Wood Alcohol

Methyl alcohol, or methanol, CH3OH, is the simplest of all the alcohols. It was formerly made by the destructive distillation of wood; however, almost all of the methanol produced today is synthetic, made from hydrogen and carbon monoxide. Methanol is used as a denaturant for grain alcohol (see below), as an antifreeze, as a solvent for gums and lacquers, and in the synthesis of many organic compounds, particularly formaldehyde. When taken internally, by either drinking the liquid or inhaling the vapors, methanol is extremely poisonous.

 Common Name:    Methyl Alcohol 
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 HAZARD SUMMARY 
 *    Methyl Alcohol can affect you when breathed in and by passing 
      through your skin. 
 *    Exposure can cause blindness. 
 *    It may damage the liver. 
 *    Exposure to high concentrations can cause headaches, nausea, 
      vomiting and dizziness. It can cause death. 
 *    Repeated or prolonged contact can cause dryness and cracking 
      of the skin. 
 *    Methyl Alcohol is a FLAMMABLE LIQUID and a FIRE HAZARD. 
 
 IDENTIFICATION 
 Methyl Alcohol is a colorless liquid with a strong odor. It is used 
 as a solvent and cleaner. 
 
  HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION 
 Acute Health Effects 
 The following acute (short term) health effects may occur 
 immediately or shortly after exposure to Methyl Alcohol: 
 
 *    Contact may irritate the eyes, and exposure to high 
      concentrations can irritate the eyes, nose, mouth, and throat. 
 *    Breathing the vapor or absorbing the liquid through the skin 
      can cause permanent blindness. 
 *    Exposure to high concentrations can cause headaches, nausea, 
      vomiting and dizziness. It can cause death. 
 
 Long Term Effects 
 *    It may damage the liver. 
 *    Repeated or prolonged contact can cause dryness and cracking 
      of the skin. 
 
HANDLING AND STORAGE 
 
 *    Prior to working with Methyl Alcohol you should be trained on 
      its proper handling and storage. 
 *    Methyl Alcohol must be stored to avoid contact with STRONG 
      OXIDIZERS (such as CHLORINE, BROMINE, and FLUORINE). 
 *    Store in tightly closed containers in a cool well ventilated 
      area away from HEAT. 
 *    Sources of ignition such as smoking and open flames are 
      prohibited where Methyl Alcohol is handled, used, or stored. 
 *    Metal containers involving the transfer of 5 gallons or more 
      should be grounded and bonded. Drums must be equipped with 
      self closing valves, pressure vacuum bungs, and flame 
      arresters. 
 *    Use only non sparking tools and equipment, especially when 
      opening and closing containers of Methyl Alcohol. 
 
 *    Methyl Alcohol is a FLAMMABLE LIQUID. 
 *    Use dry chemical, CO2, or alcohol foam extinguishers and water 
      to keep fire exposed containers cool. 
 *    POISONOUS GASES ARE PRODUCED IN FIRE, including Formaldehyde. 
 
  FIRST AID 
 
  Eye Contact 
 *    Immediately flush with large amounts of water for at least 15 
      minutes, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids. Seek 
      medical attention immediately. 
 
 Skin Contact 
 *    Quickly remove contaminated clothing. Immediately wash area 
      with large amounts of water. Seek medical attention. 
 
 Breathing 
 *    Remove the person from exposure. 
 *    Begin rescue breathing if breathing has stopped and CPR if 
      heart action has stopped. 
 *    Transfer promptly to a medical facility.