User:Giselle.celestial/New sandbox

Safety
α-methylstyrene has numerous safety concerns considering its industrial use as α-methylstyrene is toxic by all routes (ingestion, inhalation and skin absorption). AMS is known to cause serious eye and respiratory irritation. There is evidence to conclude that α-methylstyrene is a chemical known to cause reproductive toxicity as well. Another safety concern of α-methylstyrene is that it is also highly flammable and an environmental toxicant.

Inhalation Inhaling vapors of α-methylstyrene can cause irritation of the respiratory tract this can also co occur with symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness breathlessness & asphyxiation. OSHA has established a 100 ppm ceiling limit for workplace exposure of AMS and a total eight hour weight average of 50 ppm. When the presence of α-methylstyrene is in use Engineering controls must be used to maintain airborne levels of α-methylstyrene to at or below the permissible limit. In situations where over-exposure may occur, it is necessary to wear chemical protective clothing and a self-contained breathing apparatus. Fresh air and rest are the recommended first aid treatments in the instance of exposure to α-methylstyrene vapors.

Dermal If α-methylstyrene is exposed to the eyes, irrigate exposed eyes with tepid water for at least 15 minutes (if possible it is also recommended to remove contact lenses). Skin that has been exposed skin should be washed thoroughly with soap and water as skin irritation may occur. Contaminated clothing should be removed and left at worksite for cleaning.

Flammable α-methylstyrene is also highly flammable under conditions in which it is moderately heated or exposed to relatively high ambient temperatures with an NFPA fire rating of 2. Fire may produce inhalants that are irritating, corrosive and or toxic. In the case of small fires use dry chemical, CO2, or regular foam as the use of water spray may be inefficient. In the case of large fires the use of fog or regular foam is recommended, avoiding aiming straight or solid streams directly onto the product. If tank, rail car or tank truck is involved in fire it is recommended to immediately evacuate the area for 800 meters in all directions (½ mile)

Environmental Proper waste disposal procedures should also be followed as α-methylstyrene is toxic to aquatic life and presents a possible long term hazard to aquatic environments. Consult with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal practices.