UCSF Lab Standard Operating Procedure
Chemical Process, Name or Hazard Class:
Vinyl Chloride (Monomer)
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☒Hazardous Chemical
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Purpose
Vinyl Chloride (Monomer) is a regulated carcinogen. It is highly toxic, flammable and carcinogenic. Vinyl
chloride is a colorless flammable gas that evaporates very quickly. Higher than normal levels of vinyl chloride
may be present inside new cars as the chemical evaporates from new vinyl products. Vinyl chloride can be
formed in the environment when soil organisms break down "chlorinated" solvents. In the environment, the
highest levels of vinyl chloride are found in air around factories producing vinyl products. Vinyl chloride that
is released by industries or formed by the breakdown of other chlorinated chemicals can enter the air and
drinking water supplies. Vinyl chloride is a common contaminant found near landfills. Vinyl chloride is a
chemical intermediate, not a final product. Due to the hazardous nature of vinyl chloride to human health,
there are no end products that use vinyl chloride in its monomer form. Vinyl chloride liquid is fed to
polymerization reactors where it is converted from a monomer to a polymer PVC. The final product of the
polymerization process is PVC in either a flake or pellet form. From its flake or pellet form PVC is sold to
companies that heat and mold the PVC into end products such as PVC pipe and bottles. Tens of billions of
pounds of PVC are sold on the global market each year. Vinyl Chloride is used to make polyvinyl chloride
(PVC) pipes, wire coatings, vehicle upholstery, and plastic kitchen ware.
Physical & Chemical Properties/Definition of Chemical Group
CAS#: 75-01-4
Class: Toxic, carcinogen
Vinyl Chloride (Monomer)
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Modified from SOP templates developed by UCLA EH&S (http://www.sop.ehs.ucla.edu/)
Molecular Formula: C2ClH3
Form (physical state): Compressed, liquefied gas
Color: Colorless
Boiling point: 7 F (-14 C)
Potential Hazards/Toxicity
Inhalation: Several minutes of exposure to high, but attainable concentrations (over 1000 ppm) may cause
central nervous system depression with effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, disorientation, tingling,
numbness or burning sensation of the hands and feet, impaired vision, nausea, headache, difficulty breathing,
cardiac arrhythmias, unconsciousness, or even death.
Skin contact: May cause irritation. Rapid evaporation of the material may cause frostbite.
Eye contact: May cause irritation. Rapid evaporation of the material may cause frostbite.
Chronic Effects: Causes damage to the liver, musculoskeletal system, and peripheral nervous system through
prolonged or repeated exposure.
Interaction with Other Chemicals Which Enhance Toxicity: Alcohol may enhance toxic effects
Medical Conditions Aggravated by Exposure: Hepatitis B infection
OSHA lists Vinyl Chloride Monomer (VCM) as a Class IA Flammable Liquid, with an NFPA Flammability Rating
of 4. Because of its low boiling point, liquid VCM will undergo flash evaporation (i. e., auto-refrigerate) upon
its release to atmospheric pressure. The portion vaporized will form a dense cloud (more than twice as heavy
as the surrounding air). The risk of subsequent explosion or fire is significant. According to OSHA, the flash
point of VCM is -78 C (-108 F). Its flammable limits in air are: lower 3.6 volume % and upper 33.0 volume %.
Fire may release toxic hydrogen chloride (HCl) and carbon monoxide (CO).
Engineering Controls
Vinyl chloride (monomer) should be used in a glove box filled with inert gas, or in a closed system in a
certified fume hood.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Respiratory Protection
If lab personnel would like to use respirator on a voluntary basis, they must be trained and fit-tested by
EH&S. This is a regulatory requirement. (http://or.ucsf.edu/ehs/8193-DSY/version/default/part/4/data/)
Hand Protection
For the gas: Wear appropriate chemical resistant gloves.
For the liquid: Wear chemical resistant, insulated gloves such as Perfect Fit(R) NL-56. Gloves should be
selected based on permeation test data.
NOTE: Consult with your preferred glove manufacturer to ensure that the gloves you plan on using are
compatible with Vinyl Chloride (Monomer).
Vinyl Chloride (Monomer)
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Modified from SOP templates developed by UCLA EH&S (http://www.sop.ehs.ucla.edu/)
Refer to glove selection chart from the links below:
http://www.ansellpro.com/download/Ansell_8thEditionChemicalResistanceGuide.pdf
OR
http://www.allsafetyproducts.biz/page/74172
OR
http://www.showabestglove.com/site/default.aspx
OR
http://www.mapaglove.com/
Eye Protection
Wear safety glasses with side-shields. If eye contact is likely, wear chemical resistant safety goggles. Provide
an emergency eye wash fountain and quick drench shower in the immediate work area (accessible within 10
seconds).
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
As with all chemicals, avoid getting Vinyl Chloride IN YOU. Do not eat or drink while handling chemicals. Be
aware of any signs of exposure.
