WATER SOLNS OF ... GLUTARALDEHYDE ...
ARE RELATIVELY STRONG IRRITANTS TO THE SKIN OR EYES. THEIR LOWER VAPOR
PRESSURES, HOWEVER, REDUCE THE LIKELIHOOD THAT INHALATION WOULD BE A SUBSTANTIAL
ROUTE OF EXPOSURE.
...SEVERE EYE, PLUS NOSE & THROAT IRRITATION WERE FELT BY OPERATOR &
INVESTIGATORS /IN COLD-STERILIZING PROCEDURE/, WHO ALSO EXPERIENCED SUDDEN
HEADACHE.
IT CAN...CAUSE SENSITIZATION (ALLERGIC CONTACT DERMATITIS) FROM OCCASIONAL OR
INCIDENTAL OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE.
Nine medical and nursing staff (4 male, 5 female) working in a endoscopy unit
(with 2% glutaraldehyde on the
disinfecting trolley) were offered a questionnaire to determine the symptoms
associated with glutaraldehyde. Eight
members of the staff (3 male, 5 female), who had been affected by the vapor,
underwent clinical assessment, including details of any history of atopy. None
of the staff affected had any previous history of allergy. Air samples obtained
by a personal sampler over a period of 1 hr, from the breathing zone of the
nurse carrying a cold sterilization process, contained 0.12 ppm glutaraldehyde. Air at the corridor bench
contained 0.05 ppm. Clinical manifestations included watering of eyes, rhinitis,
dermatitis, respiratory difficulty, nausea and headache.
Although glutaraldehyde is a weak
allergen, the vapors from glutaraldehyde
may act as an irritant to bronchial & laryngeal mucous membranes, &
prolonged exposure could produce localized edema & other symptoms suggestive
of an allergic response.
In a study simulating a complete cold sterilizing procedure lasting 12 min,
the integrated sample of activated, 2% aqueous sol resulted in 0.38 ppm of glutaraldehyde measured at the operator's
breathing zone. Although some irritation was recorded throughout this procedure,
it was not until the end of the operation, when the equipment undergoing
sterilization was being air-hose dried, that severe irritation of the eye, nose,
and throat was experienced by the operator and by the investigators, who also
experienced sudden headaches.
A 33 year old respiratory technologist developed occupational asthma as a
result of exposure to glutaraldehyde.
The case was documented by preshift and postshift spirometry, appropriate
changes in peak expiratory flow rate, provocative concentration causing a 20%
fall in forced expiratory volume in 1 second, and workplace challenge test. The
subject had a history of asthma as a child with mild symptoms, readily relieved
by bronchodilators. As an adult, she had symptoms briefly following colds. At
age 29 she began working in a bronchoscopy unit at a local hospital; her asthma
worsened since that time and she was using an albuterol inhalant three to four
times a day. The subject also intermittently received courses of prednisone for
acute exacerbations. The subject assisted physicians in fiberoptic bronchoscopy
and also cleaned bronchoscopes after use with Sporicidin which contained 3.6%
glutaraldehyde, 7% phenol, and 1.2%
sodium-phenolate. Cleaning was performed in a small room with no ventilation.
Sporicidin was placed in a basin that was not covered during cleaning. After
diagnosis, the subject continued work but no longer performed the cleaning
operation. As a result, her symptoms have decreased and she has been able to
gradually reduce the dose of inhaled beclomethasone to 500 ug/day without
recurrence. Lung function tests have returned to normal levels.
This letter reports two cases of work-related asthma in radiographers, each
case attributable to a different agent. Tests on one patient revealed an
asthmatic response on exposure to glutaraldehyde, a hardener used during
developing, while tests on the other showed adverse reactions to fixative
chemicals. Although it is likely that, under the best conditions, concentrations
of glutaraldehyde in radiographic
departments are below the occupational exposure standard, higher levels may
occur during maintenance or where ventilation is inadequate. Concern about
respiratory disease has been expressed within the radiography profession.
