Bromoform

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

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

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

H331: Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

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

P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P316, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

H302 (93.8%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]

H315 (98.8%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]

H319 (98.8%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

H331 (100%): Toxic if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H411 (98.8%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

Aggregated GHS information provided per 81 reports by companies from 9 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.

H320: Causes eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]

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

H336: May cause drowsiness or dizziness [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure; Narcotic effects]

H341: Suspected of causing genetic defects [Warning Germ cell mutagenicity]

H351: Suspected of causing cancer [Warning Carcinogenicity]

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

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]

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

H401: Toxic to aquatic life [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H412: Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P203, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P273, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

P203, P260, P261, P264, P264+P265, P270, P271, P280, P301+P317, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P318, P319, P321, P330, P332+P317, P337+P317, P362+P364, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Fresh air, rest. Artificial respiration may be needed. Refer for medical attention.

Rinse and then wash skin with water and soap. Seek medical attention if you feel unwell.

Rinse with plenty of water (remove contact lenses if easily possible).

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

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

SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water. IMMEDIATELY call a hospital or poison control center even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim to a hospital for treatment after washing the affected areas.

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

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

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

General First Aid:

· Call 911 or emergency medical service.

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

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

· Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.

· If victim is not breathing:

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

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

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

· Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.

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

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

· For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.

· Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to substance may be delayed.

· Keep victim calm and warm.

· Keep victim under observation.

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

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

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: Soap wash promptly - If this chemical contacts the skin, promptly wash the contaminated skin with soap and water. If this chemical penetrates the clothing, promptly remove the clothing and wash the skin with soap and water. Get medical attention promptly.

Breathing: Respiratory support

Swallow: Medical attention immediately - If this chemical has been swallowed, get medical attention immediately.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 159 [Substances (Irritating)]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or regular foam.

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

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles. Do not get water inside containers. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks in direct contact with flames. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. (ERG, 2024)

In case of fire in the surroundings, use appropriate extinguishing media.

Suitable extinguishing media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.

Advice for firefighters: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighting if necessary.

If material on fire or involved in fire: Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Extinguish fire using agent suitable for type of surrounding fire (Material itself does not burn or burns with difficulty.) Use water in flooding quantities as fog. Cool all affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Use foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide. Keep run-off water out of sewers and water sources.

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

· Keep unauthorized personnel away.

· Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream.

· 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.

Small Spill

· Pick up with sand or other non-combustible absorbent material and place into containers for later disposal.

Large Spill

· Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal.

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

Excerpt from ERG Guide 159 [Substances (Irritating)]:

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.

LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet).

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.

· Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 100 meters (330 feet).

· 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.

Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Ventilation. Collect leaking liquid in sealable containers. Absorb remaining liquid in sand or inert absorbent. Then store and dispose of according to local regulations. Do NOT wash away into sewer.

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Wear respiratory protection. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided. Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up: Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste. Keep in suitable, closed containers for disposal.

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U225, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

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.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

A potential candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. A potential candidate for liquid injection incineration at a temperature range of 650 to 1,600 °C and a residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds. A potential candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids. /SRP: If packaged as an aerosol, be careful when releasing in an incinerator or it will blow past the combustion zone./

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES: Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures: Wear respiratory protection. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Environmental precautions: Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into the environment must be avoided.

Precautions for safe handling: Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid inhalation of vapor or mist.

Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Wash hands before breaks and immediately after handling the product.

Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact with this product. Dispose of contaminated gloves after use in accordance with applicable laws and good laboratory practices. Wash and dry hands.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for Bromoform (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Excerpt from ERG Guide 159 [Substances (Irritating)]:

Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Stop leak if you can do it without risk.

SMALL SPILL: Pick up with sand or other non-combustible absorbent material and place into containers for later disposal.

LARGE SPILL: Dike far ahead of liquid spill for later disposal. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. (ERG, 2024)

Separated from strong bases, oxidants, metals and food and feedstuffs. Keep in the dark. Ventilation along the floor. Store only if stabilized. Store in an area without drain or sewer access. Provision to contain effluent from fire extinguishing.

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.

· 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.

