Phosphorus

H228: Flammable solid [Danger Flammable solids]

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

P210, P240, P241, P273, P280, P370+P378, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 9.9% (108 of 1090) of reports.

H228 (72.5%): Flammable solid [Danger Flammable solids]

H250 (17.4%): Catches fire spontaneously if exposed to air [Danger Pyrophoric liquids]

H300 (18.2%): Fatal if swallowed [Danger Acute toxicity, oral]

H314 (18%): Causes severe skin burns and eye damage [Danger Skin corrosion/irritation]

H330 (17.6%): Fatal if inhaled [Danger Acute toxicity, inhalation]

H400 (18.1%): Very toxic to aquatic life [Warning Hazardous to the aquatic environment, acute hazard]

H412 (72.5%): Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]

P210, P222, P231, P233, P240, P241, P260, P264, P270, P271, P273, P280, P284, P301+P316, P301+P330+P331, P302+P335+P334, P302+P361+P354, P304+P340, P305+P354+P338, P316, P320, P321, P330, P363, P370+P378, P391, P403+P233, P405, and P501 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Aggregated GHS information provided per 1090 reports by companies from 13 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.

Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 108 of 1090 reports by companies.

There are 11 notifications provided by 982 of 1090 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.

Not Classified

P210, P240, P241, P280, and P370+P378 (click each P-code to see the statement)

Signs and Symptoms of Acute Phosphorus Exposure: Signs and symptoms of acute exposure to phosphorus may be severe and occur in three stages. The first stage will involve burns, pain, shock, intense thirst, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, and "smoking stools." The breath and feces may have garlicky odor. The second stage will be a symptom-free period of several days in which the patient appears to be recovering. The third stage may be severe and include nausea, bloody vomitus, diarrhea (may be bloody), jaundice, liver enlargement with tenderness, renal damage, hematuria (bloody urine), and either oliguria (little urine formation) or anuria (no urine formation). Headache, convulsions, delirium, coma, cardiac arrhythmias, and cardiovascular collapse may also occur. If phosphorus contacts the eyes, then severe irritation and burns, blepharospasm (spasmodic winking), lacrimation (tearing), and photophobia (heightened sensitivity to light) may occur. Eye contact may lead to a total destruction of the eyes. Victims may experience spontaneous hemorrhaging of phosphorus-contaminated skin and mucous membranes.

Emergency Life-Support Procedures: Acute exposure to phosphorus 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 phosphorus.

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. RUSH to a health care facility.

Dermal/Eye Exposure:

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

3. Remove contaminated clothing as soon as possible.

4. Brush nonadherent phosphorus from skin areas, then flush skin with water. Immerse exposed skin areas in water or cover with a wet dressing.

5. If eye exposure has occurred, eyes must be flushed with lukewarm water for AT LEAST 15 MINUTES. Keep exposed eyes covered with wet compresses.

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

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

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

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

5. Ambulate (walk) and give water to the victims.

6. RUSH to a health care facility. (EPA, 1998)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 133 [Flammable Solids]:

Refer to the "General First Aid" section. Specific First Aid: Removal of solidified molten material from skin requires medical assistance. (ERG, 2024)

White/Yellow: Deluge with water, taking care not to scatter, until fire is extinguished and phosphorus has solidified, then cover with wet sand or dirt. Red: Flood with water and when fire is extingushed, cover with wet sand or dirt. Extreme caution should be used during clean up since reignition may occur. Under certain conditions at high temperature, red phosphorus reverts to more hazardous white phosphorus.

Small fires: dry chemical, sand, water spray, or foam. Large fires: water spray, fog, or foam. Cool containers that are exposed to flames with water from the side until well after fire is out. (EPA, 1998)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 133 [Flammable Solids]:

SMALL FIRE: Dry chemical, CO2, sand, earth, 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.

FIRE INVOLVING METAL PIGMENTS OR PASTES (E.G. "ALUMINUM PASTE"): Aluminum Paste fires should be treated as a combustible metal fire. Use DRY sand, graphite powder, dry sodium chloride-based extinguishers or class D extinguishers. Also, see ERG Guide 170.

