Standard Operating Procedures
Laboratory Specific
Chemical: 1,4-Dioxane
Please fill out the form completely. Print a copy and insert into your
Laboratory Safety Manual and Chemical Hygiene Plan.
Refer to instructions for assistance.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Department:________________________
Date when SOP was written:_______
Date when SOP was approved by the lab supervisor: ___________________
Principal Investigator:___________________________________________________
Internal Laboratory Safety Coordinator/Lab Manager:___________________________________
Laboratory Phone:____________________ Office Phone:_____________________
Emergency Contact:____________________________________________________
(Name and Phone Number)
Location(s) covered by this SOP:__________________________________________
(Building/Room Number)
_____________________________________________________________________________
Type of SOP:
Process
Hazardous Chemical
Hazardous Class
Purpose
1,4-Dioxane is a select carcinogen and a peroxide former. Like some other ethers, dioxane
combines with atmospheric oxygen on standing to form explosive peroxides. Distillation of
dioxane concentrates these peroxides, thus increasing the danger. If not stored and handled
properly, this can pose a serious threat to the health and safety of laboratory personnel,
emergency responders and chemical waste handlers. Hence, it is important to follow safety
protocols to handle this chemical.
Uses: 1,4-Dioxane (dioxane), a cyclic ether, is used as a degreasing agent, as a component of
paint and varnish removers, and as a wetting and dispersion agent in the textile industry. Dioxane
is used as a solvent in chemical synthesis, as a fluid for scintillation counting, and as a
dehydrating agent in the preparation of tissue sections for histology.
Physical & Chemical Properties/Definition of Chemical Group
Class: Select Carcinogen & Peroxide Forming Chemical (PFC)
CAS #: 123-91-1
Synonyms: Dioxane, Diethylene oxide
Formula: C4H8O2
Molecular Weight: 88.11 g/mol
Appearance: Form – liquid
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Color: Colorless
Safety data
pH 6.0 - 8 at 500 g/l at 20 °C (68 °F)
Melting point/range: 10 - 12 °C (50 - 54 °F) - lit.
Boiling point: 100 - 102 °C (212 - 216 °F) - lit.
Flash point: 12 °C (54 °F) - closed cup
Ignition temperature: 180 °C (356 °F)
Autoignition temperature: No data available
Lower Explosion Limit (LEL) 2 % (V)
Upper Explosion Limit (UEL) 22 % (V)
Vapor pressure: 36 hPa (27 mmHg) at 20 °C (68 °F)
53 hPa (40 mmHg) at 25.20 °C (77.36 °F)
Density: 1.034 g/cm3 at 25 °C (77 °F)
Water solubility: Completely miscible
Partition coefficient n-octanol/water: log Pow: -0.27
Relative vapor density: 3.04 - (Air = 1.0)
Emergency Overview
OSHA Hazards
Flammable liquid, Target Organ Effect, Irritant, Carcinogen, May form explosive peroxides.
Flammable liquid, Carcinogen, Target Organ Effect, Irritant
Target Organs
Liver, Kidney, Central nervous system
Other hazards which do not result in classification
May form explosive peroxides.
GHS Classification
Flammable liquids (Category 2)
Acute toxicity, Oral (Category 5)
Acute toxicity, Inhalation (Category 5)
Eye irritation (Category 2A)
Carcinogenicity (Category 2)
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure (Category 3)
Chronic aquatic toxicity (Category 4)
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Signal word: Danger
Hazard statement(s)
H225 Highly flammable liquid and vapor
H303 + H333 May be harmful if swallowed or if inhaled.
H319 Causes serious eye irritation.
H335 May cause respiratory irritation.
H351 Suspected of causing cancer.
H413 May cause long lasting harmful effects to aquatic life.
Precautionary statement(s)
P210 Keep away from heat/sparks/open flames/hot surfaces. - No smoking.
P261 Avoid breathing dust/ fume/ gas/mist/ vapors/spray
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P281 Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as required.
P305 + P351 + P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove
contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
HMIS Classification
Health hazard: 2
Flammability: 3
Physical hazards: 0
NFPA Rating
Health hazard: 2
Fire: 3
Reactivity Hazard: 0
Potential Hazards/Toxicity
This product is or contains a component that has been reported to be possibly carcinogenic
based on its IARC, ACGIH, NTP, or EPA classification.
IARC: 2B - Group 2B: Possibly carcinogenic to humans (1,4-Dioxane)
NTP: Reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen (1,4-Dioxane)
OSHA: No component of this product present at levels greater than or equal to 0.1% is identified
as a carcinogen or potential carcinogen by OSHA.
Potential Health Effects
Inhalation May be harmful if inhaled. Causes respiratory tract irritation
Skin May be harmful if absorbed through skin. Causes skin irritation.
Eyes Causes eye irritation.
Ingestion May be harmful if swallowed.
Basic Training Requirements

