UN 1173 — Ethyl acetate

Ethyl acetate, also known as Acetic acid ethyl ester, is a highly flammable liquid with a characteristic sweet, fruity odor. It is widely used as a solvent in various industrial applications, including paint, coatings, and adhesives. As a result, first responders may encounter ethyl acetate during transportation accidents, industrial fires, or spills. With a large scale of production and transportation, the risk of ethyl acetate exposure is significant. The DOT classifies ethyl acetate as a Class 3 flammable liquid, and it is essential for first responders to understand its hazards and response procedures. Ethyl acetate is a common chemical used in many industries, and its flammability and explosiveness make it a significant concern for emergency responders.

Hazard overview: Ethyl acetate is highly flammable, with a flash point of -4°C (24°F) and a boiling point of 77°C (171°F). Its vapors are heavier than air, with a vapor density of 3.0, and may form explosive mixtures with air. The vapors can travel to the source of ignition and flash back, posing a significant risk of fire and explosion. Prolonged exposure to ethyl acetate vapors can cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, and nausea. The LC50 value for ethyl acetate is not well-established, but it is known to be toxic at high concentrations. In the worst-case scenario, a large spill or fire involving ethyl acetate can lead to a vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors, or in sewers, putting first responders and the public at risk. Ethyl acetate is also slightly soluble in water, which can affect its behavior in aquatic environments.

Response guidance: In the event of an ethyl acetate spill or fire, first responders should isolate the area 50m in all directions and evacuate 800m downwind if the tank or rail car is involved in the fire. The correct suppression agent for ethyl acetate is alcohol-resistant foam, CO2, dry chemical, or water spray for cooling. Decontamination procedures should be followed, and CHEMTREC should be contacted for guidance. It is essential to use Level B minimum PPE, including SCBA and chemical-resistant suits, when responding to ethyl acetate incidents. First responders should also be aware of the potential for vapor explosion hazards and take necessary precautions to mitigate this risk.

Firefighter training notes: First responders should be trained to recognize the hazards of ethyl acetate and respond accordingly. A common tactical error when responding to ethyl acetate incidents is underestimating the risk of vapor explosion. First responders should be aware of the potential for vapor explosion hazards and take necessary precautions to mitigate this risk. The ICS position of Operations Section Chief should be notified of any ethyl acetate incidents, and mutual aid criteria should be established to ensure adequate resources are available to respond to the incident.

Regulatory context: Ethyl acetate is classified as a Class 3 flammable liquid by the DOT. The OSHA PEL for ethyl acetate is 400 ppm, and the TLV is 200 ppm. Ethyl acetate is not listed on the CERCLA list, but it is subject to regulations under the Clean Air Act and the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act.

Storage & handling: Ethyl acetate should be stored in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and ignition sources. The temperature limit for storing ethyl acetate is not well-established, but it should be kept away from incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers and acids. The container type for storing ethyl acetate should be a tightly sealed, chemical-resistant container, and the ventilation standard should be designed to prevent the accumulation of vapors.