IPCS INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMME ON CHEMICAL SAFETY
Health and Safety Guide No. 103
WHITE SPIRIT (STODDARD SOLVENT)
HEALTH AND SAFETY GUIDE
UNITED NATIONS ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME
INTERNATIONAL LABOUR ORGANISATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION
WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION, GENEVA 1996
This report contains the collective views of an international group of
experts and does not necessarily represent the decisions or the stated
policy of the United Nations Environment Programme, the International
Labour Organisation, or the World Health Organization.
WHO Library Cataloguing in Publication Data
White Spirit (Stoddard solvent): health and safety guide.
(Health and safety guide ; no. 103)
1.Solvents - adverse effects 2.Solvent - toxicity
3.Environmental exposure I.Series
ISBN 92 4 151103 6 (NLM Classification: QV 633)
ISSN 0259-7268
The World Health Organization welcomes requests for permission to
reproduce or translate its publications, in part or in full.
Applications and enquiries should be addressed to the Office of
Publications, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland, which
will be glad to provide the latest information on any changes made to
the text, plans for new editions, and reprints and translations
already available.
(c) World Health Organization 1996
Publications of the World Health Organization enjoy copyright
protection in accordance with the provisions of Protocol 2 of the
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The designations employed and the presentation of the material in this
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the part of the Secretariat of the World Health Organization
concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or
of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or
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The mention of specific companies or of certain manufacturers'
products does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by the
World Health Organization in preference to others of a similar nature
that are not mentioned. Errors and omissions excepted, the names of
proprietary products are distinguished by initial capital letters.
TABLE OF CONTENT
1. PRODUCT IDENTITY AND USES
1.1 Identity
1.2 Physical and chemical properties
1.3 Analytical methods
1.4 Production and uses
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1 Environmental transport, distribution and transformation
2.2 Environmental levels and human exposure
2.3 Kinetics and metabolism
2.4 Effects on laboratory and in vitro systems
2.5 Effects on humans
2.6 Effects on other organisms in the laboratory and field
3. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
3.1 Conclusions
3.2 Recommendations
4. HUMAN HEALTH HAZARDS, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY ACTION
4.1 Human health hazards, prevention and protection, first aid
4.1.1 Advice to physicians
4.1.2 Health surveillance advice
4.2 Explosion and fire hazards
4.3 Storage
4.4 Transport
4.5 Spillage and disposal
5. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
6. SUMMARY OF CHEMICAL SAFETY INFORMATION
7. CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND STANDARDS
7.1 Previous evaluations by international bodies
7.2 Exposure limit values
7.3 Labelling, packaging and transport
BIBLIOGRAPHY
INTRODUCTION
The Environmental Health Criteria (EHC) monographs produced by the
International Programme on Chemical Safety include an assessment of
the effects on the environment and on human health of exposure to a
chemical or combination of chemicals, or physical or biological
agents. They also provide guidelines for setting exposure limits.
The purpose of a Health and Safety Guide is to facilitate the
application of these guidelines in national chemical safety
programmes. The first three sections of a Health and Safety Guide
highlight the relevant technical information in the corresponding EHC.
Section 4 includes advice on preventive and protective measures and
emergency action; health workers should be thoroughly familiar with
the medical information to ensure that they can act efficiently in an
emergency. Within the Guide is a Summary of Chemical Safety
Information which should be readily available, and should be clearly
explained, to all who could come into contact with the chemical. The
section on regulatory information has been extracted from the legal
file of the International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals
(IRPTC) and from other United Nations sources.
The target readership includes occupational health services, those in
ministries, governmental agencies, industry, and trade unions who are
involved in the safe use of chemicals and the avoidance of
environmental health hazards, and those wanting more information on
this topic. An attempt has been made to use only terms that will be
familiar to the intended user. However, sections 1 and 2 inevitably
contain some technical terms. A bibliography has been included for
readers who require further background information.
Revision of the information in this Guide will take place in due
course, and the eventual aim is to use standardized terminology.
Comments on any difficulties encountered in using the Guide would be
very helpful and should be addressed to:
The Director
International Programme on Chemical Safety
World Health Organization
1211 Geneva 27
Switzerland
THE INFORMATION IN THIS GUIDE SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS A STARTING
POINT TO A COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAMME
1. PRODUCT IDENTITY AND USES
1.1 Identity
Common names: white spirit, Stoddard solvent.
