eyes, and monitoring for hypoxic ischemia. Treatment should include use of beta-agonists for bronchospasm, repeat pulmonary function tests, and monitoring for delayed pulmonary edema. Steroids, antibiotics, and nebulized sodium bicarbonate have not been adequately studied.

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

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

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

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Sulfur trioxide and sulfuric acid mists are strongly irritants, and inhaling concn of approximately 3 mg/cu m causes a choking sensation. Persons accustomed to the exposure are unable to notice concn at this order of magnitude. Sulfur trioxide is irritating and corrosive to all mucous surfaces and causes inflammation of the upper respiratory tract and possible lung injury.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Lungs may be affected by repeated or prolonged exposure to an aerosol of this substance. Risk of tooth erosion upon repeated or prolonged exposure to an aerosol of this substance. Strong inorganic acid mists containing this substance are carcinogenic to humans.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Irritant and corrosive to mucous membranes. May cause coughing, choking and severe discomfort in a concn of 1 ppm.

/SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS/ Sulfur trioxide causes pulmonary skin and eye damage since it forms sulfuric acid.

For more Human Toxicity Excerpts (Complete) data for Sulfur trioxide (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/GENOTOXICITY/ The 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) formation and DNA damage by sulfur trioxide anion radicals (SO3.-) were investigated using ESR spin trapping, HPLC, and electrophoretic assays. Sulfite (SO3(2-) autoxidation generated both hydroxyl (.OH) and SO3.- radicals. Oxidation of SO3(2-) by chromium (VI) generated only SO3.- with much enhanced yield. Incubation of 2'-deoxyguanosine (dG) with SO3(2-) generated 8-OHdG albeit at low yield. Chromium (VI) enhanced the yield four-fold. Electrophoretic assays showed that SO3.- radicals generated by chromium (VI) oxidation of SO3(2-) caused DNA double strand breaks. The results demonstrate that SO3.- radicals are capable of causing dG hydroxylation and DNA double strand breaks.

1.40e+06

6.00e+06

1.00e+00

4.40e+00

2.10e+00

1.00e+02

1.00e-03

Volatile

4.30e+06

1.80e+07

3.10e+00

1.30e+01

6.30e+00

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

Atmospheric Fate: Sulfur trioxide is a highly reactive gas, and in the presence of moisture in the air it is rapidly hydrated to sulfuric acid. In the air, therefore, it is sulfuric acid in the form of an aerosol that is found rather than sulfur trioxide, and in general, it is associated with other pollutants in droplets or solid particles extending over a wide range of sizes.

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 56,102 workers (3,077 of these were female) were potentially exposed to sulfur trioxide in the US(1).

1.40e+06

6.00e+06

1.00e+00

4.40e+00

2.10e+00

1.00e+02

1.00e-03

Volatile

4.30e+06

1.80e+07

3.10e+00

1.30e+01

6.30e+00

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms.

Atmospheric Fate: Sulfur trioxide is a highly reactive gas, and in the presence of moisture in the air it is rapidly hydrated to sulfuric acid. In the air, therefore, it is sulfuric acid in the form of an aerosol that is found rather than sulfur trioxide, and in general, it is associated with other pollutants in droplets or solid particles extending over a wide range of sizes.

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 56,102 workers (3,077 of these were female) were potentially exposed to sulfur trioxide in the US(1).

SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational harm/injury/toxicity or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.

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. /Sulfur trioxide, inhibited; Sulfur trioxide, stabilized; Sulfiur trioxide, uninhibited/

Table: Table of Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances for Sulfur trioxide; Sulfur trioxide, inhibited; Sulfur trioxide, stabilized; Sulfur trioxide, uninhibited [Table#5885]

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

/GUIDE 137: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE - CORROSIVE/ Fire or Explosion: ... Some of these materials may burn, but none ignite readily. May ignite combustibles (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). Substance will react with water (some violently), releasing corrosive and/or toxic gases. Flammable/toxic gases may accumulate in confined areas (basement, tanks, hopper/tank cars etc.). Contact with metals may evolve flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated or if contaminated with water. Substance may be transported in a molten form. /Sulfur trioxide; Sulfur trioxide, stabilized; Sulfur trioxide, uninhibited/

/GUIDE 137: SUBSTANCES - WATER-REACTIVE - CORROSIVE/ 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. /Sulfur trioxide; Sulfur trioxide, stabilized; Sulfur trioxide, uninhibited/

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

UN 1829; Sulfur trioxide, stabilized

IMO 8.0; Sulfur trioxide, stabilized

49 300 50; Sulfur trioxide, stabilized

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.

Corrosive Poison Inhalation Hazard

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

UN Hazard Class: 8; UN Pack Group: I