1.5 [ppm]

140 [ppm]

850 [ppm]

0.5 ppm (5.2 mg/m³)

TWA 0.5 ppm (5 mg/m3) [skin]

0.5 [ppm]

0.5 ppm (5 mg/m³)

850 ppm (NIOSH, 2024)

850.0 [ppm]

Excerpts from Documentation for IDLHs: It has been reported that 14,000 to 16,000 ppm will cause rapid loss of consciousness [Patty 1963].

See: 75252

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.5 ppm.

Peak Exposure Recommendation: Transient increases in workers' exposure levels may exceed 3 times the value of the TLV-TWA level for no more than 15 minutes at a time, on no more than 4 occasions spaced 1 hour apart during a workday, and under no circumstances should they exceed 5 times the value of the TLV-TWA level. In addition, the 8-hour TWA is not to be exceeded for an 8-hour work period.

A3; Confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans.

0.5 ppm as TWA; A3 (confirmed animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans).

carcinogen category: 3

Small Fire

· Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or regular foam.

Large Fire

· Water spray, fog or regular foam.

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

· Dike runoff from fire control for later disposal.

Fire Involving Tanks, Rail Tank Cars or Highway Tanks

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

· Do not get water inside containers.

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

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

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

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

DOE Protective Action Criteria (PAC): Temporary Emergency Exposure Limits (TEELs) for Tribromomethane: TEEL-0: 0.5 ppm; PAC-1: 0.5 ppm; PAC-2: 1 ppm; PAC-3: 850 ppm (TEEL-0: The threshold concentration below which most people will experience no adverse health effects; PAC-1: The maximum concentration in air below which it is believed nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to one hour without experiencing other than mild transient adverse health effects or perceiving a clearly defined objectionable odor; PAC-2: The maximum concentration in air below which it is believed nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to one hour without experiencing or developing irreversible or other serious health effects or symptoms that could impair their abilities to take protective action; PAC-3: The maximum concentration in air below which it is believed nearly all individuals could be exposed for up to one hour without experiencing or developing life-threatening health effects).

Australia: 0.5 ppm, skin (1990); United Kingdom: 0.5 ppm, skin (1990).

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

The substance is irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract. The substance may cause effects on the central nervous system.

The substance may have effects on the liver and kidneys.

Excerpt from NIOSH Pocket Guide for Bromoform:

Skin: PREVENT SKIN CONTACT - Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.

Eyes: PREVENT EYE CONTACT - Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.

Bromoform appears as a colorless liquid with a chloroform-like odor. Denser than water (density: 2.9 g / cm3 ) and slightly soluble in water. Hence sinks in water. Nonflammable. Toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption. A lachrymator. Used as a solvent and to make pharmaceuticals. Often stabilized with 1 to 3% ethanol.

Colorless to yellow liquid with a chloroform-like odor; Note: A solid below 47 degrees F; [NIOSH]

COLOURLESS LIQUID WITH CHARACTERISTIC ODOUR. TURNS YELLOW ON EXPOSURE TO LIGHT AND AIR.

Colorless to yellow liquid with a chloroform-like odor.

Colorless to yellow liquid with a chloroform-like odor. [Note: A solid below 47 °F.]

Colorless heavy liquid

Colorless to yellow liquid [Note: A solid below 47 degrees F]

Similar to chloroform

Sweetish taste

301.1 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992)

149.2 °C

149.5 °C

149.1 °C @760 [mm Hg]

48 °F (NTP, 1992)

less than 0.1 mg/mL at 72.5 °F (NTP, 1992)

In water, 3,100 mg/L at 25 °C

Soluble in about 800 parts water

In water, 0.3 g/100 mL water at 30 °C

0.1 g/100 g water at 20 °C

For more Solubility (Complete) data for Bromoform (8 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Solubility in water, g/100ml at 20 °C: 0.1 (poor)

2.8912 at 68 °F (USCG, 1999) - Denser than water; will sink

2.8788 g/cu cm at 25 °C

Relative density (water = 1): 2.9

2.8788 @25 °C

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

8.7 (Air = 1)

Relative vapor density (air = 1): 8.7

5 mmHg at 68 °F ; 5.6 mmHg at 77 °F (NTP, 1992)

5.4 [mmHg]

5.4 mm Hg at 25 °C /extrapolated/

Vapor pressure, kPa at 20 °C: 0.67

7.5 [mm Hg] @30.5 °C

log Kow = 2.40

Henry's Law constant = 5.35X10-4 atm-cu m/mol at 25 °C

Stable under recommended storage conditions.

Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions. - Carbon oxides, Hydrogen bromide gas.

When heated to decomposition it emits highly toxic fumes of /hydrogen bromide/.

0.74 mm²/s at 15 °C

... Liquid bromoform will attack some forms of plastics, rubber, and coatings.

Slightly soluble in water.

Halogenated Organic Compounds

Heating BROMOFORM to decomposition produces highly toxic fumes of carbon oxybromide (carbonyl bromide) and hydrogen bromide [Sax, 9th ed., 1996, p. 519]. Reaction with powdered potassium or sodium hydroxide, Li or Na/K alloys, is violently exothermic [Weizmann, C. et al., J. Am Chem. Soc., 1948, 70, p. 1189]. Explosive reaction with crown ethers in the presence of potassium hydroxide [Le Goaller, R. et al., Synth. Comm., 1982, 12, p. 1163].

Incompatible materials: Alkali metals.

Violent reaction with acetone or bases. Incompatibile with lithium or sodium-potassium alloys.

Lithium mixed with ... /bromoform/ can explode on impact ... .

Mixt of sodium-potassium alloy and bromoform ... can explode on standing at room temp. They are especially sensitive to impact.

Lithium, sodium, potassium, calcium, aluminum, zinc, magnesium, strong caustics, acetone [Note: Gradually decomposes, acquiring yellow color; air & light accelerate decomposition.]

IDENTIFICATION AND USE: Bromoform is a colorless heavy liquid. It is used as intermediate in organic synthesis, geological assaying, solvent for waxes, greases, and oils. It is also used in hair treatment formulations. Bromoform was formerly used as an antiseptic and sedative. HUMAN STUDIES: Accidental ingestion of the liquid has produced central nervous system depression with coma and loss of reflexes; smaller doses have led to listlessness, headache, and vertigo. Exposure to bromoform vapor caused irritation of the respiratory tract, pharynx, and larynx, as well as lacrimation and salivation. Several cases of poisoning have occurred in children; some have had maximally constricted pupils, but others have had mydriasis, probably related to depth of depression of CNS. Bromoform induced sister chromatid exchanges and cell-cycle delays in human lymphocytes in vitro. ANIMAL STUDIES: Undiluted bromoform was moderately irritating to rabbit eyes, and healing was complete in 1 to 2 days. Repeated skin contact caused moderate irritation to rabbit skin. Inhalation of very high concentrations (56,000 or 84,000 ppm) of bromoform vapor for 1 hour has been reported to cause death in dogs. The chief symptoms noted were initial excitation followed by deep sedation. This indicates that central nervous system depression is probably the chief cause of death in such acute exposures. A single ip dose of 3 mmol/kg bw given to rats has also been shown to produce renal dysfunction, characterized by a reduction in glomerular filtration rate, reduced renal concentrating ability and elevated blood urea nitrogen levels. Following administration of bromoform by gavage to mice, changes included fatty infiltration of liver and signs of hemorrhage in kidneys, adrenals, lung, and brain. Males were more sensitive than females. In mice, bromoform has been observed to produce tubular hyperplasia and glomerular degeneration after an oral dose of 289 mg/kg bw daily for 14 days. No significant alterations in the number of resorption sites, fetuses per litter, fetal body weights, fetal malformations or visceral anomalies were observed in the offspring of rats administered up to 200 mg/kg/day bromoform in corn oil by oral gavage on gestational days 6-15. NTP studies demonstrated carcinogenic activity of bromoform in male and female rats but not in male or female mice. Bromoform exhibited mutagenicity in Salmonella typhimurium strain TA100 in the absence of metabolic activation and in strains TA97 and TA98 when exposure occurred in the presence of metabolic activation. Bromoform produced no increases in revertant colonies in TA1535 or TA1537 with or without metabolic activation. When tested in cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells for cytogenetic effects, bromoform produced an increase in both sister chromatid exchanges and chromosomal aberrations in the absence, but not in the presence of metabolic activation. ECOTOXICITY STUDIES: Bromoform, chloroform, and tetrachloroethylene act synergistically to alter a key regulator of neuronal development in surf clam embryo.

