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Propane 101

 


Material Safety Data Sheet – Propane

Chemical Identification   Hazardous Ingredients   Physical Data   Fire and Explosion Hazard Data   Health Hazards   
Reactivity Data 
   Spill or Leak Procedures   Special Protection Information   Special Precautions    Toxicological  Information 
 DOT Labeling Information (49 CFR 100-199)

You understand that, like any petroleum hydrocarbon fuel, propane can be dangerous if it is not handled properly.  Before you attempt to handle propane, make sure you are fully informed or have a professional provide assistance.  Only you can be certain that you safely receive the benefits propane offers!  Never attempt to repair a propane appliance, or even light a pilot, without first seeking professional advice and help.

The following is provided as general information for you, the consumer.  You also have a “duty to inform” yourself about propane.  Industry associations and other sources have additional information; ask us and we will be happy to assist you.

Section 1 – Chemical Identification

Emergency Number:                 904-387-3511

CAS NO:                                 74-98-6

Formula:                                   C3H8

DOT ID Number:                     UN 1075

Chemical Name               Liquefied Petroleum Gas or Propane

Chemical Family:             Paraffinic Hydrocarbon

DOT Label:                              Flammable Gas

Section 2 – Hazardous Ingredients

Hazardous Mixtures:                      Air with 2.1 to 9.5% Propane

OSHA PEL:                             1,000 ppm (1,800 MG/M3)

IDLH:                                      2,100 ppm  (3,780 mg/m3)

Section 3 – Physical Data

Boiling Point:                            -44 F

Specific Gravity:                        0.51 @ 60 F (H20=1)

Vapor Pressure at 100 F:            208 psi Maximum

Volatility by Volume:                        100%

Vapor Density:             1.52 (Air=1)

Evaporative Rate:                >1 (Ethel Ether=1)

Solubility in H2O:                Negligible

Appearance and Odor:            Clear and odorless (unpleasant odor created by odorant)

Section 4 – Fire and Explosion Hazard Data

Flammable Limits (% Volume in Air):LEL:2.1  UEL:9.5

Flashpoint:                                -156 F (Estimate)

Extinguishing Media:              Dry Chemical, CO2, Water Spray, Fog or Foam

 Special Fire Fighting Procedures:  Stop flow of gas.  Use water to keep containers exposed to fire cool.  Use water spray to disperse un-ignited gas or vapor.  If ignition has occurred and no water is available, tank metal may weaken from overheating.  Evacuate area.  If gas has not ignited, LP gas liquid or vapor may be dispersed by water spray or flooding.

  Caution:  Vapors are heavier than air and may spread on the ground.  Evacuate area of all unnecessary personnel.  USE NIOSH/MSHA approved self-contained breathing apparatus

 Section 5 – Health Hazards

Routes of Entry:  Inhalation and Skin (liquid contact).  Target organs:  Central nervous system and skin.  Effects of over-exposure:  breathing propane vapors can lead to symptoms ranging from dizziness to anesthesia and respirator arrest.  Eyes – moderate irritation.  Contact with liquid may cause frostbite due to rapid vaporization.  Emergency and First Aid Procedures:  Get immediate medical attention.  If liquid propane makes contact with skin, immediately flush with warm water for at least 15 minutes.  DO NOT USE HOT WATER.  If someone inhales propane, administer oxygen if breathing is difficult or artificial respiration if the subject is not breathing.

Section 6 – Reactivity Data

Stable:                                                  Yes

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  None

Incompatibility (materials to avoid):  Mixing with oxygen or air, except at burner

Hazardous Polymerization:             Will not occur

Section 7 – Spill or Leak Procedures

Steps to be taken in case propane is released:  Keep public away.  Shut off supply of gas.  No flares, smoking or flames in hazard area.  Ventilate area.  Stop the leak if it can be done without risk.  Disperse with water spray.

Waste Disposal Method:  Ensure conformity with local disposal regulation.  Vent vapor to a safe location.  Ensure dissipation of gas below the lower explosive limit (LEL).  Consult applicable ordinances for compliance.

Section 8 – Special Protection Information

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH/MSHA approved respirator when at, or above, the PEL.  In IDLH use self-contained  breathing apparatus.  Ventilation:  Use explosion-proof equipment and keep resources of ignition at safe distances.  Personal Protection Equipment and Apparel:  Gloves impervious to the action of propane liquid.  Eye Protection:  Chemical splash goggles, face shield when handling liquids.

Section 9 – Special Precautions

Precautions to be taken when handling and storing:  Store outside.  Keep containers  away from heat sources and store in upright position.  Containers should be dropped.  Keep container valve closed and plugged when not in use.

Other precautions:  Store away from likely ignition sources.

Section 10 – Texicological  Information

Carcinogenicity:

            National Toxicological Program (NTP):  No

            International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC):  No

            Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA):  No

Section 11 – DOT Labeling Information (49 CFR 100-199)

Shipping Name:                                                Propane

Hazardous Classification:                            2.1 Flammable Gas

Identification No.                                          UN 1075

Label(s) Required:                                              Flammable Gas

Placard:                                                            Flammable Gas/1075

RCRA Classification:                                        Ignitable (for unadulterated product as a waste)