Lab personnel working with 1,4-dioxane must have attended the ‘Lab Safety
Fundamental Concepts’ (LSFC) classroom training offered by EH&S. Please refer to the
link below for training schedule and enrollment information:
http://map.ais.ucla.edu/go/1003938#Laboratory_Safety

Lab personnel working with 1,4-dioxane must read and sign this SOP on the last page.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Respiratory protection
General guidelines: Respirators should be used only under any the following circumstances:
 As a last line of defense (i.e., after engineering and administrative controls have been
exhausted).
 When Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) has exceeded or when there is a possibility
that PEL will be exceeded.
 Regulations require the use of a respirator.
 An employer requires the use of a respirator.
 There is potential for harmful exposure due to an atmospheric contaminant (in the
absence of PEL)
 As PPE in the event of a chemical spill clean-up process
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Lab personnel intending to use/wear a respirator mask must be trained and fit-tested by EH&S.
This is a regulatory requirement. (http://map.ais.ucla.edu/go/1004655)
Hand protection
Handle with butyl gloves.
http://www.ansellpro.com/download/Ansell_8thEditionChemicalResistanceGuide.pdf
Gloves must be inspected prior to use.
Use proper glove removal technique (without touching glove's outer surface) to avoid skin contact
with 1,4-dioxane.
Wash and dry hands.
Eye protection
Safety goggles.
Skin and body protection
Fire/flame resistant lab coat (100% cotton based)
Cotton based clothing/attire.
Full length pants or equivalent
Close toed shoes
Hygiene measures
Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing.
Wash hands before breaks and immediately after handling 1,4-dioxane.
Additionally, please refer to http://www.adminpolicies.ucla.edu/pdf/905.pdf
Engineering Controls

All operations involving 1,4-dioxane must be carried out in a certified chemical fume
hood (certified once every year by EH&S).

Chemical fume hoods used as containment areas for Particularly Hazardous Substances
(Select Carcinogens, Regulated Carcinogens, Reproductive Toxins and Acute Toxins)
must have a face velocity of 100 ft/min averaged over the face of the fume hood.

Laboratory rooms must be at negative pressure with respect to the corridors and external
environment. To achieve this, the laboratory/room door must be kept closed at all times.
First Aid Procedures
General advice
Consult a physician. Show this safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance. Move out of
dangerous area.
If inhaled
If breathed in, move person into fresh air. If not breathing, give artificial respiration. Consult a
physician.
In case of skin contact
Wash off with soap and plenty of water. Consult a physician.
In case of eye contact
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician.
If swallowed
Do NOT induce vomiting. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Rinse mouth
with water. Consult a physician.
Special Handling and Storage Requirements
NOTE: Mark each 1,4-dioxane container with the Receiving and Opening date.
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
All 1,4-dioxane containers must be stored using secondary container (tray/tub) with
proper signage/caution label.