A case of contact allergic dermatitis due to occupational exposure to
benzalkonium chloride and glutaraldehyde
in a dental nurse was described. A 36 year old female dental nurse with an
intensely itchy eczena on her hands, forearms, upper arms, and face was
examined. The eczema began on her hands and forearms 4 months previously and
gradually spread to her upper arms and face. She was patch tested with the
standard Italian allergen series, a nurse series, and products she used at work.
She reacted to thiuram mix and nickel sulfate in the standard series, glutaraldehyde and benzalkonium chloride in
the nurse series, and three products she used at work (Sanipull, Ster-l, and
Cidex). Sanipull contained 1%
benzalkonium chloride, Ster-l contained glutaraldehyde, and Cidex contained 2% acidic glutaraldehyde. The reactions to benzalkonium
chloride and glutaraldehyde and the
products containing these were judged to reflect her current symptoms. The
reactions to nickel sulfate and thiuram mix were judged to reflect episodes of
contact dermatitis induced by jewelry and latex rubber gloves. /It was/
concluded that cases like this can be expected to become more common since
benzalkonium chloride and glutaraldehyde
are being used more frequently to sterilize dental and other medical instruments
and equipment.
Proctitis has been reported after the use of glutaraldehyde as a disinfectant of flexible
sigmoidoscopes. Within hours of an exam patients may have acute tenesmus &
bloody diarrhea. The prognosis is good. Recovery follows in a few weeks.
Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:
A severe skin and eye irritant in humans.
Contact with liquid causes severe irritation of eyes and irritation of skin.
Eye and respiratory irritation are noted at a level of 0.3 ppm.
Drug Warnings:
This disinfectant may cross-react with formaldehyde.
Probable Routes of Human Exposure:
Occupational exposure to health care workers is common.
Sensitization has occurred mainly through its use as a cold sterilizing
solution in hospitals and dental clinics where medical and allied professionals
including x-ray film handlers may be exposed to activated glutaraldehyde in concentrations of 0.13-2%.
Minimum Fatal Dose Level:
3-4. 3= MODERATELY TOXIC, PROBABLE ORAL LETHAL DOSE (HUMAN) 0.5-5 G/KG,
BETWEEN 1 OUNCE & 1 PINT FOR 70 KG PERSON (150 LB). 4=VERY TOXIC, PROBABLE
ORAL LETHAL DOSE (HUMAN) 50-500 MG/KG, BETWEEN 1 TEASPOON AND 1 OUNCE FOR 70 KG
PERSON (150 LB).
Emergency Medical Treatment:
Emergency Medical Treatment:
EMT Copyright Disclaimer:
Portions of the POISINDEX(R) database are provided here for
general reference. THE COMPLETE POISINDEX(R) DATABASE, AVAILABLE FROM
MICROMEDEX, SHOULD BE CONSULTED FOR ASSISTANCE IN THE DIAGNOSIS OR
TREATMENT OF SPECIFIC CASES. Copyright 1974-1998 Micromedex, Inc. Denver,
Colorado. All Rights Reserved. Any duplication, replication or
redistribution of all or part of the POISINDEX(R) database is a violation
of Micromedex' copyrights and is strictly prohibited.
The following Overview, *** GLUTARALDEHYDE ***, is relevant for this
HSDB record chemical.
Life Support:
o This overview assumes that basic life support measures
have been instituted.
Clinical Effects:
SUMMARY OF EXPOSURE
0.2.1.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Glutaraldehyde may be irritating to the eyes, skin, and
mucous membranes. Exposure may induce asthma in some
individuals and can cause an allergic contact
dermatitis.
o Vapor exposure in humans has been associated with
coryza, epistaxis, headache, asthma, chest pain,
palpitations, tachycardia, and nausea and vomiting.
1. Additional symptoms from exposure may include cough,
rhinitis, respiratory difficulty, and lacrimation.
o Human exposure data are minimal. Symptoms and
treatments may be similar to that of formaldehyde and
are dependent on route and concentration of exposure.
o CNS depression has occurred in experimental animals
given intravenous injections.
HEENT
0.2.4.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Topical glutaraldehyde has caused severe eye injury in
rabbits. A 2% solution may cause severe inflammation,
lacrimation, and edema.
o Glutaraldehyde is particularly irritating to the nose
and throat.
