Acrylic acid: Health effects
Description
Symptoms of exposure to this compound include irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Corrosion and burns can occur. Eye and lung damage can also occur. Exposure may cause coughing, wheezing, laryngitis, shortness of breath, headache, nausea and vomiting. Inhalation may be fatal as a result of spasm, inflammation and swelling of the larynx and bronchi, chemical pneumonitis and pulmonary oedema (fluid in the lungs). It may cause sensitisation (allergic reaction) and even very small future exposures can cause a rash. Ingestion can lead to pain and burning in the mouth, pharynx and stomach, diarrhoea, fall in blood pressure, asphyxia due to swelling in the throat, and destruction of mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract. Skin contact may lead to inflammation, skin rashes and systemic poisoning (if absorbed through the skin).
Acrylic Acid should be handled as a teratogen.
Entering the body
Acrylic acid is absorbed from skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion.
Exposure
Products containing acrylic acid include polishes, paints, coatings, rug backings, adhesives, plastics, textiles, and paper.
Health guidelines
Worksafe Australia recommends an 8 hour time weighted average (TWA) exposure limit of 2 ppm (5.9 mg/m3)
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