Bromine is a powerful oxidizing agent and is able to release oxygen free radicals from the water in mucous membranes. These free radicals are also potent oxidizers and produce tissue damage. In additon, the formation of hydrobromic and bromic acids will result in secondary irritation. The bromide ion is also known to affect the central nervous system, causing bromism. This is believed to be a result of bromide ions substituting for chloride ions in the in actions of neurotransmitters and transport systems, thus affecting numerous synaptic processes. (L626, L627, A543)

Bromoform

Gastrointestinal

2 x 10 ^-2 mg/kg-day

Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) and(or) Waste-water effluent contaminant

MCL applies to total trihalomethanes

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

Evaluation: No epidemiological data relevant to the carcinogenicity of bromoform were available. There is limited evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of bromoform. Overall evaluation: Bromoform is not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans (Group 3).

CLASSIFICATION: B2; probable human carcinogen. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: Based on inadequate human carcinogen data and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in animals, namely an increased incidence of tumors after oral administration of bromoform in rats and intraperitoneal administration in mice. Bromoform is genotoxic in several assay systems. Also bromoform is structurally related to other trihalomethanes (e.g., chloroform, bromodichloromethane, dibromochloromethane) which have been verified as either probable or possible carcinogens. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Inadequate. ANIMAL CARCINOGENICITY DATA: Sufficient. /Based on former classification system/

A3; Animal carcinogen with unknown relevance to humans.

Group 3: Not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans

Volume 52: (1991) Chlorinated Drinking-water; Chlorination By-products; Some Other Halogenated Compounds; Cobalt and Cobalt Compounds

Volume 71: (1999) Re-evaluation of Some Organic Chemicals, Hydrazine and Hydrogen Peroxide (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3)

Tribromomethane

TR-350: Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Tribromomethane (Bromoform) (CASRN 75-25-2) in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Gavage Studies) (1989 )

04/18/88

Some Evidence

Clear Evidence

No Evidence

Under the conditions of these 2-year gavage studies, there was some evidence of carcinogenic activity of tribromomethane for male F344/N rats and clear evidence of carcinogenic activity for female F344/N rats, based on increased incidences of uncommon neoplasms of the large intestine. Reduced survival for male rats given 200 mg/kg tribromomethane lowered the sensitivity of this group to detect a carcinogenic response. Chemically related nonneoplastic lesions included fatty change and active chronic inflammation of the liver in male and female rats, minimal necrosis of the liver in male rats, and mixed cell foci of the liver in female rats. There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity for male B6C3F1 mice given 50 or 100 mg/kg tribromomethane or for female B6C3F1 mice given 100 or 200 mg/kg; male mice might have been able to tolerate a higher dose. Survival of female mice was reduced, partly due to a utero-ovarian infection.

/go/baresults

3, not classifiable as to its carcinogenicity to humans. (L135)

Bromine vapour causes irritation and direct damage to the mucous membranes. Elemental bromine also burns the skin. The bromide ion is a central nervous system depressant and chronic exposure produces neuronal effects. This is called bromism and can result in central reactions reaching from somnolence to coma, cachexia, exicosis, loss of reflexes or pathologic reflexes, clonic seizures, tremor, ataxia, loss of neural sensitivity, paresis, papillar edema of the eyes, abnormal speech, cerebral edema, delirium, aggressiveness, and psychoses. (L625, L626, L627)

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

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

Oral (L626) ; inhalation (L626) ; dermal (L626)

Cough. Further see Ingestion.

Redness. See Ingestion.

Watering of the eyes. Redness. Pain.

Headache. Dizziness. Drowsiness.

irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; central nervous system depression; liver, kidney damage

Bromine vapour causes irritation and direct damage to the mucous membranes. Symptoms include lacrimation, rhinorrhoea, eye irritation with mucous secretions from the oropharyngeal and upper airways, coughing, dyspnoea, choking, wheezing, epistaxis, and headache. The bromide ion is a central nervous system depressant producing ataxia, slurred speech, tremor, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, dizziness, visual disturbances, unsteadiness, headaches, impaired memory and concentration, disorientation and hallucinations. This is called bromism. (L626, L627)

Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, liver, kidneys

Neurotoxin - Acute solvent syndrome

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.