CARDIOVASCULAR
0.2.5.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Tachycardia has been reported with occupational
exposures (dermal and inhalation). Hypotension has
been reported with formaldehyde and may be a concern
with glutaraldehyde.
RESPIRATORY
0.2.6.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Occupational asthma has been reported following
inhalation. It is delayed in onset.
o Hemorrhagic pulmonary congestion and pneumonitis were
common effects reported in animals regardless of
whether glutaraldehyde was administered IV, orally, or
by inhalation.
NEUROLOGIC
0.2.7.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Seizures and CNS depression were noted in animals given
intravenous glutaraldehyde.
GASTROINTESTINAL
0.2.8.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Glutaraldehyde may cause irritation of the
gastrointestinal tract and frank gastrointestinal
hemorrhages in higher concentrations. Sigmoidoscopy
instruments disinfected with glutaraldehyde and
inadequately rinsed may cause bloody diarrhea and
proctitis.
DERMATOLOGIC
0.2.14.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Dermal solutions of 2% to 10% are used therapeutically,
but may result in staining of skin and nails a brown or
golden brown color. A 10% solution is a potential skin
irritant and has caused pruritus and dermatitis.
Allergic contact dermatitis has also been reported.
CARCINOGENICITY
0.2.21.2 HUMAN OVERVIEW
o At the time of this review, no studies were found on
the possible carcinogenic activity of glutaraldehyde in
humans.
o Nasal cancers have been reported in rat inhalational
studies.
0.2.21.3 ANIMAL OVERVIEW
o NASAL CANCERS - Glutaraldehyde was tested against the
known rat nasal carcinogen, formaldehyde, and found to
be 5 times as potent as formaldehyde. Preliminary data
suggest that a chronic inhalation study is needed to
assess the carcinogenic potential of glutaraldehyde (St
Clair et al, 1989).
o Glutaraldehyde was not carcinogenic in rats or mice by
inhalation in a 13-week exposure.
GENOTOXICITY
o Glutaraldehyde, in a dentin bonding agent, has been
shown to be mutagenic in an Ames assay using Salmonella
typhimurium strains (RTECS, 2001; Schweikl et al, 1994)
as well as in sister chromatid exchange and mutations in
mouse lymphocyte cells and cytogenetic changes in
hamster ovary cells (RTECS, 2001).
Laboratory:
o Blood gases or bicarbonate levels should be monitored for
possible development of acidosis. Liver function tests
should be monitored.
o If respiratory tract irritation or respiratory depression
are clinically evident, consider monitoring pulse
oximetry, arterial blood gases, chest x-ray, and pulmonary
function tests.
Treatment Overview:
SUMMARY EXPOSURE
o The treatment of glutaraldehyde is nearly identical to
that of formaldehyde. It appears to be slightly less
toxic except for intravenous or ocular exposures.
Because of its lower vapor pressure, glutaraldehyde is
less likely to be inhaled. Treatment should be aimed at
recognition and management of gastrointestinal
hemorrhage, ulceration and perforation, and any systemic
effects such as CNS depression and hypotension.
ORAL EXPOSURE
o SUMMARY - Glutaraldehyde treatment is nearly identical
to formaldehyde. It appears to be slightly less toxic
except for IV and ocular exposures. Treatment: observe
for and manage any gastrointestinal hemorrhage,
ulceration, or perforation; supportive care is indicated
for CNS depression and hypotension.
o DILUTION: Immediately dilute with 4 to 8 ounces (120 to
240 mL) of milk or water (not to exceed 4 ounces/120 mL
in a child).
o Because of the potential for gastrointestinal tract
irritation or CNS depression and subsequent aspiration,
do NOT induce emesis. Significant caustic injury burns
may occur following ingestion. The possible benefit of
early removal of some ingested material by cautious
gastric lavage must be weighed against its potential
complications such as bleeding or perforation or
aspiration.
o ACTIVATED CHARCOAL: Administer charcoal as a slurry
(240 mL water/30 g charcoal). Usual dose: 25 to 100 g
in adults/adolescents, 25 to 50 g in children (1 to 12
years), and 1 g/kg in infants less than 1 year old.
o HYPOTENSION: Infuse 10 to 20 mL/kg isotonic fluid,
place in Trendelenburg position. If hypotension
persists, administer dopamine (5 to 20 mcg/kg/min) or
norepinephrine (0.1 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min), titrate to
desired response.
o ESOPHAGOSCOPY - Should be considered following oral
ingestion of concentrated glutaraldehyde solutions to
assess the severity of caustic injury.
