Standard Operating Procedures
Laboratory Specific
Chemical: Ethylene Dibromide (EDB) OR 1,2-Dibromoethane
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
Ethylene Dibromide (EDB) OR 1,2-Dibromoethane is a Cal-OSHA regulated carcinogen, as well
as a reproductive toxin.
Uses: The once-dominant use, although one that has faded, is as an additive in leaded
gasoline. 1,2-Dibromoethane reacts with lead residues to generate volatile lead bromides. It has
been used as a pesticide in soil and on various crops. The applications were initiated after the
forced retirement of 1,2-dibromo-3-chloropropane (DBCP). Most of these uses have been
stopped in the U.S. It continues to be used as a fumigant for treatment of logs for termites and
beetles, for control of moths in beehives, and as a preparation for dyes and waxes.
1,2-Dibromoethane is used in organic synthesis as a source of bromine, e.g., to brominate
carbanions and to activate magnesium for certain Grignard reagents. In the latter process, the
1,2-dibromoethane is converted to ethylene and magnesium bromide, exposing a freshly etched
portion of magnesium to the substrate. Historically, 1,2-dibromoethane was used as an anti-knock
additive in leaded fuels.
Physical & Chemical Properties/Definition of Chemical Group
Synonyms: 1,2-Dibromoethane, ethylene bromide, Bromofume, Dowfume EDB, Soilbrom 40,
DBE, EDB, glycol bromide, blycol dibromide
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Formula: C2H4Br2
Form: Liquid
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Molecular weight: 187.9
Boiling point (at 760 mm Hg): 131 degrees C (268 degrees F)
Specific gravity (water = 1): 2.17 at 25 degrees C (77 degrees F)
Vapor density: 6.5
Freezing point: 9 degrees C (48.2 degrees F)
Vapor pressure at 25 degrees C (77 degrees F): 11 mm Hg
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; soluble in alcohol, ether, acetone, and benzene.
Evaporation rate: Data not available.
Emergency Overview
OSHA Hazards
Carcinogen, Toxic by inhalation, Toxic by ingestion, Toxic by skin absorption, Corrosive
Target Organs
Liver, Kidney, Lungs, Eyes
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Signal word Danger
Hazard statement(s)
H301 + H311 Toxic if swallowed or in contact with skin.
H315 Causes skin irritation.
H319 Causes serious eye irritation.
H331 Toxic if inhaled.
H350 May cause cancer.
H371 May cause damage to organs.
H401 Toxic to aquatic life.
Precautionary statement(s)
P201 Obtain special instructions before use.
P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray.
P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing.
P301 + P310 IF SWALLOWED: Immediately call a POISON CENTER or doctor/physician.
P305 + P351 + P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove
contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
P311 Call a POISON CENTER or doctor/physician.
California Prop. 65 Components
WARNING! This product contains a chemical known to the State of California to cause birth
defects or other reproductive harm.
Acute toxicity
LDLO Oral - Human - female - 90.0 mg/kg
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Remarks: Diarrhea Ingestion may cause gastrointestinal irritation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Kidney, Ureter,
Bladder: Urine volume decreased.
This product is or contains a component that has been reported to be probably carcinogenic
based on its IARC, OSHA, ACGIH, NTP, or EPA classification.
Possible human carcinogen
IARC: 2A - Group 2A: Probably carcinogenic to humans (1,2-Dibromoethane)
NTP: Reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen (1,2-Dibromoethane)
Potential Hazards/Toxicity
Potential health effects
Inhalation Toxic if inhaled. Material is extremely destructive to the tissue of the mucous
membranes and upper respiratory tract.
Ingestion Toxic if swallowed. Causes burns.
Skin Toxic if absorbed through skin. Causes skin burns.
Eyes Causes eye burns.
Signs and Symptoms of Exposure
Symptoms of exposure may include burning sensation, coughing, wheezing, laryngitis, shortness
of breath, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Workers should use appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment that must be
carefully selected, used, and maintained to be effective in preventing skin contact with ethylene
dibromide. The selection of the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., gloves,
sleeves, encapsulating suits) should be based on the extent of the worker's potential exposure to
ethylene dibromide. The resistance of various materials to permeation by ethylene dibromide is
shown in the reference table below:
To evaluate the use of these PPE materials with ethylene dibromide, users should consult the
best available performance data and manufacturers' recommendations. Significant differences
have been demonstrated in the chemical resistance of generically similar PPE materials (e.g.,
butyl) produced by different manufacturers. In addition, the chemical resistance of a mixture may
be significantly different from that of any of its neat components.
Any chemical-resistant clothing that is used should be periodically evaluated to determine its
effectiveness in preventing dermal contact. Safety showers and eyewash stations should be
accessible within 10 seconds from areas that involve ethylene dibromide.
Splash-proof chemical safety goggles or face shields (20 to 30 cm long, minimum) should be
worn during any operation in which a solvent, caustic, or other toxic substance may be splashed
into the eyes.