White spirit is a mixture of saturated aliphatic and alicyclic
C7 to C12 hydrocarbons with a maximum content of 25% of C7 to C12
alkyl aromatic hydrocarbons.
Molecular formulae:
CnH2n+2 ( n-alkanes and isoalkanes)
CnH2n (cycloalkanes)a
CnH2n-6 (aromatics), n > 6
Relative molecular mass:
150 (Approximate average value)
92-170 (for single constituents)
Common synonyms:
Lacknafta (Sweden); Lakkibensiini (Finland); Mineral Spirit;
Mineral Turpentine; Mineralsk Terpentin (Denmark); Mineralterpentin
(Sweden); Petroleum Spirits; Solvent Naphtha; Stoddard solvent;
Terpentin (Denmark); Testbenzin (Germany); Turpentine Substitute.
Common trade name:
B.A.S.; C.A.S.; Clairsol; Dilutine; Exxsol; Halpasol; Hydrosol;
Indusol; Sane; Kristalloel; Laws; Ragia; Sangajol; Shellsol; Solfina;
Solnap; Solvesso; Spezialbenzin; Spirdane; Spraysol; Stoddard Solvent;
Supersol; Terpentina; Tetrasol; Thersol; Varnolene; Varsol; W.S.;
White Spirit.
CAS registry number:8052-41-3 (Stoddard solvent);
64742-82-1 (white spirit type 1);
64741-92-0 (white spirit type 2);
64742-48-9 (white spirit type 3);
64742-88-7 (white spirit type 0).
Three different types and three different grades of white spirit
exist. The type refers to whether the solvent has been subjected to
hydrodesulfurization (removal of sulfur) alone (type 1), solvent
a Aliphatic alkanes are also known as "paraffins", while
"naphthenes" is a commonly used term for cycloalkanes.
extraction (type 2) or hydrogenation (type 3). Each type comprises
three different grades: low flash grade, regular grade and high flash
grade. The grade is determined by the crude oil used as the starting
material and the conditions of distillation.
In addition there is type 0, which is defined as distillation
fraction with no further treatment, consisting predominantly of
saturated C9 to C12 hydrocarbons with a boiling range of 140-200°C.
A USA variety of type 1 is called Stoddard solvent. It is a
petroleum distillate defined according to its boiling range of
149-204°C and the absence of rancid or objectionable odours.
1.2 Physical and chemical properties
White spirit is clear, colourless, non-viscous solvent with a
characteristic odour. Other properties are given in Table 1.
Conversion factors (at 25°C and normal atmospheric pressure):
1 ppm = 5.25 to 6.0 mg/m3
1 mg/m3 = 0.17 to 0.19 ppm
1.3 Analytical methods
Sampling of air for white spirit may be performed by the use of
gas pipettes or flexible bags. Alternatively, white spirit vapour can
be trapped on charcoal tubes.
Analytical measurements in air may be conducted by directly
reading infrared instruments, which yield quantitative results of
total content of hydrocarbons. Qualitative results can be obtained by
gas chromatographic separation of the sample and detection by flame
ionization or mass spectrometry.
1.4 Production and uses
In 1985 the total amount of the various white spirit solvent
produced in the USA was 922 000 tonnes. This was made up of odourless
white spirit (236 000 tonnes), Stoddard solvent (324 000 tonnes) and
140 Flash solvent (326 000 tonnes).
White spirit is used as an extraction solvent, as a cleaning
solvent, as a degreasing solvent and as a solvent in aerosols, paints,
wood preservatives, lacquers, varnishes and asphalt products. In
western Europe about 60% of the total white spirit consumption is used
in paints, lacquers and varnishes. White spirit is the most widely
used solvent in the paint industry.