INHALATION EXPOSURE
o Move patient to fresh air and monitor for respiratory
distress. Hemorrhagic pneumonitis has been reported in
animals exposed to glutaraldehyde.
o If respiratory tract irritation or respiratory
depression is evident, monitor arterial blood gases,
chest x-ray, and pulmonary function tests.
EYE EXPOSURE
o Exposed eyes should be irrigated copiously with water
for at least 15 minutes. An ophthalmic examination
should be considered if irritation or pain persists
thereafter. Glutaraldehyde in concentrations as low as
2% may cause ocular damage (severe inflammation,
lacrimation, and edema).
DERMAL EXPOSURE
o DECONTAMINATION: Remove contaminated clothing and wash
exposed area thoroughly with soap and water. A
physician may need to examine the area if irritation or
pain persists.
Range of Toxicity:
o The toxic dose has not been established in man. Ten
percent solutions have caused dermatitis when applied
therapeutically. Two percent solutions have caused ocular
damage.
Antidote and Emergency Treatment:
Skin that becomes contaminated with glutaraldehyde should be washed immediately or
showered.
Basic treatment: Establish a patent airway. Suction if necessary. Watch for
signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary.
Aggressive airway management may be necessary. Administer oxygen by
nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary
... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for pulmonary edema
and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush eyes immediately with
water. Irrigate each eye continuously with normal saline during transport ... .
Do not use emetics. For ingestion, rinse mouth and administer 5 ml/kg up to 200
ml of water for dilution if the patient can swallow, has a strong gag reflex,
and does not drool. Administer activated charcoal ... . /Aldehydes and related
compounds/
Advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for
airway control in the patient who is unconscious or in respiratory arrest.
Intubation should be considered at the first sign of upper airway obstruction
caused by edema. Positive pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask
device may be beneficial. Start an IV with D5W /SRP: "To keep open", minimal
flow rate/. Use lactated Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. Watch for
signs of fluid overload. Treat seizures with diazepam ... . For hypotension with
signs of hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Consider vasopressors if
patient is hypotensive with a normal fluid volume. Watch for signs of fluid
overload ... . Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . Use proparacaine
hydrochloride to assist eye irrigation ... . /Aldehydes and related compounds/
Animal Toxicity Studies:
Evidence for Carcinogenicity:
A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen.
Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts:
IRRITANT EFFECT ON SKIN OF RABBITS IS MODERATE. /FROM TABLE/
... A 25% AQ SOLN ON RABBIT EYES, CAUSED SEVERE INJURY, GRADED 9 ON A SCALE
OF 10. A 1% SOL QUICKLY ABOLISHES THE B-WAVE OF THE RABBIT RETINA IN VITRO.
18 6-8 wk old male and female mice of various strains (Swiss, Balb/c, DBA/2,
CBA, C57B1/6, and B6D2F1) received a topical application of 10% glutaraldehyde in ethanol on both sides of the
right ear on days 0 and 2, and a scapular sc injection of 0.05 ml of complete
Freunds adjuvant on day 2. On day 9, left ear thickness was measured immediately
before topical application of 1% glutaraldehyde in ethanol, on both sides of
the ear, and again 24 hr later (day 10). A statistically significant incr in ear
thickness was seen.
Solutions of 1 and 2% glutaral
destroy Bacillus anthracis spores more rapidly than 4% formaldehyde. ... In
addition to sporicidal activity glutaral
has inactivated enteroviruses and other viruses.
Alkanes, alcohols, ketones, and aldehydes reported not to produce
neurotoxicity after chronic and subchronic exposures. Test substance: Glutaraldehyde, Species: Rat, Route: Water,
Exposure conditions: 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0% in drinking water for 11 weeks. /From
table/
Percutaneous lethal dose in rabbits 0.6 g/kg.