Ethylene Dibromide (EDB) Specific Note: In addition to the possible need for wearing
protective outer apparel (e.g., aprons, encapsulating suits), workers should wear full-body
coverings that are laundered frequently. Contact Mission Linen - Uniform service or other laundry
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service agent to send the contaminated lab coats or apparel for cleaning/laundry. Note: *Persons
laundering the clothes should be informed of the hazardous properties of ethylene dibromide,
particularly its potential for causing systemic toxicity through dermal absorption. Use a double
transparent bag as packing to send the contaminated lab coats or apparel for laundry.
Protective clothing should be kept free of oil and grease and should be inspected and maintained
regularly to preserve its effectiveness.
NIOSH recommended Personal Protective Equipment for workers exposed to Ethylene Dibromide
Material
Breakthrough time (hr)
Polyvinyl Alcohol
>8
Teflon
>8
Viton
>8
Butyl Rubber
<1(*)
Nitrile Rubber
<1(*)
Polyethylene
<1(*)
Polyvinyl Chloride
<1(*)
Saranex
<1(*)
Reference: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/healthguidelines/ethylenedibromide/recognition.html
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
http://map.ais.ucla.edu/go/1003938#Respirator_Training_and_Fit_Testing_
PERSONAL HYGIENE PROCEDURES
If ethylene dibromide contacts the skin, workers should immediately wash the affected areas with
soap and water.
Clothing contaminated with ethylene dibromide should be removed immediately, and provisions
should be made for the safe removal of the chemical from the clothing. Persons laundering the
clothes should be informed of the hazardous properties of ethylene dibromide, particularly its
potential for causing systemic toxicity through dermal absorption.
A worker who handles ethylene dibromide should thoroughly wash hands, forearms, and face
with soap and water before eating, using tobacco products, using toilet facilities, applying
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cosmetics, or taking medication.
Workers should not eat, drink, use tobacco products, apply cosmetics, or take medication in
areas where ethylene dibromide or a solution containing ethylene dibromide is handled,
processed, or stored.
Exposure Guidelines:
PEL: 20 ppm OSHA TWA; 30 ppm OSHA ceiling.
TLV: 0.13 ppm (ceiling limit - 15 min); 0.045 ppm (TWA - 8 hours)
Engineering Controls
Ethylene dibromide must be handled under a chemical fume hood that has been inspected and
certified by EH&S within the last one year.
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. Take victim immediately to hospital. Consult a physician.
In case of eye contact
Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and consult a physician. Continue
rinsing eyes during transport to hospital.
If swallowed
Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person. Rinse mouth with water. Consult a
physician.
Special Handling and Storage Requirements
Designated Areas
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Designated area(s) for use and storage of Ethylene Dibromide must be established.
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All chemicals containing Ethylene Dibromide must be secondarily contained with proper
signage.
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Signage is required for the container, designated work area and storage location. Sign
wording must state the following:
Ethylene Dibromide containers must be affixed with caution / warning labels that read “CANCER
HAZARD / CARCINOGEN”
Precautions for safe handling
 Avoid inhalation of vapor or mist.
 Normal measures for preventive fire protection.
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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.
 Light sensitive. May darken on storage
Reactivity
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Conditions contributing to instability: Heat and/or light cause ethylene dibromide to
decompose slowly to produce hydrogen bromide, and moisture causes it to hydrolyze
slowly.
Incompatibilities: Ethylene dibromide reacts with chemically active metals such as
sodium, potassium, calcium, powdered aluminum, zinc, and magnesium, with liquid
ammonia, and with strong oxidizers.
Hazardous decomposition products: Toxic gases and vapors (such as hydrogen bromide,
bromine, and carbon monoxide) may be released in a fire involving ethylene dibromide.
Spill and Accident Procedure
Fire Fighting
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 (SCBA) for firefighting if necessary.
Accidental Release Measures
Personal precautions
Wear respiratory protection. Avoid breathing vapors, mist or gas. Ensure adequate ventilation.
Evacuate personnel to safe areas.
Environmental precautions
Prevent further leakage or spillage if safe to do so. Do not let product enter drains. Discharge into
the environment must be avoided.
Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up
Soak up with inert absorbent material and dispose of as hazardous waste. Keep in suitable,
closed containers for disposal.
In the event of a spill or leak involving ethylene dibromide, persons not wearing protective
equipment and fully-encapsulating, vapor-protective clothing should be restricted from
contaminated areas until cleanup has been completed. The following steps should be undertaken
following a spill or leak:
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Notify safety personnel.
Ventilate to reduce concentration of ethylene dibromide.
Do not touch the spilled material.
Stop leak if this can be done without risk.
Water spray may be used to reduce vapors.
For small liquid spills, take up with sand or other noncombustible absorbent material and
place into closed containers for later disposal.
For large liquid spills, build dikes far ahead of the spill to contain the ethylene dibromide
for later reclamation or disposal.
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Chemical Spill Dial 911 and x59797
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
Ethylene Dibromide waste containers must be affixed with caution / warning labels that read
“CANCER HAZARD / CARCINOGEN”
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 or electronic copy must be available for Ethylene Dibromide (EDB).
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)
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Prior to conducting any work with Ethylene Dibromide (EDB), 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.
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The Principal Investigator must provide his/her laboratory personnel with a copy of this SOP
and a copy of the Ethylene Dibromide (EDB) MSDS provided by the manufacturer.
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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