FIRE INVOLVING TANKS, RAIL TANK CARS OR HIGHWAY TANKS: Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire is out. For massive fire, use unmanned master stream devices or monitor nozzles; if this is impossible, withdraw from area and let fire burn. 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)

- White phosphorus is extremely flammable.

- Phosphorus will spontaneously ignite if exposed to air.

- Phosphorus ignites at approximately 86°F (30°C) in air; the ignition temperature is higher when the air is dry.

- Phosphorus reacts violently with oxidants, halogens, some metals, nitrites, sulfur, and many other compounds, causing a fire hazard.

- The agent burns rapidly, releasing dense, white irritating fumes.

- The agent can be transported in a molten form.

- The agent may re-ignite after a fire is extinguished.

- For small fires, use cold water spray, wet sand, or wet earth.

- For large fires, use cold water spray or fog. Do not scatter spilled material with high-pressure cold water streams. Move containers from the fire area if it is possible to do so without risk to personnel.

- Fight fires involving tanks or car/trailer loads from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of cold water until well after the fire is out. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices or discoloration of tanks. Always stay away from tanks engulfed in fire.

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

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

Flood with water to control flames, then smother with wet sand, clay, ground limestone. Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors and toxic decomposition products. Where access to the area is strictly controlled, it may be best to allow the release to burn itself out. Fire situations may require evacuation. Fight fire from protected location or maximum possible distance. /Phosphorus, white, molten/

Flood with water to control flames, then smother with wet sand, clay, ground limestone. Approach fire from upwind to avoid hazardous vapors and toxic decomposition products. /Phosphorus, amorphous/

White phosphorus may be present as a contaminant or formed in fire situations. Fumes from phosphorus fires are highly irritating to lungs, skin, eyes. /Phosphorus, amorphous/

Fumes from phosphorus fires are highly irritating to lungs, skin, eyes. /Phosphorus, white, molten/

Excerpt from ERG Guide 133 [Flammable Solids]:

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

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)

Immediately douse the spill with water & cover with wet sand or dirt.

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

Phosphorus (white or yellow) is a waste chemical stream constituent which may be subjected to ultimate disposal by controlled incineration.

Cover with wet sand, shovel into bucket and remove to safe, open, isolated area where the phosphorus can be burnt off under supervision after drying out. Small spillages of phosphorus can be burnt off in a fume cupboard. Recommendable methods: Incineration & open burning. Not recommendable method: Landfill. Peer-review: Spontaneously flammable if dry. Mix with wet earth, allow to dry, ignite at a remote place. (Peer-review conclusions of an IRPTC expert consultation (May 1985))

White and yellow phosphorus is a waste chemical stream constituent which may be subjected to ultimate disposal by controlled incineration. Controlled incineration followed by alkaline scrubbing and particulate removal equipment.

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.

White: Caution: handle with forceps.

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.

The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.

For more Preventive Measures (Complete) data for PHOSPHORUS, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Caution : Flammable solid. Avoid sources of extreme heat or ignition including sparks or fire. White (or yellow) phosphorus may spontaneously ignite on contact with damp surfaces, including water or skin. Phosphorus will liberate toxic gases and vapors when heated.

Keep unnecessary people away; isolate hazard area and deny entry. Stay upwind; keep out of low areas. Any clothing which becomes contaminated should be removed immediately. (EPA, 1998)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 133 [Flammable Solids]:

ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or flames) from immediate area. Do not touch or walk through spilled material.

SMALL DRY SPILL: With clean shovel, place material into clean, dry container and cover loosely; move containers from spill area.