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

ACGIH Carcinogen - Confirmed Animal.

3 x 10^-2 mg/kg-day

PDF Document

LC50; Species: Crassostrea virginica (Eastern oyster) larvae; Conditions: static bioassay; after 48 hr, only approx 30% of original concentration was still present; Concentration: 1 mg/L for 48 hr

LC50; Species: Mysidopsis bahia (Mysid shrimp); Conditions: static bioassay; Concentration: 24,400 mg/L for 96 hr

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea) age <24 hr; Conditions: freshwater, static, 22 °C, pH 8.0 (7.4-9.4), hardness 173 mg/L CaCO3, dissolved oxygen >60%; Concentration: 56 mg/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 44-68 mg/L) />80% purity/

LC50; Species: Daphnia magna (Water flea) age <24 hr; Conditions: freshwater, static, 22 °C, pH 8.0 (7.4-9.4), hardness 173 mg/L CaCO3; Concentration: 46 mg/L for 24 hr (95% confidence interval: 42-51 mg/L) />80% purity/

For more Ecotoxicity Values (Complete) data for Bromoform (10 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Using the surf clam embryo, ...the effects of the combination of bromoform, chloroform, and tetrachloroethylene, three pollutants found in high concentrations in the municipal water supply in Brick, New Jersey /were investigated/. Exposure produced an increase in an isoform of the regulatory subunit (RII) of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, demonstrated by confocal microscopy and western blotting. Embryos showed an increase in RII where the primordial gill and ciliated velar epithelium are innervated. This increase correlated with increased ciliary activity, indicating a corresponding rise in the catalytic subunit. Treatment resulted in decreased threonine phosphorylation of actin. There was no effect on neurotransmitters or receptors of the serotonergic-dopaminergic nervous system. These effects occurred only with the ternary mixture. No significant effect was seen with individual or paired components. This is the first report showing that bromoform, chloroform, and tetrachloroethylene act synergistically to alter a key regulator of neuronal development.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Flow-through, acute (96-hr), and early life stage (28-day after hatch) toxicity tests were performed with eight chemicals /including bromoform/ on a saltwater fish, sheepshead minnows (Cyprinodon variegatus). Chemical effects on survival, growth, and development were determined. Maximum acceptable toxicant concentrations (MATCs) were ... greater than 4.8 less than 8.5 mg/L for bromoform ...

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Using seawater for toilet flushing may introduce high levels of bromide and iodide into a city's sewage treatment works, and result in the formation of brominated and iodinated disinfection byproducts (DBPs) during chlorination to disinfect sewage effluents. In a previous study, the authors' group has detected the presence of many brominated DBPs and identified five new aromatic brominated DBPs in chlorinated saline sewage effluents. The presence of brominated DBPs in chlorinated saline effluents may pose adverse implications for marine ecology. In this study, besides the detection and identification of another seven new aromatic halogenated DBPs in a chlorinated saline sewage effluent, their developmental toxicity was evaluated using the marine polychaete Platynereis dumerilii. For comparison, the developmental toxicity of some commonly known halogenated DBPs was also examined. The rank order of the developmental toxicity of 20 halogenated DBPs was 2,5-dibromohydroquinone > 2,6-diiodo-4-nitrophenol >/= 2,4,6-triiodophenol > 4-bromo-2-chlorophenol >/= 4-bromophenol > 2,4-dibromophenol >/= 2,6-dibromo-4-nitrophenol > 2-bromo-4-chlorophenol > 2,6-dichloro-4-nitrophenol > 2,4-dichlorophenol > 2,4,6-tribromophenol > 3,5-dibromo-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde > bromoform >/= 2,4,6-trichlorophenol > 2,6-dibromophenol > 2,6-dichlorophenol > iodoacetic acid >/= tribromoacetic acid > bromoacetic acid > chloroacetic acid. On the basis of developmental toxicity data, a quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) was established. The QSAR involved two physical-chemical property descriptors (log P and pKa) and two electronic descriptors (the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy and the highest occupied molecular orbital energy) to indicate the transport, biouptake, and biointeraction of these DBPs. It can well predict the developmental toxicity of most of the DBPs tested.