... When mice were exposed at 8 and 33 ppm (33 and 133 mg/cu m) of
alkalinized glutaraldehyde for 24 hr,
the animals reacted with distinctly nervous behavior, panting and washing of the
face and limbs, with symptoms disappearing after a few hours. Fifty percent of
the mice in each group were sacrificed immediately postexposure, and the
remaining animals were killed the following day. Lungs and kidneys showed no
histopathologic damage, but the livers of the mice exposed at 33 ppm showed
definite signs of toxic hepatitis, possibly reversible, since it was present to
somewhat lesser degree in the animals necropsied one day postexposure.
... CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of these 2 yr inhalation studies, there
was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of glutaraldehyde in male or female F344/N rats
exposed to 250, 500 750 ppb. There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity in
male or female B6C3F1 mice exposed to 62.5, 125 or 250 ppb.
National Toxicology Program Studies:
... 2 yr study in rats: Groups of 50 male and 50 female F344/N rats were
exposed to 0, 250, 500 or 750 ppb glutaraldehyde vapor by inhalation 6 hr/day 5
days/wk for 104 wk. ... 2 yr study in mice: Groups of 50 male and 50 female
B6C3F1 mice were exposed to 0, 62.5, 125 or 250 ppb glutaraldehyde vapor by inhalation, 6 hr/day 5
days/wk for 104 wk. ... CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of these 2 yr
inhalation studies, there was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of glutaraldehyde in male or female F344/N rats
exposed to 250, 500 750 ppb. There was no evidence of carcinogenic activity in
male or female B6C3F1 mice exposed to 62.5, 125 or 250 ppb.
... The probable major metabolic pathway /is/ initial oxidation to the
corresponding mono- or dicarboxylic acid by aldehyde dehydrogenase & then
further oxidation of the acidic intermediate to carbon dioxide.
Absorption, Distribution & Excretion:
Material balance & pharmacokinetic studies were conducted with rats &
rabbits including iv or topical dosing with [14C]glutaraldehyde. IV dosing resulted in
radiochemical recovery from 86% to 101%. Principal route of recovery was as CO2
at 22% to 80% of the admin dose (7%-28% urinary, 0.2%-5% feces). Epicutaneous
dosing resutled in radiochemical recovery primarily in the skin at the site of
application (31%-61%) with no consistent accumulation in any other tissue.
Rabbits absorbed 33% to 53% of the epicutaneously administered dose & rats
absorbed 4.1% to 8.7%. Pharmacokinetic studies indicated percutaneous
radiochemical absorption of 0.3% to 2.1% for rats & 2.5% to 15.6% for
rabbits under conservative study conditions that are likely to overestimate
potential human exposure conditions.
Mechanism of Action:
Cross-linking of the peptidoglycan in the bacterial cell wall with
intermolecular bonding between techoic acid chains & glutaraldehyde may cause a partial sealing
& contraction of the outer cell envelope.
Pharmacology:
Therapeutic Uses:
Disinfectants; Fixatives
...USED ON LIVING TISSUES IN TREATMENT OF WARTS & HYPERHIDROSIS.
Glutaral 2% in a buffered solution
(pH 7.5) ... has an anhidrotic effect when applied to the palms and soles but
not the axillae.
IT...POSSESSES TUBERCULOCIDAL ACTION.
Drug Warnings:
This disinfectant may cross-react with formaldehyde.
Minimum Fatal Dose Level:
3-4. 3= MODERATELY TOXIC, PROBABLE ORAL LETHAL DOSE (HUMAN) 0.5-5 G/KG,
BETWEEN 1 OUNCE & 1 PINT FOR 70 KG PERSON (150 LB). 4=VERY TOXIC, PROBABLE
ORAL LETHAL DOSE (HUMAN) 50-500 MG/KG, BETWEEN 1 TEASPOON AND 1 OUNCE FOR 70 KG
PERSON (150 LB).
Environmental Fate & Exposure:
Probable Routes of Human Exposure:
Occupational exposure to health care workers is common.