Table 1. Physical properties of white spirit
Low flash Regular High flash
Initial boiling point (IBP) (°C) 130-144 145-174 175-200
Final boiling point (°C) IBP+21, max. 220
Average relative molecular mass 140 150 160
Relative density (15°C) 0.765 0.780 0.795
Flash point (°C) 21-30 31-54 > 55
Vapour pressure (kPa, 20°C) 1.4 0.6 0.1
Volatility (n-butyl acetate=1) 0.47 0.15 0.04
Autoignition temperature (°C) 240 240 230
Explosion limits (% by volume in air) 0.6-6.5 0.6-6.5 0.6-8
Vapour density (air=1) 4.5-5 4.5-5 4.5-5
Refractive index (at 20°C) 1.41-1.44 1.41-1.44 1.41-1.44
Table 1. (Cont'd)
Low flash Regular High flash
Viscosity (cps, 25°C) 0.74-1.65 0.74-1.65 0.74-1.65
Solubility (% by weight in water) < 0.1 < 0.1 < 0.1
Kauri-butanol value 29-33 29-33 29-33
Aniline point (°C) 60-75 60-75 60-75
Reactivity reaction with strong
oxidizing agents
Odour threshold (mg/m3) - 0.5-5 4
2. SUMMARY AND EVALUATION
2.1 Environmental transport, distribution and transformation
The environmental transport and transformation of white spirit
constituents will depend on the physico-chemical and biological
properties of the constituents. The lower molecular weight alkanes
and aromatics tend to volatilize and undergo photodegradation in the
atmosphere. The higher molecular weight alkanes and cycloalkanes tend
to be sorbed to organic matter in soil or water. Biodegradation is
expected to be the primary fate of white spirit in soil and water.
Biodegradation of C7 to C12 hydrocarbons is expected to be
significant under environmental conditions favourable to microbial
oxidation. Ready biodegradability has been demonstrated in laboratory
tests using sewage sludge. The low water solubility and moderate
vapour pressure of white spirit suggest that volatilization and
subsequent photooxidation are important for abiotic degradation.
Reported octanol/water partition coefficients (log Pow) of 3.5 to 6.4
indicate a moderate potential for bioaccumulation. However, the
degradability and lowered bioavailability following sorption would
reduce the likelihood of bioconcentration in the field.
2.2 Environmental levels and human exposure
There are few data on white spirit in air, water or soil.
Monitoring at a site contaminated with spilt white spirit (Stoddard
solvent) revealed soil levels of up to 3600 mg/kg and deep soil water
levels of up to 500 mg/litre. Biodegradation led to a 90% reduction
in soil concentration over a 4-month period following remediation.
Humans are predominately exposed to white spirit through the
inhalation of vapour. The general population is exposed during the
domestic use of paints and lacquers containing white spirit. Mean
exposure concentrations during amateur painting have not been
estimated but would be expected to be similar to those encountered by
professionals. Exposure concentrations for humans in recently painted
rooms would be expected to be lower, but no estimated values are
available. Occupationally exposed humans would be exposed to similar
concentrations during house painting. Spray-painting could lead to
higher exposures and exposure to aerosols. An 8-h average exposure
level of 150-240 mg/m3 has been estimated for painters in ventilated
rooms. Peak concentrations in closed or poorly ventilated rooms may
be as high as 6200 mg/m3, particularly at high temperatures.
Vehicle washers using products containing white spirit showed
measured time-weighted average (TWA) exposures ranging from 5 to
465 mg/m3 for automobiles and 45 to 805 mg/m3 for heavy vehicles.
TWA measurements of between 90 and 210 mg/m3 were made in dry
cleaning plants using white spirit (Stoddard solvent). The highest
reported exposure concentration was for workers in airline hangars,
with a short-term value of up to 8860 mg/m3.
2.3 Kinetics and metabolism
White spirit vapour is readily absorbed by inhalation. In humans
59% of the aliphatic and alicyclic hydrocarbons and 70% of the
aromatic hydrocarbons were absorbed at a white spirit vapour level of
1000 mg/m3. The hydrocarbons are distributed from blood to other
tissues, and a human fat:blood partition coefficient of 47 has been
calculated. White spirit is widely distributed throughout the body in
humans. Experiments performed with single hydrocarbon exposure to
rats revealed higher brain:blood partition ratios for aliphatics and
alicyclics than for aromatic hydrocarbons.
White spirit is eliminated from the blood in a biphasic manner
after exposure. After an initial and very short distribution phase
with rapid elimination from the blood, a long phase with a
considerably slower elimination (half-life of about 46 h) follows.
Thus, white spirit has been detected in blood 66 h after a single
inhalation exposure. The half-life in adipose tissue has been
estimated to be 46-48 h.
Only sparse data on elimination and metabolism of white spirit
exist, but urinary excretion of metabolites and elimination of parent
compounds through expiration have been demonstrated in humans.