1.90e+01

8.60e+01

2.60e+00

1.10e+01

3.30e+00

8.0E+01(G)

8.70e-04

2.10e-02

7.90e-03

2.00e-02

Volatile

9.15e+02

1.90e+03

8.60e+03

2.60e+02

1.10e+03

3.30e+02

8.0E+01 (G)

The substance is harmful to aquatic organisms. The substance may cause long-term effects in the aquatic environment. It is strongly advised not to let the chemical enter into the environment.

Bromoform's production and use in organic synthesis, geological assaying, electronic industry in quality assurance programs may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Former uses as a solvent for waxes, greases and oils, in medicinal applications, fire extinguishers, and in the shipbuilding, aircraft and aerospace industries may have resulted in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Bromoform is also a by-product of water disinfection. Marine algae and sea kelp have been shown to produce bromoform and the compound has been reported in volcanic gas. If released to air, a vapor pressure of 5.40 mm Hg at 25 °C indicates bromoform will exist solely as a vapor in the atmosphere. Vapor-phase bromoform will be degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals; the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 109 days. Bromoform does not contain chromophores that absorb at wavelengths >290 nm and, therefore, is not expected to be susceptible to direct photolysis by sunlight. If released to soil, bromoform is expected to have high mobility based upon Koc values of 116 and 126. Volatilization from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon a Henry's Law constant of 5.35X10-4 atm-cu m/mole. Bromoform may volatilize from dry soil surfaces based upon its vapor pressure. Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 0% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 4 weeks, indicating that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in soil or water. However, bromoform is readily degraded in laboratory experiments under anaerobic conditions. If released into water, bromoform is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment based upon the Koc values. Volatilization from water surfaces is expected to be an important fate process based upon this compound's Henry's Law constant. Estimated volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 3.4 hours and 7.1 days, respectively. BCF values of 19 and 21 suggest the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low. Hydrolysis is not expected to be an important environmental fate process based on a hydrolysis half-life of 686 years. Occupational exposure to bromoform may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where bromoform is produced or used, or where water disinfection takes place. Monitoring data indicate that the general population may be exposed to bromoform via inhalation of ambient air and ingestion of drinking water and food. (SRC)

Bromoform is produced by macroalgae(1-4) and microalgae(5). Bromoform was quantified in several species of algae as follows: Ascophyllum nodosum - 28-520 ng/g, 120 ng/g mean; Fucus vesiculous - 24-62 ng/g, 41 ng/g mean; Gigartina stellata - 3-19 ng/g, 9 ng/g mean, all measurements were made on a dry weight basis(1). An experimentally-determined production rate for coralline algae (Corallinaceae) collected from the Sea of Japan is 83 ng/hour/g of algae (wet weight)(2). Bromoform is produced in polar brown, green, and red macroalgae at rates of 150, 32, and 45 picomole/g/day wet weight and in subtropic green and red macroalgae at rate of 102 picomole/g/day wet weight(3). Laboratory and in-situ measurements of bromoform production by giant kelp (M. Pyrifera) collected from the southern California coastal region ranged from 25-1,126 (median = 171) ng/day/g of fresh weight and 136-304 (median = 256) ng/day/g of fresh weight, respectively(6). Bromoform was detected in fumaroles and lava gas at Mt Etna, Italy, sampled in March 1998(7).

Bromoform's production and use in organic synthesis, geological assaying(1), electronic industry in quality assurance programs(2) may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Former uses as a solvent for waxes, greases and oils(2), in medicinal applications(2,3), fire extinguishers, and in the shipbuilding, aircraft and aerospace industries(4), may have resulted in its release to the environment through various waste streams(SRC). Bromoform is a by-product of the chlorination of sea water(5) and disinfection of drinking water(6).