Sensitization has occurred mainly through its use as a cold sterilizing
solution in hospitals and dental clinics where medical and allied professionals
including x-ray film handlers may be exposed to activated glutaraldehyde in concentrations of 0.13-2%.
Environmental Standards &
Regulations:
FIFRA Requirements:
As the federal pesticide law FIFRA directs, EPA is conducting a comprehensive
review of older pesticides to consider their health and environmental effects
and make decisions about their future use. Under this pesticide reregistration
program, EPA examines health and safety data for pesticide active ingredients
initially registered before November 1, 1984, and determines whether they are
eligible for reregistration. In addition, all pesticides must meet the new
safety standard of the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. Pesticides for which
EPA had not issued Registration Standards prior to the effective date of FIFRA,
as amended in 1988, were divided into three lists based upon their potential for
human exposure and other factors, with List B containing pesticides of greater
concern and List D pesticides of less concern. Glutaraldehyde is found on List B. Case No:
2315; Pesticide type: fungicide, antimicrobial; Case Status: OPP is reviewing
data from the pesticide's producers regarding its human health and/or
environmental effects, or OPP is determining the pesticide's eligibility for
reregistration and developing the Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED)
document.; Active ingredient (AI): Glutaraldhyde; Data Call-in (DCI) Date(s):
06/10/91, 07/15/92, 10/13/95; AI Status: The producers of the pesticide has made
commitments to conduct the studies and pay the fees required for reregistration,
and are meeting those commitments in a timely manner.
TSCA Requirements:
Section 8(a) of TSCA requires manufacturers of this chemical substance to
report preliminary assessment information concerned with production, use, and
exposure to EPA as cited in the preamble in 51 FR 41329.
Pursuant to section 8(d) of TSCA, EPA promulgated a model Health and Safety
Data Reporting Rule. The section 8(d) model rule requires manufacturers,
importers, and processors of listed chemical substances and mixtures to submit
to EPA copies and lists of unpublished health and safety studies. Pentanedial is included on this list.
FDA Requirements:
Microcapsules for flavoring substances. Microcapsules maybe safely used for
encapsulating discrete particles of flavoring substances that are generally
recognized as safe for their intended use or are regulated under this part, in
accordance with the following conditions: ... Component: glutaraldehyde; Limitation: as cross-linking
agent for insolubilizing a coacervate of gum araabic and gelatin.
Glutaraldehyde is an indirect food
additive for use only as a component of adhesives.
Chemical/Physical Properties:
Molecular Formula:
C5-H8-O2
Molecular Weight:
100.13
Color/Form:
Colorless liquid
Oil
Odor:
Pungent odor
Boiling Point:
188 deg C (decomp)
Melting Point:
FP: -14 deg C
Density/Specific Gravity:
0.72
Solubilities:
Miscible in ethanol and water; sol in benzene
SOL IN ETHER
Spectral Properties:
Index of refraction: 1.4338 @ 25 deg C
MASS: NIST 1116 (NIST/EPA/MCDC Mass Spectral Database 1990 Version)
Hydroxyl radical reaction rate constant = 2.38X10-11 cu cm/molecule-sec @ 25
deg C
Polymerizes in water to a glassy form which regenerates the dialdehyde on
vacuum distillation.
VP = 17 mm Hg @ 20 deg C; FP = -7 deg C /25% aqueous solution/; FP = -14 deg
C /50% aqueous solution/
VP = 17 mm Hg @ 20 deg C; FP = -7 deg C /25% aqueous solution/
Chemical Safety & Handling:
Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:
A severe skin and eye irritant in humans.
Contact with liquid causes severe irritation of eyes and irritation of skin.
Eye and respiratory irritation are noted at a level of 0.3 ppm.
Hazardous Reactivities & Incompatibilities:
Strong oxidizers, strong bases [Note: Alkaline solutions of glutaraldehyde (i.e., activated glutaraldehyde) react with alcohol, ketones,
amines, hydrazines & proteins].
Hazardous Decomposition:
When heated to decomposition it emits acrid smoke and irritating fumes.
Protective Equipment & Clothing:
Goggles or face shield; rubber gloves.
