Styrene is a flammable liquid that is used to make polystyrene plastics, fiberglass, rubber, and latex.
Where is styrene found?
• Consumer products – cigarettes, household, and building products
• Air – emissions from styrene-based products, cigarettes, vehicle exhaust.
• Food and water – containing styrene from naturally occurring sources of contamination.
What happens when exposed to Styrene?
Short-term: Exposure to styrene can cause:
• Irritation to the eyes, skin, and nose
• Gastrointestinal effects
• Respiratory effects
• High vapor concentrations cause dizziness, drunkenness, and anesthesia.
Long-term: Long-term exposure to styrene can cause:
• Central nervous system and kidney effects
• Headaches
• Depression
• Fatigue and weakness
• Hearing loss
• Balance and concentration problems
• Cancer(suspected)
• Eye, nose, and throat irritation are common at exposure levels above 50 to 100 ppm
• Multiple central and peripheral acute nervous system effects have been described at levels of about 100 ppm.
"Styrene sickness" was described in workers heavily exposed to styrene including nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, and general weakness.
As an immediate precautionary measure, isolate spill or leak area for at least 50 meters (150 feet) in all directions.
LARGE SPILL: Consider initial downwind evacuation for at least 300 meters (1000 feet).
First Aid
EYES: First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush the victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center.
SKIN: IMMEDIATELY flood affected skin with water while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Gently wash all affected skin areas thoroughly with soap and water.
INHALATION: IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area; take deep breaths of fresh air. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used; if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.
INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. If the victim is conscious and not convulsing, give 1 or 2 glasses of water to dilute the chemical. If the
the victim is convulsing or unconscious, do not give anything by mouth, ensure that the victim's airway is open, and lay the victim on his/her side with the head lower than the body.
References
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