Why is xylene toxic?

CNS toxicity may be due to the liposolubility of xylene in the neuronal membrane. It has been suggested that xylene interferes with the normal function of neuronal proteins. It has also been suggested that the toxicity of xylene may be due to some of its metabolic intermediates.

Is xylene a carcinogen?

Both the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and EPA have found that there is insufficient information to determine whether or not xylene is carcinogenic and consider xylene not classifiable as to its human carcinogenicity.

What safety precautions should be used when working with xylene?

What Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is needed when working with xylene? Eye/Face Protection: Wear chemical safety goggles. A face shield (with safety goggles) may also be necessary. Skin Protection: Wear chemical protective clothing e.g. gloves, aprons, boots.

How much xylene is toxic?

ACGIH: The threshold limit value (TLV) is 100 ppm averaged over an 8-hour workshift and 150 ppm as a STEL (short-term exposure limit).

Is xylene toxic to dogs?

These simple compounds can be poisonous to dogs if consumed, namely the refined petroleum products. Refined petroleum products are the aliphatic hydrocarbons which include butane, gasoline, methane, and propane, and aromatic hydrocarbons which include xylene, toluene, and benzene.

Is xylene bad for your health?

Exposure to xylene can irritate the eyes, nose, skin, and throat. Xylene can also cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, loss of muscle coordination, and in high doses, death. Workers may be harmed from exposure to xylene. The level of exposure depends upon the dose, duration, and work being done.

Can xylene cause leukemia?

Studies have shown that chronic occupational exposure to xylene is associated with severe hematological effects, and can lead to thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, anemia, and may lead to forms of leukemia.

What is the function of xylene?

Xylene’s powerful solvent properties are used in printing, rubber and leather processing. Xylene is a component of lubricants in motor oil, paints and paint thinners, polishes, waxes, antifreeze, sealants, adhesives, and even gasoline and cigarettes. Xylene is used in some glue. Xylene is also used as a cleaner.

Is xylene a good cleaner?

It Is a Powerful Solvent Because it is made from petroleum, Xylene is especially good at cleaning up oil-based products like paint, wood stain, and other synthetic products, without damaging the surfaces they are on.

What are the safety hazards of toluene?

Safety Hazards Associated with Toluene. Toluene is a highly flammable liquid and it can cause mild damage to the skin and the eyes. However, the most-common hazard associated with this chemical is inhalation. Products containing toluene can produce dangerous fumes which can cause nausea, headaches, unconsciousness, and even death if inhaled.

Is xylol vapor dangerous?

Inhalation of xylene or xylene vapor is the most dangerous type of exposure to this chemical. The most common side effect of inhaled xylene is depression of the central nervous system causing dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting.

Is xylene toxic?

Ingestion. If xylene is inadvertently ingested or swallowed, it can be slightly toxic to the human body. Ingestion of xylene will cause a depression of the central nervous system resulting in dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Aspiration of xylene into the lungs during ingestion or vomiting can result in very serious health consequences.