2.4 Effects on laboratory animals and in vitro systems
White spirit possesses low acute toxicity for mammals. Thus an
LC50 for rats was not achieved with 8-h exposure to 8200 mg/m3
(1400 ppm). In a group of four cats, all were killed at 10 000 mg/m3
(vapour and aerosols). The general signs were irritation, loss of
coordination, tremor and clonic spasms. No mortality was found after
oral administration (gavage) of 5000 mg/kg to rats. In rabbits loss
of appetite and hypoactivity followed a single dermal exposure of
2000-3000 mg/kg, and death occurred in 1 out of 16 exposed animals.
In skin irritation tests white spirit was determined to be a
slight to moderate irritant.
In short- and long-term toxicity studies on white spirit, the
central nervous system (CNS), respiratory system, liver and kidney
were generally found to be the target of white spirit toxicity.
Irritation of the respiratory tract has been observed following
inhalation exposure, and histopathological signs from irritation have
been observed in rats exposed nose-only to 4-h exposures for 4 days at
214 mg/m3.
Guinea-pigs were the most sensitive of five species tested with
long-term exposure. There was increased mortality following 90 days
of continuous exposure to levels of 363 mg/m3 or more. During
postmortem examinations pulmonary irritation was found.
Rats exposed to 4800 mg/m3, 8 h daily, for 26 weeks exhibited
reduced nerve conduction velocity in the tail axon. Neurobehavioural
tests indicated only mild effects and only immediately after a daily
exposure.
Rats exposed to 2290 and 4580 mg/m3, 6 h daily, for 3 weeks or 6
months were found to develop increases in the levels of catecholamines
and serotonine in the brain and reduced protein content in
synaptosomes isolated from the animals. No effects were noted in
neurobehavioural tests.
Neurophysiological recordings have shown changes in sensory
evoked potentials in the brain of rats measured 2 months after a
6-month period of exposure to either 2339 or 4679 mg/m3 (400 or
800 ppm) of dearomatized white spirit. Three weeks of exposure to
this solvent also resulted in increased levels of reactive oxygen
species in brain tissue from the rats.
In several inhalation studies, male rats developed the so-called
"alpha2-microglobulin nephropathy".
Repeated dermal exposure of rabbits caused reduction in weight
gain and liver toxicity at dose levels of 2000 mg/kg, given 3 times
weekly for 4 weeks.
There have been three developmental toxicity studies, all of
which reported essentially negative findings. However, insufficient
data are available for a comprehensive assessment.
White spirit was not found to be genotoxic in assays using
Salmonella typhimurium and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a mouse
lymphoma mutation assay, mouse and rat bone marrow cytogenic tests,
and rodent (rat and mouse) dominant lethal tests.
No carcinogenicity studies have been performed with experimental
animals exposed to white spirit. Related heavier and lighter refinery
distillation streams such as kerosene, straight-run and light
straight-run naphtha have induced skin tumours in mice after 80 weeks
of skin application.
2.5 Effects on humans
The odour threshold of white spirit is quite low, and vapours can
be detected at levels of 0.5-5 mg/m3. Tolerance of the odour may be
developed.
Eye irritation has been reported in connection with acute
exposure down to a level of 600 mg/m3 (100 ppm). At higher levels
respiratory irritation and more pronounced eye irritation occur.
Acute CNS symptoms such as headache, drunkenness, dizziness and
fatigue have been reported in several cases of occupational exposure.
Controlled 7-h exposure to levels of 600 mg/m3 or more resulted
in impaired balance during walking and to an increased reaction time.
Exposure to 4000 mg/m3 for 50 min resulted in impaired performance in
tests for perceptual speed and short-term memory.
One case of cyanosis, apnoea and cardiac arrest after excessive
inhalation exposure during painting has been reported.
Ingestion of white spirit has been reported to produce
gastrointestinal irritation with pain, vomiting and diarrhoea.
Lesions of the mucous membranes in the oesophagus and the
gastrointestinal tract followed the oral exposure.
Due to its low viscosity and low surface tension, white spirit
poses a risk of aspiration into the lungs following oral exposure. A
few ml of solvent aspirated into the lungs is able to produce serious
bronchopneumonia and 10-30 ml may be fatal.
Prolonged dermal exposure to white spirit, e.g., resulting from
wearing clothes that have been soaked or moistened by white spirit for
hours, may produce irritation and dermatitis.
Single cases of acute toxicity to the kidney, liver and bone
marrow have been reported following exposure to white spirit at high
levels. However, owing to lack of details and the sporadic nature of
the reportings, the relevance of these findings is unclear.
