Methyl isobutyl ketone: Health effects
Description
Breathing methyl isobutyl ketone for short periods of time (i.e. painting in a poorly ventilated area) can affect the nervous system. The effects may be headaches, dizziness, narcosis (acts like a narcotic), nausea, numbness in the fingers and toes, and (if the exposure is prolonged) unconsciousness, and even death. Methyl isobutyl ketone vapour irritates the eyes, nose, and throat. Prolonged contact with the skin will cause irritation.
Entering the body
Methyl isobutyl ketone will enter the body if we breathe in contaminated air, or consume food or water that has been contaminated. It can also pass through the skin.
Exposure
Workers in the industries that use or produce methyl isobutyl ketone are at risk of exposure. Consumers can be exposed to methyl isobutyl ketone by exposure to air from production and processing facilities using methyl isobutyl ketone. Consumers may also be exposed to methyl isobutyl ketone when using consumer products containing methyl isobutyl ketone, especially if there is not good ventilation. Because methyl isobutyl ketone is used in many consumer products , short-term indoor concentrations may be elevated above the levels considered safe for workers.
Health guidelines
Worksafe Australia:
For methyl isobutyl ketone, it is allowable for workers to be exposed to concentrations of 50 parts per million over an eight hour workshift.
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