vinegar material safety data sheet

3 min read 02-12-2024

Introduction: This document provides essential safety information regarding vinegar, specifically distilled white vinegar, a common household and industrial chemical. While generally considered safe, understanding its properties and potential hazards is crucial for safe handling and storage. This MSDS should be readily available to all individuals handling vinegar.

Section 1: Identification

Product Name: Distilled White Vinegar

Synonyms: Acetic acid solution (5% solution), White vinegar

Chemical Formula: CH₃COOH (Acetic acid in water)

CAS Number: 64-19-7 (Acetic Acid)

Recommended Use: Food preservation, cleaning agent, household use, industrial applications.

Supplier: [Insert Supplier Name and Contact Information Here]

Section 2: Hazards Identification

Hazards Classification (GHS):

Eye irritation: Category 2A
Skin irritation: Category 2
Skin corrosion/irritation: Category 1

Potential Health Effects:

Eye Contact: Can cause burning, redness, and irritation. May cause serious eye damage in high concentrations or prolonged exposure.
Skin Contact: Prolonged or repeated contact can cause skin irritation, dryness, and redness.
Ingestion: May cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and esophagus. Large quantities may cause gastrointestinal distress. Vinegar is generally considered safe for consumption in diluted amounts as a food.
Inhalation: Inhaling high concentrations of vinegar mist may irritate the respiratory tract.

Section 3: Composition/Information on Ingredients

Component: Acetic acid

Concentration: Approximately 5% (This may vary depending on the brand)

Other Ingredients: Water

Section 4: First-aid Measures

Eye Contact: Immediately flush eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Skin Contact: Wash affected area thoroughly with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Ingestion: Do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse mouth with water. Drink plenty of water. Seek medical attention if symptoms occur.

Inhalation: Remove to fresh air. Seek medical attention if breathing difficulties occur.

Section 5: Fire-Fighting Measures

Suitable Extinguishing Media: Water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide.

Specific Hazards: Vinegar is not flammable under normal conditions. However, high concentrations of acetic acid vapor can be flammable.

Special Protective Equipment: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and appropriate protective clothing.

Section 6: Accidental Release Measures

Personal Precautions: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and eye protection. Ensure adequate ventilation.

Environmental Precautions: Prevent spillage from entering drains or waterways.

Clean-up Methods: Absorb spill with inert material (e.g., sand, vermiculite). Dispose of waste according to local regulations.

Section 7: Handling and Storage

Handling: Avoid contact with eyes and skin. Use in well-ventilated areas.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials. Keep container tightly closed.

Section 8: Exposure Controls/Personal Protection

Engineering Controls: Use local exhaust ventilation or other engineering controls to maintain air concentrations below recommended exposure limits.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, eye protection, and appropriate respiratory protection may be necessary depending on the concentration and exposure level. Consult with a safety professional for specific recommendations.

Section 9: Physical and Chemical Properties

Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid.

Odor: Pungent, acetic odor.

pH: Approximately 2.4 (This can vary slightly)

Boiling Point: 118°C (244°F) (This refers to pure acetic acid, not the 5% solution)

Specific Gravity: Approximately 1.00 (This can vary slightly)

Section 10: Stability and Reactivity

Stability: Stable under normal conditions.

Incompatible Materials: Strong oxidizers, strong bases.

Hazardous Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide.

Section 11: Toxicological Information

Refer to Section 2 for potential health effects. For more detailed toxicological information, consult relevant literature on acetic acid.

Section 12: Ecological Information

Vinegar is considered biodegradable. Avoid large spills into the environment.

Section 13: Disposal Considerations

Dispose of in accordance with all applicable local, regional, and national regulations.

Section 14: Transport Information

Not regulated for transport under normal conditions.

Section 15: Regulatory Information

Complies with all relevant regulations. Check with local authorities for specific requirements.

Section 16: Other Information

This MSDS is for informational purposes only. Always refer to the current SDS provided by the supplier for the most up-to-date information. The information provided herein is believed to be accurate, but no guarantee is given. Users are responsible for ensuring safe handling practices.

Disclaimer: This is a sample MSDS and may not cover all aspects specific to every brand of vinegar. Always consult the MSDS provided by the manufacturer of the specific vinegar product you are using.