There have been few reports concerning the haematological or
biochemical effects of white spirit. However, clinical studies reveal
decreased erythrocyte, leucocyte and platelet counts, and increased
mean corpuscular volume in exposed workers. Similar haematological
changes have been observed in animal studies. There are no consistent
serum biochemical changes; reduced aspartate aminotransferase and
lactate dehydrogenase activity and elevated creatinine kinase activity
have been observed.
Numerous epidemiological studies have been performed involving
painters with long-term exposure to white spirit. Increased incidence
of complaints of memory impairment, fatigue, impaired concentration,
irritability, dizziness, headache, anxiety and apathy have been
demonstrated in several cross-sectional studies. Studies including
neuropsychological tests have shown impaired ability in performing
some of the tests. In some studies an overall reduction in cognitive
functioning was noted to a degree that corresponded to a diagnosis of
chronic toxic encephalopathy. In a few studies a dose-response
relationship was established. This was the case in a comprehensive
study in which painters predominantly exposed to white spirit were
compared with non-exposed bricklayers. Painters with low solvent
exposure were comparable to non-exposed bricklayers with regard to
neuropsychological test results. However, the prevalence of impaired
functioning increased with increasing exposure in the groups of
painters with medium and high exposure.
Similar complaints and neuropsychological test results, although
more severe, were reported from clinical studies in which painters
predominantly exposed to white spirit had been referred to
occupational medical clinics for detailed examinations because of
health complaints and suspected chronic toxic encephalopathy due to
the long-term solvent exposure.
In case-control studies, increased odds ratios for the award of
disability pension because of mental disturbances were found for
painters compared to other occupational groups not exposed to white
spirit or other solvents.
Several case-control studies have shown a high risk of
glomerulonephritis among painters. Even though cross-sectional
studies using early markers of nephropathy were inconclusive, they are
consistent with the hypothesis that painters have an increased risk of
glomerulonephritis and renal dysfunction.
Several minor studies concerning reproductive effects in humans
have been undertaken. In one of the most extensive studies,
reproductive parameters were compared between members of a union for
painters and members of a union for electricians. No firm conclusion
in this or in the other studies could be drawn as no significant
differences occurred. Nevertheless, there is a suggestion that
parental exposure to solvents may have an untoward effect on the
offspring. However, there is no adequately reported information
directly related to white spirit.
Few epidemiological studies of cancer in humans exposed solely to
white spirit are available. Increased risks of respiratory,
pancreatic and kidney cancer have been reported in three studies on
dry cleaners where white spirit was the predominant cleaning solvent.
For painters, an occupational group widely exposed to white spirit,
evidence has been found of increased cancer risks, particularly in the
lung and bladder.
There was no increase in sister-chromatid exchange in a group of
painters with long-term solvent exposure. However, there were some
small increases in cytogenetic damage in a small number of humans
exposed mainly to petroleum vapours.
2.6 Effects on other organisms in the laboratory and field
Few studies on the toxicity of white spirit to organisms other
than laboratory mammals have been reported.
Reports of inhibitory effects on growth of the fungus
Aspergillus niger have been made, although concentrations of the
white spirit in the growth medium were difficult to assess. No
effects were found on mycorrhizal fungi is a single study. Increased
oxygen uptake by excised plant root tips has been reported; the
significance of this finding is doubtful for actual exposure in the
field.
The few studies on the aquatic toxicity of white spirit and
related hydrocarbon mixtures indicate moderate toxicity to freshwater
and marine organisms. The toxicity is probably due to the dissolved
fraction and leads to 96-h LC50 values of the order of 0.5 to
5.0 mg/litre.
These results are likely to overestimate the effects of white
spirit in the field, given its volatility and lowered bioavailability
following sorption to soil/sediment.
3. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
3.1 Conclusions
White spirit has low acute toxicity by inhalation, dermal and
oral routes. However, acute exposure can lead to central nervous
system (CNS) depression resulting in lack of coordination and slowed
reactions. Exposure to very high concentrations in enclosed spaces
can lead to narcotic effects and loss of consciousness. Oral
ingestion presents a high aspiration hazard. Prolonged or repeated
skin exposure can result in severe irritant dermatitis.
Exposure to an average white spirit concentration of 240 mg/m3
(40 ppm) for more than 13 years could lead to chronic CNS effects.
White spirit is implicated in the development of "chronic toxic
encephalopathy" among house painters.
Owing to the volatility and low bioavailability of its
constituents, white spirit, although it is moderately toxic to aquatic
organisms, is unlikely to present significant hazards to the
environment.
