Standard Operating Procedure
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Read the EH&S Standard Operating Procedures Fact Sheet before filling out this form.
Print out the completed form and keep a readily accessible hard copy in the lab (also
keeping an electronic copy is highly recommended).
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Date:
November 19, 2010
SOP Title:
Thallium Containing Compounds
Principal Investigator:
Dr. Richmond Sarpong
Room and Building:
841A Latimer Hall
Lab Phone Number:
510-643-2485
Section 1 – Process
Section 2 – Hazardous Chemicals
Thallium containing compounds are highly toxic and should be used with extreme care. (HMIS Health
Hazard 3-4). Can be fatal if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through the skin. See Section 3 - Potential
Hazards.
Specifically, our lab currently has: thallium(I) ethoxide, thallium(III) acetate, thallium(III) nitrate
trihydrate
Section 3 – Potential Hazards
Target organs include: nerves, cardiovascular system, eyes, skin, liver, kidney, male reproductive system. .
May cause eye irritation or respiratory tract irritation if inhaled. Thallium is very water soluble and is
readily absorbed through the skin. Many thallium-containing compounds are suspected carcinogens.
Can be fatal if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through the skin.
Some thallium-containing compounds are unstable to aqueous conditions and strong oxidizers and
acids. Consult MSDS sheets for information about any specific compound.
Section 4 – Approvals Required
No specific group training required. Consult SOP and MSDS for usage of any thallium containing
compound.
Section 5 – Designated Area
Thallium containing compounds should only be used in the fume hood.
Section 6 – Special Handling Procedures and Storage Requirements
Air-purifying respirators are sometimes used with thallium containing compounds where risk
assessment shows that it is appropriate. (see MDSD for specific compound in question)
Handle with gloves. Gloves must be inspected prior to use. Use proper glove removal technique (do
not touch gloves outer surface while removing). Dispose of gloves in proper contaminated laboratory
waste bin.
Eye protection must be used.
Lab coats are required for use. Complete body suit may be used to protect skin while handling.
Thoroughly wash hands immediately after use.
Section 7 – Personal Protective Equipment
Lab coat, gloves, and goggles must be used while using thallium-containing compounds.
Section 8 – Engineering/Ventilation Controls
Keep work with thallium-containing compounds in the fume hood since inhalation is deleterious.
Section 9 – Spill and Accident Procedures
In the case of a spill, prevent further leakage if it is safe to do so. Do not let the product enter drains.
Sweep up and shovel solid material. Avoid creating dust while doing this. Wet-sweep remaining small
particles. Dispose of waste according to university policy. See Section 10 – Waste Disposal.
While cleaning the spill, appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn. If inhaled move
victim to fresh air. If skin or eye contact occurs, wash affected area with soap and water and take victim
immediately to the hospital.
Section 10 – Waste Disposal
Thallium-containing compounds can be disposed of according to university policy. If dissolved in
water and disposed of in liquid hazardous waste, the bottle must be labeled to reflect the trace amount
of thallium.
Section 11 - Decontamination
All contaminated clothing must be removed since absorption through skin is facile. Contaminated lab
coats must be cleaned using the lab cleaning service. Contaminated gloves must be removed using
proper glove removal technique (do not touch gloves outer surface while removing) and disposed of in
proper contaminated laboratory waste bin.
Section 12 – Process Steps
Process Steps
Safety Measures
Training Documentation
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