LARGE SPILL: Wet down with water and dike for later disposal. Prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. (ERG, 2024)

Separate from air, oxidizing materials, combustibles. Always keep container closed, with material under water or inert gas. /Phosphorus, white, molten/

Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from oxidizing materials. Always keep container closed. /Phosphorus, amorphous/

0.01 [mg/m3], inhalable fraction[German Research Foundation (DFG)]

AEGL 1: Notable discomfort, irritation, or certain asymptomatic non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure (Unit: mg/m3)

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

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

6.7 mg/m3

20 mg/m3

85 mg/m3

4.7 mg/m3

14 mg/m3

59 mg/m3

3.7 mg/m3

11 mg/m3

47 mg/m3

0.93 mg/m3

2.8 mg/m3

12 mg/m3

0.47 mg/m3

1.4 mg/m3

5.9 mg/m3

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

AEGLs Status: Proposed

0.27 [mg/m3]

3 [mg/m3]

18 [mg/m3]

0.1 mg/m³

5 mg/m3 [From NPG: Phosphorus (yellow)] (NIOSH, 2024)

5 mg/cu m

8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 0.1 mg/cu m. /Phosphorus (yellow)/

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. /Phosphorus (yellow)/

0.1 mg/m³ [1992]

Acute Inhalation: 0.02 mg/m3 (L134)

Intermediate Oral: 0.0002 mg/kg/day (L134)

Australia: 0.1 mg/cu m (1990); Federal Republic of Germany: 0.1 mg/cu m (total dust), short-term level 0.2 mg/cu m, 5 min, 8 times per shift (1991); United Kingdom: 0.1 mg/cu m, 10 min STEL 0.3 mg/cu m (1991).

White phosphorus is not classifiable as a carcinogen. However, it is not a suspected carcinogen. It is unknown whether chronic or repeated exposure to white phosphorus increases the risk of reproductive toxicity or developmental toxicity. Chronic industrial inhalation exposure to white phosphorus fumes has resulted in various symptoms. Examples include general disability, inflammation of the large airways (bronchitis), anemia, physical wasting and malnutrition (cachexia), and destruction of the jaw bones, called “phossy jaw” or “Lucifer’s jaw.”

For emergency situations, wear a positive pressure, pressure-demand, full facepiece self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or pressure- demand supplied air respirator with escape SCBA and a fully-encapsulating, chemical resistant suit. (EPA, 1998)

Excerpt from ERG Guide 133 [Flammable Solids]:

Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides thermal protection but only limited chemical protection. (ERG, 2024)

Red: Dust mask; gloves of rubber vinyl; chemical safety glasses; rubber shoes.

Yellow: ... Use flame-retardant clothing, gloves, face shields (eight-inch minimum), and any other appropriate protective clothing to prevent any possibility of skin contact ... . Use dust and splash-proof safety goggles .... Any clothing which becomes contaminated ... should be removed immediately ... .

Respiratory protection (supplied-air respirator with full facepiece or self-contained breathing apparatus) should be available where these compounds are manufactured or used and should be worn in case of emergency and overexposure. /Phosphorus compounds/

Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact. [Note: Flame retardant personal protective equipment should be provided.]

Phosphorus, amorphous (red or violet) appears as red or dark crystals or powder. Not white phosphorus but rather one of the numerous less reactive polymorphic forms of the element. Not soluble in water.

Phosphorus, [black] appears as black crystalline or amorphous solid resembling graphite. Conducts electricity. Denser than water and insoluble in water. Hence sinks in water. (USCG, 1999)

Other Solid; Large Crystals; Other Solid; Dry Powder; Wet Solid; Large Crystals; Dry Powder; Other Solid; Liquid; Other Solid; Liquid

White to yellow, soft, waxy solid with acrid fumes in air.

White to yellow transparent, waxy crystalline solid. Turns dark on exposure to light.

Exists in three main allotropic forms: white, black, and red. The same liquid is obtained from all forms on melting.

Colorless or white, transparent, crystalline solid; waxy appearance; darkens on exposure to light. Sometimes called yellow phosphorus; color due to impurities. Two allotropic modifications: alpha-form exists at room temperature; cubic crystals containing P4 molecules; beta-form hexagonal crystals. /White phosphorus/

Yellow /allotropic form/: Colorless to yellow, wax-like solid.

Black /allotropic form/: Polymorphic; orthorhombic crystalline form; amorphous form.