Neoprene or butyl rubber gloves are protective. Latex rubber gloves are not
as protective.
Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent skin contact.
Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact.
Eyewash fountains should be provided in areas where there is any possbility
that workers could be exposed to the substance; this is irrespective of the
recommendation involving the wearing of eye protection.
Facilities for quickly drenching the body should be provided within the
immediate work area for emergency use where there is a possibility of exposure.
[Note: It is intended that these facilities provide a sufficient quantity or
flow of water to quickly remove the substance from any body areas likely to be
exposed. The actual determination of what constitutes an adequate quick drench
facility depends on the specific circumstances. In certain instances, a deluge
shower should be readily available, whereas in others, the availability of water
from a sink or hose could be considered adequate.]
Preventive Measures:
SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is
conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend
not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the
substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye
protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be
individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the
wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases,
contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection
equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.
Containment of vapors and prevention of skin contact are important industrial
hygiene principles to help avoid sensitization of the skin and respiratory
irritation and/or asthma. Proper skin protection must be provided as well as
ventilation controls.
The worker should immediately wash the skin when it becomes contaminated.
Work clothing that becomes wet or significantly contaminated should be
removed and replaced.
Contact lenses should not be worn when working with this chemical.
SRP: Contaminated protective clothing should be segregated in such a manner
so that there is no direct personal contact by personnel who handle, dispose, or
clean the clothing. Quality assurance to ascertain the completeness of the
cleaning procedures should be implemented before the decontaminated protective
clothing is returned for reuse by the workers. Contaminated clothing should not
be taken home at end of shift, but should remain at employee's place of work for
cleaning.
Stability/Shelf Life:
ACID GLUTARALDEHYDE IS MORE STABLE
THAN ALKALINE GLUTARALDEHYDE
STABLE IN LIGHT, OXIDIZES IN AIR, POLYMERIZES IN HEAT
ALKALINE SOLUTION DEPOSITS POLYMERIC FILM AFTER FEW HR
GLUTARAL LOSES ACTIVITY WITHIN 2 WK
AFTER PREPN
Disposal Methods:
SRP: At the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial (sanitary
landfill) disposal practices are subject to significant revision. Prior to
implementing land disposal of waste residue (including waste sludge), consult
with environmental regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal
practices.
Occupational Exposure Standards:
Threshold Limit Values:
Ceiling Limit: 0.05 ppm, sensitizer. /Activated and inactivated/
A4; Not classifiable as a human carcinogen.
NIOSH Recommendations:
Recommended Exposure Limit: Ceiling value: 0.2 ppm (0.8 mg/cu m).
Manufacturing/Use Information:
Major Uses:
For Glutaraldehyde (USEPA/OPP
Pesticide Code: 043901) ACTIVE products with label matches. /SRP: Registered for
use in the U.S. but approved pesticide uses may change periodically and so
federal, state and local authorities must be consulted for currently approved
uses./
EMBALMING FLUID
Intermediate; cross-linking protein and polyhydroxy materials; tanning of
soft leathers
CHEM INT FOR ADHESIVES, SEALANTS, ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS
In sterilization of endoscopic instruments thermometers, rubber or plastic
equipment which cannot be heat sterilized
Used as a biocide in the oil industry
The most popular enzyme cross-linking reagent; microbiol cells are also
cross-linked with glutaraldehyde to
yield cell pellets
Skin disinfectant
DISINFECTANT THAT IS VERY GOOD NOT ONLY AGAINST VEGETATIVE BACTERIA BUT ALSO
AGAINST SPORES. ITS EFFICACY AGAINST FUNGI & VIRUSES IS GOOD.
...DISINFECTANT OF CHOICE FOR COLD STERILIZATION OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS BUT IS
BEING DISPLACED BY ETHYLENE OXIDE... GLUTARALDEHYDE AEROSOLS ARE ALSO USED TO
"STERILIZE" HOSPITAL ROOMS; OPERATING AREAS, ETC. ACID GLUTARALDEHYDE IS MORE EFFECTIVE THAN ALKALINE
GLUTARALDEHYDE...