Hazard communication: Warning/Caution label is required on each 1,4-dioxane
container, secondary containment, designated storage cabinets. Warning/Caution
label must state the following:
“CARCINOGEN or CANCER HAZARD or SUSPECT CANCER AGENT”
Precautions for safe handling
Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid inhalation of vapor or mist.
Keep away from sources of ignition (such as Bunsen burners). Take measures to prevent the
build-up of electrostatic charge.
Conditions for safe storage
Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened
must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage.
Chemical stability
Stable under recommended storage conditions.
Possibility of hazardous reactions
Vapors may form explosive mixture with air.
Conditions to avoid
Heat, flames and sparks. Extremes of temperature and direct sunlight.
Materials to avoid
Oxygen, Oxidizing agents, Halogens, Reducing agents, Perchlorates, Trimethylaluminum
Hazardous decomposition products
Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions. - Carbon oxides
Other decomposition products - no data available
Spill and Accident Procedure
Fire Fighting Measures (Extinguishing Media)
Conditions of flammability
Flammable in the presence of a source of ignition when the temperature is above the flash point.
Keep away from heat/sparks/open flame/hot surface. No smoking.
Suitable extinguishing media
Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical or carbon dioxide.
Special protective equipment for fire-fighters
Wear self-contained breathing apparatus for fire-fighting if necessary.
Hazardous combustion products
Hazardous decomposition products formed under fire conditions. - Carbon oxides
Further information
Use water spray to cool unopened containers.
Chemical Spill Dial 911 and x59797
Accidental Release
Personal precautions
Use personal protective equipment. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate
ventilation. Remove all sources of ignition. Evacuate personnel to safe areas. Beware of vapors
accumulating to form explosive concentrations. Vapors can accumulate in low areas.
Environmental precautions
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Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains.
Spill – Help contaminated or injured persons. Evacuate the spill area. Avoid breathing vapors.
Eliminate sources of ignition if the chemical is flammable. If possible, confine the spill to a small
area using a spill kit or absorbent material. Keep others from entering contaminated area (e.g.,
use caution tape, barriers, etc.).
Small (<1 L) – If you have training, you may assist in the clean-up effort. Use appropriate
personal protective equipment and clean-up material for chemical spilled. Double bag spill waste
in clear plastic bags, label and take to the next chemical waste pick-up.
Large (>1 L) – Dial 911 (or 310-825-1491 from cell phone) and EH&S at x59797 for
assistance.
Chemical Spill on Body or Clothes – Remove clothing and rinse body thoroughly in
emergency shower for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention. Notify supervisor and EH&S
at x59797 immediately.
Chemical Splash Into Eyes – Immediately rinse eyeball and inner surface of eyelid with
water for 15 minutes by forcibly holding the eye open. Seek medical attention. Notify supervisor
and EH&S at x59797 immediately.
Medical Emergency Dial 911 or x52111
Life Threatening Emergency, After Hours, Weekends And Holidays – Dial 911
(or 310-825-1491 from cell phone) or contact the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center
(emergency room) directly at x52111 (located at 757 Westwood Plaza, enter from Gayley
Avenue). Note: All serious injuries must be reported to EH&S at x59797 within 8 hours.
Non-Life Threatening Emergency– Go to the Occupational Health Facility (OHF),
x56771, CHS room 67-120 (This is on the 6th floor, 7th corridor, room 120. Enter through the
School of Dentistry on Tiverton Drive and proceed to the “O” elevator to the 6th floor.)Hours: M F, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. At all other times report to Ronald Regan UCLA Medical Center
(emergency room) at x52111. Note: All serious injuries must be reported to EH&S at x59797
within 8 hours.
Needle stick/puncture exposure (as applicable to chemical handling procedure)– Wash
the affected area with antiseptic soap and warm water for 15 minutes. For mucous membrane
exposure, flush the affected area for 15 minutes using an eyewash station. Page the needle stick
nurse by dialing 231 from a campus phone, enter 93333 when prompted and then enter your
extension. Hours: M – F, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. At all other times report to Ronald Regan UCLA
Medical Center (emergency room) at x52111. Note: All needle stick/puncture exposures must be
reported to EH&S at x59797 within 8 hours.
Decontamination/Waste Disposal Procedure
NOTE: Dispose of 1,4-dioxane container before the expiration date as marked by the
manufacturer on the container, or, within 1 year from the date of opening, whichever is sooner.
General hazardous waste disposal guidelines:
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
Label Waste
o Affix an on-line hazardous waste tag on all waste containers using the Online
Tag Program http://otp.ucop.edu/ as soon as the first drop of waste is added to
the container
Store Waste
o Store hazardous waste in closed containers, in secondary containment and in a
designated location
o Double-bag dry waste using transparent bags
http://map.ais.ucla.edu/go/1002774
o Waste must be under the control of the person generating & disposing of it
Dispose of Waste
o Dispose of regularly generated chemical waste within 90 days
o Call EH&S at x61887 for questions
o Empty Containers
 Dispose as hazardous waste if it once held extremely hazardous waste
(irrespective of the container size)
http://ehs.ucla.edu/Pub/ExtremelyHazardousWaste.pdf
o Consult waste pick-up schedule
http://ehs.ucla.edu/pub/HazWaste%20Pickup%20Schedule.pdf
o Prepare for transport to pick-up location
 Check on-line waste tag
 Write date of pick-up on the waste tag
 Use secondary containment
 Wear eye protection & closed toe shoes; bring gloves
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) Location
(State the location of MSDS)
Hardcopy and electronic copy must be available for 1,4-dioxane.
Online MSDS can be accessed at http://msds.ehs.ucla.edu.
Protocol/Procedure
(Add specific description of procedure)
Any deviation from this SOP requires approval from PI.
Documentation of Training (signature of all users is required)

Prior to conducting any work with 1,4-dioxane, designated personnel must provide training to
his/her laboratory personnel specific to the hazards involved in working with this substance,
work area decontamination, and emergency procedures.

The Principal Investigator must provide his/her laboratory personnel with a copy of this SOP
and a copy of the 1,4-dioxane MSDS provided by the manufacturer.

The Principal Investigator must ensure that his/her laboratory personnel have attended
appropriate laboratory safety training or refresher training within the last two years.
I have read and understand the content of this SOP:
Name
Signature
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Date