For more Color/Form (Complete) data for PHOSPHORUS, ELEMENTAL (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Garlic-like

536 °F at 760 mmHg ; white-yellow ignites at 86 °F in moist air; red ignites at 500 °F. (EPA, 1998)

838.9 °F at 760 mmHg (USCG, 1999)

280.5 °C @760 [mm Hg]

111.2 °F white-yellow; 1094 °F violet; 1094 °F red (EPA, 1998)

Black: Melting point = 610 °C

111.4 °F

44.15 °C

Black: Insoluble in organic solvents; White: Insoluble in water, slightly soluble in benzene, ethanol, and chloroform, soluble in carbon disulfide; Red: Insoluble in water and organic solvents.

Solubilities in water: one part/300,000 parts water; in abs alc: one g/400 mL; in abs ether: one g/102 mL; in CHCl3: one g/40 mL; in benzene: one g/35 mL; in CS2: one g/0.8 mL. Solubility in oils: one gram phosphorus dissolves in 80 ml olive oil, 60 ml oil of turpentine, about 100 mL almond oil.

0.33 mg/100 g water at 15 °C; 2.7 g/100 g benzene at 15 °C; 89.8 g/100 g carbon disulfide at 10 °C

2.34 red, 2.36 violet; 2.70 black; 1.8 white-yellow (EPA, 1998)

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

1.83 (alpha-form); 1.88 (beta form)

Density = 1.74 g/cu cm at 50 °C (liquid)

Black: Orthorhombic crystalline forms: stable in air; resembles graphite in texture; density 2.691. Does not catch fire spontaneously. Amorphous form prepared at lower pressures. At higher pressure the orthorhombic form undergoes reversible transition to a rhombohedral structure, density 3.56, and a cubic structure, density 3.83.

Red: The properties of red phosphorus are intermediate between those of the white and black forms. Density 2.34. Insoluble in organic solvents. Soluble in phosphorus tribromide. Less active than the white form; reacts only at high temperature. Yields the white modification when distilled at 290 °C. Catches fire when heated in air to about 260 °C and burns with formation of the pentoxide. Burns when heated in an atmosphere of chlorine.

1.823 @25 °C

4.77 red; 4.42 white-yellow (EPA, 1998) (Relative to Air)

Red: 4.77; White: 4.42 (Air = 1)

0.026 mmHg at 68 °F White-yellow (EPA, 1998)

0.026 mm Hg at 20 °C

0.03 mmHg

Black: Stable in air

White: Darkens on exposure to light.

Yellow: Gives off acrid fumes on exposure to air

White phosphorus is the most reactive allotropic form of elemental phosphorus, combusting (oxidizing) spontaneously in the presence of oxygen to form P4O10 and P4O6, which in turn are easily hydrated to form oxo acids of phosphorus.

500 °F (USCG, 1999)

greater than 752 °F (USCG, 1999)

Red: 260 °C; White: 30 °C

Not reactive with air (unlike white phosphorus). Not soluble in water.

Stable in air. Does not spontaneously ignite in air (a property of white or yellow phosphorus). Insoluble in water.

Reducing Agents, Weak

PHOSPHORUS, AMORPHOUS (RED OR VIOLET) is a reducing agent. Much less reactive than the allotropic white phosphorus. Reacts strongly with bromine trifluoride. [Mellor 2:113. 1946-47]. Explodes on contact with bromoazide.

PHOSPHORUS, [BLACK] is a reducing agent. Much less reactive than the allotropic white phosphorus. Reacts strongly with bromine trifluoride. [Mellor 2:113. 1946-47]. Explodes on contact with bromoazide.

Red: Avoid uncontrolled contact with oxidizing agents ... or with strong alkaline hydroxides. Can react violently with oxidizing agent in presence of air & moisture, liberating phosphorus acids & toxic, spontaneously flammable phosphine gas.

Air, oxidizers (including elemental sulfur & strong caustics), halogens [Note: Ignites spontaneously in moist air].

Caution: avoid contact with potassium chlorate, potassium permanganate, peroxides and other oxidizing agents; explosions may result on contact or friction.

Phosphorus boiled with alkaline hydroxides yields mixed phosphines which may ignite spontaneously in air.

