Re: solvent safety

[P3D John W Roberts <roberts@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

>Date: Fri, 23 May 1997 23:14:01 -0500
>From: P3D  Gary Cullen  <cullen@xxxxxxxxxxx>
>Subject: solvent safety

>Bill Davis wrote:

>>I also checked my database for several other ketones, including methyl
>>isobutyl ketone, diisobutyl ketone and ketohexamethylene.  None of these
>>are carcinogens either.

>Thanks for straightening me out Bill!
>I had been misinformed by a fellow worker many years ago. I do recall
>getting headaches working with relatively small amounts of a ketone solvent
>at one time but that could have just been me.

I think you just raised a point that had not been covered in the
previous discussion - carcinogenic effects and flammability are only two 
aspects of the safety of organic solvents. Also important are long term 
effects on the nervous system, lungs, and other body organs, short term 
effects such as headaches and intoxication, and possibly tendency to cause 
addiction. 

I haven't made a formal study of it, but I know from personal experience that
some solvents are much more unpleasant to be around than others. Proper
ventilation is important, but I believe it's more critical for some solvents
than others.

John R


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