3.2 Recommendations
a) In order to reduce exposure concentrations for the general
public and the occupationally exposed, paints based on white
spirit should only be used in adequately ventilated areas.
b) All practicable methods should be used to minimize exposure
of indoor painters to white spirit. Greater use should be
made of water-based and other paints.
4. HUMAN HEALTH HAZARDS, PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, EMERGENCY ACTION
4.1 Human health hazards, prevention and protection, first aid
The human health effects associated with exposure to white spirit
are summarized in section 2.5. They are also listed in the Summary of
Chemical Safety Information (section 6), along with preventive and
protective measures and first-aid recommendations.
4.1.1 Advice to physicians
Exposure to high vapour concentrations can lead to headache,
dizziness and fatigue. CNS depression may result in lack of
coordination and extended response time. Chest pain, cyanosis, apnoea
and cardiac arrest have been reported.
If white spirit is swallowed, droplets can enter the lungs and
cause pneumonitis. Symptoms usually take several hours to become
apparent and are aggravated by physical effort. Rest and observation
are therefore essential.
Following ingestion, vomiting should not be induced, because of
the danger of aspiration into the lungs. Gastric lavage should only be
given when aspiration into the lungs can be avoided by the use of a
cuffed endotracheal tube.
4.1.2 Health surveillance advice
Depending on the extent of exposure, regular medical check-ups
are advisable. Emphasis should be placed on examination of the
central nervous system function. However the skin should also be
examined since white spirit is a defatting agent and can cause
dermatitis on prolonged exposure.
Since white spirit may cause liver damage, a profile of liver
function should be obtained. Urinalysis should also be undertaken as
the kidneys may be affected by white spirit. A complete blood count
should be performed.
4.2 Explosion and fire hazards
White spirit is flammable and presents a moderate fire and
explosion risk, especially when exposed to heat or flame. Depending
on the grade, the flashpoint can lie between 21 and 55°C or higher.
Combustion results in the formation of carbon monoxide. White spirit
forms explosive air-vapour mixtures above 21°C.
Adequate ventilation should be provided and smoking prohibited.
Sealed machinery and explosion-proof electrical equipment should be
used.
Fire extinguishers containing powder, foam or carbon dioxide are
recommended. Containers should be kept cool by spraying with water.
4.3 Storage
White spirit should be stored in a well-ventilated cool area in
tightly closed fire-resistant clearly labelled containers. It should
be kept away from strong oxidants. No smoking should be allowed
whithin the storage area.
4.4 Transport
Containers should be in good condition and properly labelled, and
should be kept in a well-ventilated place, away from sources of
ignition. Transport should comply with national and international
requirements regarding the transport of flammable material.
4.5 Spillage and disposal
In the event of spillage, naked flames, sparks and heat should be
avoided. Protective clothing should be worn. Leaking liquid should
be collected in a sealable container. Spilled liquid should be
absorbed in sand or other inert absorbent and removed to a safe place.
White spirit should not be allowed to enter a sewer because of the
possibility of an explosion. If it has entered drains, the local
authorities should be informed.
The International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals
recommends disposal of terpentine as follows: "Spray into a furnace.
Incineration will become easier by mixing with a more flammable
solvent".
5. HAZARDS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT AND THEIR PREVENTION
Only as a result of spillage are substantial amounts of white
spirit likely to be found in the environment. However, most of the
constituent compounds evaporate fairly rapidly. The less volatile
constituents partition to soil and sediment; this lowers the
bioavailability and reduces the uptake by organisms.
White spirit is moderately toxic to aquatic organisms. There is
moderate potential for bioaccumulation but the tendency for bio-
concentration is probably low.
6. SUMMARY OF CHEMICAL SAFETY INFORMATION
This summary should be easily available to all health workers
concerned with, and users of, white spirit. It should be displayed
at, or near, entrances to areas where there is potential exposure to
white spirit and on processing equipment and containers. The summary
should be translated into the appropriate language(s). All persons
potentially exposed to the chemical should also have the instructions
in the summary clearly explained.
Space is available for insertion of the National Occupational
Exposure Limit, the address and telephone number of the National
Poison Control Centre, and local trade names.