For more Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities (Complete) data for PHOSPHORUS, ELEMENTAL (31 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

CDC-ATSDR Toxicological Profile

Exposure to white phosphorus has been shown to damage the rough endoplasmic reticulum and cause a disaggregation of polyribosomes. This damage results in impairment of protein synthesis, in particular, a decrease in the synthesis of the apolipoprotein portion of very low density lipoproteins (VLDL), which are required for the transport of triglycerides. This causes an accumulation of triglycerides in the liver, resulting in steatosis and fibrosis. White phosphorus also damages the mitochondia, impairing a cell’s ability to produce ATP and resulting in necrosis. The mitochondrial damage may also inhibit fatty acid oxidation, which could result in an accumulation of fat in the organs. (L88)

White phosphorus

Reproductive

2 x 10 ^-5 mg/kg-day

Phosphorus

Nutrient

For white phosphorus

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

Cancer Classification: Group D Not Classifiable as to Human Carcinogenicity

CLASSIFICATION: D; not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity. BASIS FOR CLASSIFICATION: Based on no data in humans or animals. HUMAN CARCINOGENICITY DATA: None. ANIMAL CARCINOGENICITY DATA: None.

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

Exposure to white phosphorus may cause liver, heart, or kidney damage. It can also result in death. Breathing white phosphorus for long periods may cause a condition known as 'phossy jaw', which involves poor wound healing of the mouth and breakdown of the jaw bone. Anemia and leukopenia in people chronically exposed to airborne white phosphorus. (L88)

White phosphorus absorbs into the body when inhaled, ingested, or through  skin contact. It is unknown whether systemic exposure can occur from eye contact.

Inhalation; dermal; ingestion. (L88)

- White phosphorus fumes cause severe irritation and the sensation of a foreign body in the eye. This leads to excessive tear production (lacrimation), spasmodic blinking (blepharospasm), and increased sensitivity to light (photophobia).

- White phosphorus particles are caustic and seriously damaging when in contact with tissues. They cause damage to the cornea. Examples include perforation, inflammation of the interior of the eyeball (endophthalmitis), and abnormal turning out of the eyelid (ectropion).

- Stage 1:- Feeling of warmth or burning pain in the throat and abdomen accompanied by feelings of intense thirst;

- Nausea, vomiting (emesis), diarrhea, and severe abdominal pain;

- Garlic odor to the breath, vomitus, and feces;

- Vomitus and feces may glow (luminesce) and are capable of causing burns on contact with skin;

- Death may occur within 24 to 48 hours due to complete cardiovascular collapse.

- Expect eye and upper respiratory tract irritation.

- Delayed onset of accumulation of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) is possible.

- Whole-body (systemic) effects may also occur.

- See Ingestion Exposure.

- White phosphorus causes severely painful, partial (second degree) to full thickness (third degree) burns, which have a characteristic yellow color and garlic-like odor. Smoke may release from the burn site from the continued burning of white phosphorus or the formation of phosphoric acid.

- White phosphorus is highly fat soluble, and easily absorbed through the skin, possibly causing whole-body (systemic) effects.

- See Ingestion Exposure

Breathing white phosphorus for short periods may cause coughing and irritation of the throat and lungs. Eating or drinking small amounts of white phosphorus may cause stomach cramps, or drowsiness. (L88)

Cardiovascular (Heart and Blood Vessels), Gastrointestinal (Stomach and Intestines, part of the digestive system), Gastrointestinal (Stomach and Intestines, part of the digestive system), Hepatic (Liver), Renal (Urinary System or Kidneys), Respiratory (From the Nose to the Lungs)

LD50 Rat (Charles-River, female) oral 3.03 mg/kg (L88)

LD50 Rat (Charles-River, male) oral 3.76 mg/kg (L88)

LD50 Mouse (Swiss, female) oral 4.82 mg/kg (L88)

LD50 Mouse (Swiss, male) oral 4.85 mg/kg (L88)

LD50 Rat (Charles-River, female) oral 3.03 mg/kg

LD50 Rat (Charles-River, male) oral 3.76 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse (Swiss, female) oral 4.82 mg/kg

LD50 Mouse (Swiss, male) oral 4.85 mg/kg

Ingestion of white phosphorus can be treated with gastric lavage. Otherwise, treatment is mainly symptomatic. (L88)

... Liquid petrolatum is said to retard absorption and decrease phosphorus toxicity.