First Aid Procedures
If inhaled
If adverse effects occur, remove to uncontaminated area. Give artificial respiration if not breathing. If
breathing is difficult, oxygen should be administered by qualified personnel. If respiration or pulse has
stopped, have a trained person administer basic life support (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation and/or
Automatic External Defibrillator) and CALL FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES IMMEDIATELY
In case of skin contact
If frostbite or freezing occur, immediately flush with plenty of lukewarm water (100-105 F, 38-41 C). GET
MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY.
In case of eye contact
Immediately flush eyes with a directed stream of water for at least 15 minutes, forcibly holding eyelids apart
to ensure complete irrigation of all eye and lid tissues. Washing eyes within several seconds is essential to
achieve maximum effectiveness. GET MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY.
If swallowed
Not a likely route of exposure.
Special Handling and Storage Requirements
Reactivity/ Stability: Stable at normal temperatures and pressures.
Conditions to Avoid: Avoid air and sunlight. Avoid heat, flames, sparks and other sources of ignition.
Containers may rupture or explode if exposed to heat.
Incompatibilities/Materials to Avoid: Oxidizing agents, Oxides of nitrogen, Metals, Aluminum, Aluminum
alloys, Copper, Metal alkyl complexes and alkali metals such as sodium, potassium and their alloys.
Vinyl Chloride (Monomer)
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Modified from SOP templates developed by UCLA EH&S (http://www.sop.ehs.ucla.edu/)
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Oxides of carbon, Chlorine, Hydrogen chloride, Phosgene. Hazardous
Polymerization: Polymerization can occur. Avoid elevated temperatures, oxidizing agents, oxides of
nitrogen, oxygen, peroxides, other polymerization catalysts/initiators, air and sunlight.
Storage Conditions: Keep container tightly closed and properly labeled. Store in a cool, dry area. Store in a
well-ventilated area. Do not enter confined spaces unless adequately ventilated. Avoid heat, flames, sparks
and other sources of ignition. May be subject to storage regulations: U.S. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.106.
Handling Procedures: Avoid breathing vapor or mist. Avoid contact with skin, eyes and clothing. Keep
away from heat, sparks and flame. Ground any equipment used in handling. Use non-sparking tools and
equipment. All energized electrical equipment must be designed in accordance with the electrical
classification of the area.
Spill and Accident Procedure
Chemical Spill Dial 9-911 from campus phone or 415-476-1414 from cell phone or 415-2068522 (SFGH only)
Spill – Assess the extent of danger. Assist contaminated or injured persons. Evacuate the spill area.
Avoid breathing vapors. 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 9-911 from campus phone or 415-476-1414 from cell phone or 415-2068522 (SFGH only) for assistance.
Chemical Spill on Body or Clothes – Remove clothing and rinse body thoroughly in emergency
shower for at least 15 minutes. If discomfort persists, proceed to the Emergency Department. If no
further discomfort is experienced, have the SDS ready and contact Poison Control Hotline at 1-800222-1222 for further exposure information. Notify your direct supervisor and EH&S at 415-4761300 during work hours, or 9-911 during non-working hours and weekends.
Chemical Splash Into Eyes – Immediately rinse eyeball and inner surface of eyelid with water for
15 minutes by forcibly holding the eye open. If discomfort persists, proceed to the Emergency
Department. If no further discomfort is experienced, have the SDS ready and contact Poison
Control Hotline at 1-800-222-1222 for further exposure information. Notify your direct
supervisor and EH&S at 415-476-1300 during work hours, or 9-911 during non-working
hours and weekends.
Medical Emergency Dial 9-911 (campus phone) or 476-6911 (cell phone)
Note: All serious injuries must be reported to EH&S at 415-476-1300 within 8 hours.
Vinyl Chloride (Monomer)
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Modified from SOP templates developed by UCLA EH&S (http://www.sop.ehs.ucla.edu/)
Non-Life Threatening Emergency– Go to Occupational Health Programs (OHP) Clinic, 415-8857580, 2330 Post Street, Suite 460 Hours of Operation for Appointments: Monday - Friday
7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (except Holidays).
Note: All serious injuries must be reported to EH&S at 415-476-1300 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 415-353-7842 (STIC).
Decontamination/Waste Disposal Procedure
Clean contaminated surfaces with soap and water and paper towels. Dispose of the paper towels as
hazardous waste.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Location
Online SDS can be accessed at http://or.ucsf.edu/ehs/7241-DSY/msds.html
Protocol/Procedure
Quantities covered by this SOP:
______ (g , ml) to _______ (g, ml)
Temperature range covered by this SOP:
__ °C – __ °C
General Overview and Purpose:
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Procedure:
Enter experimental procedure. You can copy procedure from your lab notebook or from literature.
NOTE
Any deviation from this SOP requires approval from the Principal Investigator.
Vinyl Chloride (Monomer)
5
Date: Click here to enter a date.
Modified from SOP templates developed by UCLA EH&S (http://www.sop.ehs.ucla.edu/)