Working Safely With Solvents

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Copyright © 2009 Rathi Niyogi


Solvents are commonly found in many workplaces. They are used so often that workers forget that they can be very dangerous when not handled appropriate.

Loosely defined, a solvent is a substance, usually a liquid, that is used to dissolve another substance. Solvents can pose a number of health risks as a result of skin contact with the solvents or from inhalation of vapors from the solvent. Also, improperly handled or stored solvents can present risks of fire and explosion.

Health Effects

One of the most common health hazards associated with exposure to solvents is dermatitis. Contact dermatitis can develop from a single exposure or from multiple exposures. It can leave the skin susceptible to a short-term infection or to a chronic condition. Exposure can also result in sensitization to the solvent, which is a delayed allergic reaction that often becomes more severe with subsequent exposures (for this reason, it is important that workers wear the appropriate protective equipment, such as chemical protective gloves, each and every time they handle solvents). In order to prevent dermatitis, workers handling solvents need to wear chemical protective gloves such as neoprene gloves or nitrile gloves (remember to always check glove manufacturer information to verify chemical compatibility for chemical protective gloves). Also, if there is a risk of splash, coveralls or an apron and eye protection, such as goggles or safety glasses with face shields, should be used.

Solvents can also present respiratory hazards as the result of the inhalation of vapors. Depending on the type and concentration of the solvent, exposure effects can range from mild respiratory irritation to severe damage to body organs and systems. In extreme cases, overexposure to solvent vapors can cause respiratory failure and death. In order to prevent injury resulting from solvents, respiratory protection should be worn. To determine the correct respiratory protection (generally, air-purifying respirators with the appropriate cartridges will be required), check the material safety data sheet (MSDS) for the solvent. As with dermatitis, because of the possibility of sensitization with some solvents, appropriate respiratory protection should be worn each and every time a worker is exposed to actionable respiratory levels of solvents. (Note: Prior to requiring respiratory protection when using solvents, make sure that you have instituted an appropriate respiratory protection program, including fit testing, medical evaluation, and training in the use of the types of respirator that will be used by the worker.)

Handling And Storage

Because solvents are often petroleum- or alcohol-based, they can pose a risk of fire and explosion. For this reason, it is important to ensure that solvents are stored and handled properly, including:

Read the labels and the material safety data sheets of the solvents. They list the hazards, health effects, and safe handling procedures as well as information on the flashpoint and boiling point of the solvent (which help to determine the risks for fire and explosion).

Take care when pouring solvents from one container to another since fire or explosions can occur from static electricity buildup. Utilize safety cans that incorporate grounding and spill prevention features to help reduce the potential for accidents.

Clean up solvent spills promptly and thoroughly.

Prohibit welding, cutting, soldering, and other sources of ignition in areas where solvents are used.

Store flammable solvents in well-ventilated areas constructed of fire-resistant materials. For smaller quantities of solvents, flammables cabinets are a good storage options (and in many instances are required by local or state building codes). Properly constructed flammable storage cabinets help to prevent solvent spills and, when properly vented, build up of dangerous vapors.

Ground and bond all tanks and equipment used for solvent storage.

Install fire extinguishers in both work and storage areas. For most solvents, ABC fire extinguishers or B fire extinguishers should be available. Water-only fire extinguishers are not appropriate for use on solvent-related fires as they may spread the fire. (And remember that all workers who are expected to utilize a fire extinguisher in the event of a fire must receive appropriate instruction in the use of fire extinguisher!)

About the Author:
Rathi Niyogi is the CEO of CriticalTool, a national distributor of Safety Equipment, such as chemical protective gloves, goggles, face shields, respiratory protection, safety cans, flammables cabinets, and fire extinguishers. If you thought this article was helpful, additional information on storing flammables can be found at http://www.criticaltool.com/storing-flammable-liquids.html


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