It has been demonstrated that intragastric administration of cysteine hydrochloride in a dose of 50 mg/kg and sodium sulfate in a dose of 25 mg/kg with reference to sulfate ion reduced the circulatory disturbances, dystrophic and sclerotic changes in the rat liver caused by intragastric administration of yellow phosphorus at a dose of 1 mg/kg. Admin of the drugs interfered with the development of liver cirrhosis, stimulated regeneration, and raised the adaptive abilities of hepatocytes. Cysteine protected hepatocyte mitochondria from phosphorus and activated their function.

The interactive effects of copper sulfate associated with dermal absorption are equivocal. Information was located suggesting antagonistic effects of copper sulfate solutions in water, glycerol, and oil with respect to phosphorus absorption. Emulsions of 3% copper sulfate (with 1% hydroxyethyl cellulose, 5% sodium bicarbonate, and 1% lauryl sulfate) applied to white phosphorus burns also appeared to demonstrate an antagonistic interaction in one study by preventing white phosphorus-induced death in rats. However, the same emulsion solution had no beneficial effect in a later repeat of the experiment. The mechanism by which copper sulfate theoretically impedes dermal absorption of phosphorus following white phosphorus burn is the formation of a copper-phosphorus complex (Cu3P2) that will not be absorbed, is unstable and may decompose to ionic copper and phosphate when in contact with oxygen in the air

/BIRDS and MAMMALS/ ... This study reports on the effects of white phosphorus on reproductive function in the mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) in captivity. Fertility, hatching success, teratogenicity, and egg laying frequency were examined in 70 adult female mallards who received up to seven daily doses of 0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg/kg of white phosphorus. Measurements of fertility and hatchability were reduced by the white phosphorus. Teratogenic effects were observed in embryos from hens dosed at all treatment levels. Egg laying frequency was reduced even at the lowest treatment level; treated hens required a greater number of days to lay a clutch of 12 eggs than control hens. After two doses at 2.0 mg/kg, all females stopped laying completely for a minimum of 10 days, and laying frequency was depressed for at least 45 days. Fertility of 10 adult male mallards dosed with 1.0 mg/kg of white phosphorus did not differ from 10 controls, but plasma testosterone levels were significantly (p< 0.05) reduced in the treated males 1 day after dosing ended. These results provide evidence that productivity of free-ranging mallards may be impaired if they are exposed to white phosphorus at typical field levels.

/AQUATIC SPECIES/ Half the crustacean population died after 4.5 days exposure to water containing 20 mg phosphorus/L. Elemental phosphorus at 5-15 mg/L water disrupted feeding, reproduction, and body color among Daphnia magna Straus populations.

/FIELD STUDIES/ Extensive waterfowl mortality involving thousands of ducks, geese, and swans has occurred annually at Eagle River Flats, Alaska, USA, since at least 1982. The primary agent for this mortality has been identified as white phosphorus.

1.60e+00

2.30e+01

4.00e-01

1.5E+01(G)

1.50e-03

Volatile

4.70e+00

7.00e+01

1.20e+00

1.5E+01 (G)

Phosphorus' production and use in the synthesis of phosphate compounds, in flame retardants, in semiconductors, for smoke screens, and for the striking surface for matches may result in its release to the environment through various waste streams. Phosphorus' former production and use as a pesticide may have resulted in its direct release to the environment. The abundance of phosphorus in the earth's crust is about 0.12%. Phosphorus does not occur freely in nature. It is found in the form of phosphates in minerals and in small quantities in granite rocks. It occurs in all fertile soil and is an essential constituent of protoplasm, nervous tissue, and bones. At ambient temperatures white phosphorus spontaneously ignites when exposed to air. Occupational exposure to phosphorus may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where phosphorus is produced or used. Phosphorus pesticide exposure should be low or non-existent since phosphorus is no longer produced or used in the US as a pesticide (Spring, 1998). (SRC)

Phosphorus abundance in the earth's crust: about 0.12%. Does not occur free in nature; found in the form of phosphates in the minerals chlorapatite, fluorapatite, vivianite, wavellite, and "phosphate rock" or phosphorite; occurs in small quantities in granite rocks; occurs in all fertile soil; an essential constituent of protoplasm, nervous tissue, and bones

Elemental phosphorus has been reported as such in a meteorite

At ambient temperatures, white phosphorus spontaneously ignites when exposed to air(1).