Polysciences, Inc., 400 Valley Rd., Warrington, PA 18976, (800) 523-2575;
Production site: Warrington, PA 18976
Union Carbide Corp., 39 Old Ridgebury Rd., Danbury, CT 06817-001, (203)
794-2000; Production site: Institute, WV 25103
Vinings Industries, Inc., 245 TownPark Drive, Suite 200, Kennesaw, GA 30144,
(800) 347-1542; Production site: Marietta, GA 30060
Methods of Manufacturing:
THE 1:1 DIELS-ALDER ADDUCT OF ACROLEIN & VINYL ALKYL ETHER IS HYDROLYZED
YIELDING GLUTARALDEHYDE & ALKANOL.
Prepared by heating 2-ethoxy-3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran with aq HCl
General Manufacturing Information:
COST & LACK OF STABILITY ARE IMPORTANT DRAWBACKS TO ITS USE.
NEITHER ALKALINE NOR ACIDIC SOLN IS DAMAGING TO MOST SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS.
ALKALINE DEPOSITS POLYMERIC FILM AFTER FEW HR.
...SUPERIOR TO FORMALDEHYDE AS STERILIZING AGENT. ... /AS 2% ALKALINE SOLN IN
70% ISOPROPANOL/...PERIOD OF 10 HR IS NECESSARY TO STERILIZE DRIED SPORES.
...ACIDIC /GLUTARALDEHYDE/ SOLN KILLS
DRIED SPORES IN 20 MIN...
IT HAS BEEN MARKETED AS 2% ALKALINE SOLN IN 70% ISOPROPANOL...
CIDEX (ARBROOK) TOPICAL: SOLN (AQ)
2%.
Grades: 99%; 50% biological soln; 25% soln.
EMPLOYED AS 25% SOLN IN WATER FOR EMBALMING FLUID.
2% AQ SOLN BUFFERED WITH 0.3% SODIUM CARBONATE TO PH OF 7.5-8.5 IS USEFUL FOR
DISINFECTION AND STERILIZATION OF ENDOSCOPIC INSTRUMENTS & PLASTIC &
RUBBER APPARATUS USED FOR INHALATION THERAPY & ANESTHESIA.
Electron microscopy grade is highly purified
Biocide; supplied in acid solution and subsequently buffered to pH 8
U. S. Production:
(1974) PROBABLY GREATER THAN 4.54X10+5 GRAMS
(1976) PROBABLY GREATER THAN 2.27X10+6 GRAMS
Laboratory Methods:
Analytic Laboratory Methods:
OSHA Method No. 64 Glutaraldehyde
Issue June 1987. HPLC/UV Reliable quantitation limit = 18 ug/cu m.
NIOSH Method 2531. Determination of Glutaraldehyde by High Performance Liquid
Chromatography with UV Detection. This method is applicable to air samples.
Detection limit = 0.01 mg/cu m.
Special References:
Special Reports:
DHHS/NTP; NTP Technical Report on Toxicity Studies of Glutaraldehyde Administered by Inhalation to
F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice. Toxicity Rpt Series No. 25 NIH Publication No.
93-3348 (1993)
Toxicology & Carcinogenesis Studies of Glutaraldehyde in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice
p.5 Technical Report Series No. 490 (1999) NIH Publication No. 99-3980 U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, National Toxicology Program, National
Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
IT HAS BEEN MARKETED AS 2% ALKALINE SOLN IN 70% ISOPROPANOL...
CIDEX (ARBROOK) TOPICAL: SOLN (AQ)
2%.
Grades: 99%; 50% biological soln; 25% soln.
EMPLOYED AS 25% SOLN IN WATER FOR EMBALMING FLUID.
2% AQ SOLN BUFFERED WITH 0.3% SODIUM CARBONATE TO PH OF 7.5-8.5 IS USEFUL FOR
DISINFECTION AND STERILIZATION OF ENDOSCOPIC INSTRUMENTS & PLASTIC &
RUBBER APPARATUS USED FOR INHALATION THERAPY & ANESTHESIA.
Electron microscopy grade is highly purified
Biocide; supplied in acid solution and subsequently buffered to pH 8