Ethyl acetate: Health effects
Description
Short-term exposure to high levels of ethyl acetate results first in irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, followed by headache, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and unconsciousness. Very high concentrations may cause a stupor. Prolonged exposures may cause clouding of the eye, damage to the lungs and heart and kidney and liver problems.
Entering the body
Ethyl acetate will enter the body if we breathe in contaminated air, or eat or drink contaminated materials. Ethyl acetate can pass through the skin.
Exposure
Workers in the industries that use or produce ethyl acetate are at risk of exposure. Consumers can be exposed to ethyl acetate by exposure to air from production and processing facilities using ethyl acetate. Consumers may also be exposed to ethyl acetate when using consumer products containing ethyl acetate (thinners for paint lacquers and enamels, nail preparations, etc) especially if there is not good ventilation, and by drinking wine.
Health guidelines
According to Worksafe Australia:
For ethyl acetate, it is allowable for workers to be exposed to concentrations of 200 parts per million over an eight hour workshift.
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