TERRESTRIAL FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values of 116(2) and 126(3) indicate that bromoform is expected to have high mobility in soil(SRC). Volatilization of bromoform from moist soil surfaces is expected to be an important fate process(SRC) given a Henry's Law constant of 5.35X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(4). Bromoform is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 5.40 mm Hg at 25 °C(5). Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 0% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 4 weeks(6) indicating that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in soil(SRC). However, under anaerobic conditions, bromofrom was >99% removed(7), indicating biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in anoxic environments(SRC).

AQUATIC FATE: Based on a classification scheme(1), Koc values of 116(2) and 126(3) indicate that bromoform is not expected to adsorb to suspended solids and sediment(SRC). Volatilization from water surfaces is expected(4) based upon a Henry's Law constant of 5.35X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(5). Using this Henry's Law constant and an estimation method(4), volatilization half-lives for a model river and model lake are 3.4 hrs and 7.1 days, respectively(SRC). According to a classification scheme(6), measured BCF values of 19 and 21(7) suggest the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC). Utilizing the Japanese MITI test, 0% of the Theoretical BOD was reached in 4 weeks(7) indicating that biodegradation is not an important environmental fate process in water(SRC). However, under anaerobic conditions, bromofrom was >99% removed(8), indicating biodegradation may be an important environmental fate process in anoxic environments(SRC).

ATMOSPHERIC FATE: According to a model of gas/particle partitioning of semivolatile organic compounds in the atmosphere(1), bromoform, which has a vapor pressure of 5.60 mm Hg at 25 °C(2), is expected to exist solely as a vapor in the ambient atmosphere. Vapor-phase bromoform is degraded in the atmosphere by reaction with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals(SRC); the half-life for this reaction in air is estimated to be 109 days(SRC), calculated from its rate constant of 1.47X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(3). Bromoform 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).

AEROBIC: Bromoform, present at 100 mg/L, exhibited 0% biodegradation in 4 weeks using an activated sludge inoculum at 30 mg/L in the Japanese MITI test(1). Bromoform was not biodegraded in aerobic batch cultures(2). No biodegradation of bromoform was observed after 39 days in seawater collected from kelp beds from southern California(3). Bromoform was incubated with sewage seed at 5 and 10 mg/L for 7 days followed by three weekly subcultures at 25 °C; in the 5 and 10 mg/L cultures, bromoform had degraded by 11% and 4% respectively, at 7 days and by 48% and 35%, respectively, at 28 days(4).

ANAEROBIC: Transformation of bromoform has been observed in laboratory experiments under conditions of denitrification and methanogenesis(1-3). The experiments were conducted in continuous flow columns intended to simulate groundwater environments(1-2). The columns were seeded with mixed cultures of bacteria; acetate was used as the primary substrate(1-2). Approximately 20% of the initial concentration of 57 ug/L underwent biodegradation after 6.25 hours; approximately 30% biodegraded after 25 hours(1). Greater than 99% of the initial concentration of 18 ug/L was removed under methanogenic, denitrification and sulfate reducing conditions after 2.5 days(2). Greater than 99% reduction of bromoform, initially present at 132-177 ug/L was observed after 1.5 hours in a continuous flow column that was seeded with primary settled sewage; the above removal rate was attained approximately 1 year after operation of the column began(3). Anaerobic rate constants for bromoform were measured at 0.00096-0.0062/day in stream water(4). Under denitrifying conditions, a 60 ug/L solution of bromoform degraded to 59, 37, 35, and 2 ug/L after 2, 3, 4, and 6 weeks, respectively(5).

The rate constant for the vapor-phase reaction of bromoform with photochemically-produced hydroxyl radicals is 1.47X10-13 cu cm/molecule-sec at 25 °C(1). This corresponds to an atmospheric half-life of about 109 days at an atmospheric concentration of 5X10+5 hydroxyl radicals per cu cm(2). A base-catalyzed second-order hydrolysis rate constant of 3.6X10-5 L/mole-sec(SRC) was estimated using a structure estimation method(2); this corresponds to half-lives of 6000 and 600 yrs at pH values of 7 and 8, respectively(2). Bromoform 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).

Measured BCF values of 21 and 19 were reported in fish for bromoform at concentrations of 110 and 10 ug/L, respectively, using carp (Cyprinus carpio) which were exposed over an 4-week period(1). According to a classification scheme(2), these BCF values suggest the potential for bioconcentration in aquatic organisms is low(SRC).