NIOSH (NOES Survey 1981-1983) has statistically estimated that 208,975 workers (7,598 of these are female) are potentially exposed to phosphorus in the US(1). Occupational exposure to phosphorus may occur through inhalation and dermal contact with this compound at workplaces where phosphorus is produced or used(SRC).

Occupational exposure involves acetyl cellulose makers, bronze alloy makers, munitions workers, smoke bomb and incendiary makers, ... fertilizer makers, electroluminescent-coating makers, and semiconductor workers. /Phosphorus/

Occupational exposure involves ... pesticide rat poison worker ... /former/ /Phosphorus/

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

Phosphorus (white or yellow) is a waste chemical stream constituent which may be subjected to ultimate disposal by controlled incineration.

Cover with wet sand, shovel into bucket and remove to safe, open, isolated area where the phosphorus can be burnt off under supervision after drying out. Small spillages of phosphorus can be burnt off in a fume cupboard. Recommendable methods: Incineration & open burning. Not recommendable method: Landfill. Peer-review: Spontaneously flammable if dry. Mix with wet earth, allow to dry, ignite at a remote place. (Peer-review conclusions of an IRPTC expert consultation (May 1985))

White and yellow phosphorus is a waste chemical stream constituent which may be subjected to ultimate disposal by controlled incineration. Controlled incineration followed by alkaline scrubbing and particulate removal equipment.

/GUIDE 133 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS/ Fire or Explosion: Flammable/combustible material. May be ignited by friction, heat, sparks or flames. Some may burn rapidly with flare burning effect. Powders, dusts, shavings, borings, turnings or cuttings may explode or burn with explosive violence. Substance may be transported in a molten form at a temperature that may be above its flash point. May re-ignite after fire is extinguished. /Phosphorus, amorphous; Phosphorus, amorphous, red; Red phosphorus; Red phosphorus, amorphous/

/GUIDE 133 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS/ Health: Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases. Contact may cause burns to skin and eyes. Contact with molten substance may cause severe burns to skin and eyes. Runoff from fire control may cause pollution. /Phosphorus, amorphous; Phosphorus, amorphous, red; Red phosphorus; Red phosphorus, amorphous/

/GUIDE 133 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS/ 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 for at least 25 meters (75 feet) in all directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Keep out of low areas. /Phosphorus, amorphous; Phosphorus, amorphous, red; Red phosphorus; Red phosphorus, amorphous/

/GUIDE 133 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS/ Protective Clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Structural firefighters' protective clothing will only provide limited protection. /Phosphorus, amorphous; Phosphorus, amorphous, red; Red phosphorus; Red phosphorus, amorphous/

For more DOT Emergency Guidelines (Complete) data for PHOSPHORUS, ELEMENTAL (16 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

UN 2447; Phosphorus, white, molten

UN 1381; Phosphorus, white or yellow, dry or in water, in solution or under water

UN 1338; Phosphorus, amorphous, red.

IMO 4.2; Phosphorus, white, molten; Phosphorus, white or yellow, dry or in water, in solution or under water

IMO 4.1; Phosphorus, amorphous, red.

49 167 25; Phosphorus, amorphous, red (crude, red & yellow mixed)

49 161 42; Phosphorus, amorphous, red

49 161 41; Phosphorus, white or yellow, in water

49 161 40; Phosphorus, white or yellow, dry

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. Phosphorus, amorphous; phosphorus, white, dry; phosphorus, white, in solution; phosphorus, white, under water; phosphorus, yellow, dry; phosphorus, yellow, in solution; phosphorus, yellow, under water; and phosphorus, white, molten are 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. Phosphorus, amorphous; phosphorus, white or yellow, dry or under water or in solution; and phosphorus, white, molten are included on the dangerous goods list.

Flammable Solid