SUMMARY OF CHEMICAL SAFETY INFORMATION
WHITE SPIRIT (STODDARD SOLVENT)
CAS registry numbers: 64742-82-1 (white spirit type 1)
64741-92-0 (white spirit type 2)
64742-48-9 (white spirit type 3)
64742-88-7 (white spirit type 0)
8052-41-3 (stoddard solvent)
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES (Regular grade) OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
Relative molecular mass 150 Clear colourless liquid with a characteristic
odour (odour threshold=0.5-5 mg/m3);
Initial boiling point (°C) 145-174 reacts with strong oxidants causing fire and
explosion hazards; attacks some forms of
Flash point (°C) 31-54 plastics, rubber and coatings
Autoignition temperature (°C) 240
Explosive limits 0.6-6.5
(% volume in air)
Relative density (15°C) 0.78
Relative vapour density 4.5-5
Vapour pressure (Pa at 20°C) 600
Volatility (n-butyl acetate=1) 0.15
Refractive index (20°C) 1.41-1.44
SUMMARY OF CHEMICAL SAFETY INFORMATION (Con't)
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES (Regular grade) OTHER CHARACTERISTICS
Viscosity (cps at 25°C) 0.74-1.65
Solubility in water (% by weight) < 0.1
HAZARDS/SYMPTOMS PREVENTION AND PROTECTION FIRST AID
EYES: Redness, irritation Wear safety goggles Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15
minutes (remove contact lenses if possible);
obtain medical attention
SKIN: Dry rough skin with small cracks; Avoid skin contact; wear protective clothing Remove contaminated clothes; wash skin with
defatting; possibility of severe irritant and gloves soap and plenty of water
dermatitis
INHALATION: Headache, nausea, fatigue, Ventilation, local exhaust or breathing Fresh air, rest, artificial respiration if
pulmonary irritation, dizziness, confusion, protection necessary; obtain medical attention
slowed reactions, unconsciousness
INGESTION: Sore throat, cough, headache, Do not eat, drink or smoke during work Rinse mouth; do NOT induce vomiting; obtain
nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, medical attention immediately
gastrointestinal irritation, diarrhoea;
aspiration in lungs can cause chemical
pneumonitis and be fatal
SUMMARY OF CHEMICAL SAFETY INFORMATION (Con't)
SPILLAGE STORAGE FIRE AND EXPLOSION
Ventilate area; collect leaking and spilled Keep in fire-proof place, separate from Flammable; explosive vapour/air mixtures may
liquid in sealable containers as far as strong oxidants be formed; in case of fire, keep containers
possible, absorb remaining liquid in sand cool by spraying with water; use powder, foam
or other inert absorbent and remove to or carbon dioxide to extinguish fire
safe place
WASTE DISPOSAL NATIONAL INFORMATION LABELLING
Incinerate National occupational exposure limit: United Nations Hazard Class: 3
National Poison Control Centre:
Local trade names:
7. CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES, AND STANDARDS
The information given in this section has been extracted from the
International Register of Potentially Toxic Chemicals (IRPTC) level
file. A full reference to the original national document from which
the information was extracted can be obtained from IRPTC. When no
effective date appears in the IRPTC legal file, the year of the
reference from which the data are taken is indicated by (r).
The reader should be aware that regulatory decisions about
chemicals, taken in a certain country, can only be fully understood in
the framework of the legislation of the country. Furthermore, the
regulations and guidelines of all countries are subject to change and
should always be verified with appropriate regulatory authorities
before application.
7.1 Previous evaluations by international bodies
IPCS (1982) evaluated petroleum solvents, including white spirit,
and drew attention to acute CNS effects (narcosis) resulting from
accidental inhalation of very high vapour concentrations and to
feelings of ill health resulting from excessive chronic exposure.
In 1986 the Nordic Expert Group for Documentation of Occupational
Exposure Limits concluded that the critical effects of white spirit
are irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes, and acute and chronic
CNS effects. It also noted that the risk of developing chronic toxic
encephalopathy following long-term exposure should be considered.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer evaluated certain
petroleum solvents, including white spirit, in 1989 and found these
solvents not classifiable with respect to their carcinogenicity to
humans (Group 3). There was inadequate evidence for carcinogenicity
in humans and no experimental animal data on white spirit were
available (IARC 1989a).
In 1994 the European Union classified white spirit, owing to the
aspiration risk, as harmful (Xn) and attached the risk phrase R22
(harmful if swallowed). This phrase may soon be replaced by phrase
R65 (harmful, it may cause lung damage if swallowed).
7.2 Exposure limit values
Some exposure limit values are given in the Current Regulations,
Guidelines and standards table.