Koc values for bromoform have been reported as 116(1) and 126(2). According to a classification scheme(3), these Koc values suggest that bromoform is expected to have high mobility in soil(SRC). A Freundlich K value of 1.54 was determined using Keweenaw sandy loam(1).

The Henry's Law constant for bromoform is reported as 5.35X10-4 atm-cu m/mole(1). This Henry's Law constant indicates that bromoform is expected to volatilize from water surfaces(2). Based on this Henry's Law constant, the volatilization half-life from a model river (1 m deep, flowing 1 m/sec, wind velocity of 3 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 3 hours(SRC). The volatilization half-life from a model lake (1 m deep, flowing 0.05 m/sec, wind velocity of 0.5 m/sec)(2) is estimated as 7.1 days(SRC). Bromoform volatilization constants of 0.080/hour and 1.40/hour were estimated in chilled (4 °C) and boiled (100 °C) water, respectively(5). Estimated volatilization constants in experiments at 25 and 30 °C ranged from 0.044/hour to 0.332/hour depending on the width and liquid level in the glass(3). The volatilization half-lives of bromoform at 25 °C at depths of 6.5 cm and 14.5 cm were 29.3 and 65.4 min, respectively(4). Bromoform is expected to volatilize from dry soil surfaces(SRC) based upon a vapor pressure of 5.40 mm Hg(5).

GROUNDWATER: Bromoform was detected in 21.9% of 1072 samples in NJ at a maximum concentration or 34.3 ppb(1,2). Bromoform was found in one ground water sample taken in Europe at 3.83 ug/L from 1980 to 2000(3). Bromoform was not detected in ground water from the Salt River alluvium in Phoenix, AZ(4). In a US survey run from 1985 to 1995 bromoform was detected in 2.8% of 406 urban and 0.4% of 2542 rural groundwater samples(5). Bromoform was detected in ground water storage aquifers at 2.0, 3,5, and 2.6 ug/L in 1991-1992, 1993-1994, and 1995-1996 seasons, respectively, in Las Vegas Nevada(6). Bromoform was analyzed at the Gloucester site in Ottawa, Canada with concentrations of not detected to 310 ug/L(7).

Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U225, must conform with USEPA regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.

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.

Product: Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material. Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber; Contaminated packaging: Dispose of as unused product.

A potential candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of 820 to 1,600 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and hours for solids. A potential candidate for liquid injection incineration at a temperature range of 650 to 1,600 °C and a residence time of 0.1 to 2 seconds. A potential candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range of 450 to 980 °C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and longer for solids. /SRP: If packaged as an aerosol, be careful when releasing in an incinerator or it will blow past the combustion zone./

/GUIDE 159 SUBSTANCES (Irritating)/ Fire or Explosion: Some of these materials may burn, but none ignite readily. Containers may explode when heated.

/GUIDE 159 SUBSTANCES (Irritating)/ Health: Inhalation of vapors or dust is extremely irritating. May cause burning of eyes and flow of tears. May cause coughing, difficult breathing and nausea. Brief exposure effects last only a few minutes. Exposure in an enclosed area may be very harmful. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases. Runoff from fire control or dilution water may cause pollution.

/GUIDE 159 SUBSTANCES (Irritating)/ Public Safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number on Shipping Paper first. If Shipping Paper not available or no answer, refer to appropriate telephone number listed on the inside back cover. As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area in all directions for at least 50 meters (150 feet) for liquids and at least 25 meters (75 feet) for solids. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind, uphill and/or upstream. Ventilate closed spaces before entering.

/GUIDE 159 SUBSTANCES (Irritating)/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing that is specifically recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection. Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations where direct contact with the substance is possible.

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

UN 2515; Bromoform

IMO 6.1; Bromoform

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. Bromoform is included on the dangerous goods list.

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. Bromoform is included on the dangerous goods list.

Do not transport with food and feedstuffs. Marine pollutant.

Symbol: T, N; R: 22-23-36/38-51/53; S: (1/2)-28-45-61-63

UN Hazard Class: 6.1; UN Pack Group: III