7.3 Labelling, packaging and transport
The International Maritime Organization classified white spirit
as a category B substance, "a substance which is bioaccumulated with a
short retention time of the order of one week or less, or which is
liable to produce a tainting of sea food, or which is moderately toxic
to aquatic life. Discharge into the sea of white spirit, of ballast
water, tank washings or other residues or mixtures containing white
spirit shall be prohibited except where specific conditions are
satisfied".
The United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of
Dangerous Goods classified white spirit (terpentine substitute) as a
flammable liquid (Hazard Class 3). It adds the following special
provision:
"Packing Group according to grouping criteria for flammable
liquids. Substances not meeting the criteria of Packing Group I, II
or III are considered non-dangerous provided they do not meet the
definition of any other class or division".
European Economic Community legislation requires white spirit
(Stoddard solvent) to be labelled as a toxic substance, using the
symbol Xn.
The following label statements are required:
R 10 Flammable
R 22 Harmful if swallowed
S 45 In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical
advice immediately (show the label where possible)
S 53 Avoid exposure - obtain special instructions before use
CURRENT REGULATIONS, GUIDELINES AND STANDARDS
EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES
Medium Specification Country Exposure limit description Value Effective date
AIR Occupational Argentina Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) 1991
- Time-weighted average (TWA) 525 mg/m3
Australia Threshold limit value (TLV) 1991(r)
- Time-weighted average 790 mg/m3
Belgium Threshold limit value (TLV) 1991(r)
- Time-weight average 525 mg/m3
Canada Threshold limit value (TLV) 1991
- Time-weighted average 525 mg/m3
- Short-term exposure limit (STEL) 1050 mg/m3
Denmark Threshold limit value (TLV) 1994
- Time-weight average 145 mg/m3
Mexico Threshold limit value 1991
- Time-weighted average 525 mg/m3
USA Threshold limit value (TLV) 1991
(ACGIH) - Time-weighted average 525 mg/m3
USA Permissible exposure limit (PEL) 1989
(OSHA) - Time-weighted average 525 mg/m3
USA Recommended exposure limit (REL) 1977
(NIOSH) - Time-weighted average 350 mg/m3
- Ceiling value (15 min.) 1800 mg/m3
BIBLIOGRAPHY
ACGIH (1986) Documentation of the threshold limit values and
biological exposure indices. Cincinnati, American Conference of
Governmental Industrial Hygienists.
ACGIH (1989) Threshold limit values and biological exposure indices
for 1989-1990. Cincinnati, American Conference of Governmental
Industrial Hygienists.
CEC/IPCS (1981) International Chemical Safety Card 361 Stoddard
solvent. Luxembourg, Commission of the European Communities.
Clayton GD & Clayton FE (1981) Patty's industrial hygiene and
toxicology. Vol. 2B. New York, John Wiley & Sons.
Dutch Chemical Industry Association (1991) Chemical Safety sheets.
Kluwer Academic Publishers, Samson Chemical Publishers, Dutch
Institute for the Working Environment, Dutch Chemical Industry
Association.
Gosselin RE, Hodge, HC, Smith RP & Gleason MN (1976) Clinical
toxicology of commercial products. 4th ed. Baltimore, Maryland, The
William and Wilkins Company.
IARC (1989) Some petroleum solvents. In: Some organic solvents, resin
monomers and related compounds, pigments and occupational exposures in
paint manufacture and painting. Lyon, International Agency for
Research on Cancer, pp. 43-77 (IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of
Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, Volume 47).
IPCS (1982) Environmental Health Criteria 20: Selected petroleum
products. Geneva, World Health Organization.
IPCS (1996) Environmental Health Criteria 187: White spirit (Stoddard
solvent). Geneva, World Health Organization.
IRPTC (1992-1993) Legal file. Geneva, International Register of
Potentially Toxic Chemicals.
Sax NI (1984) Dangerous properties of industrial materials. New York,
Van Nostrand Reinhold Company.
US NIOSH (1976) A guide to industrial respiratory protection. 3 Vol.
Cincinnati, Ohio, US National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.
US NIOSH/OSHA (1981) Occupational health guidelines for chemical
hazards. 3 Vol. Washington DC, US Department of Health and Human
Services, US Department of Labour (Publication No. DHHS (NIOSH)
01-123).
US NIOSH/OSHA (1985) Pocket guide to chemical hazards. Washington DC,
US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (Publication No. 85.114).