Polyethylene glycol PEG-800 (CAS No.: 25322-68-3) is a high molecular weight polymer. According to the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS), this product is not classified as a hazardous substance or mixture and has no physical, health, or environmental hazard label elements. Its acute oral toxicity is extremely low (rat LD₅₀ > 5,000 mg/kg), and the results of skin irritation tests, eye irritation tests, and skin sensitization tests are all negative. The Ames mutagenicity test is also negative, indicating a very low safety risk to humans under normal use conditions.
Although PEG-800 itself has high safety, the following points should still be noted during operation: the product has a certain hygroscopicity, and should be sealed and stored promptly after opening; when melting by heating, avoid excessive temperature to prevent the generation of irritating vapors or degradation products; the workplace should be well-ventilated to prevent dust accumulation. Chemical safety goggles and protective gloves (e.g., nitrile rubber) should be worn as routine industrial hygiene measures.
In terms of storage, it is recommended to store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated warehouse. The recommended storage temperature is not higher than 40°C, away from direct sunlight. Keep away from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong alkalis. The product is not flammable (closed cup flash point approx. 240–270°C), but it can melt and burn at high temperatures, so it should still be kept away from heat sources and open flames.
| Safety Category | Specific Requirements |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Wear chemical safety goggles, nitrile rubber gloves, and ordinary work clothes; wear N95 dust mask when dust is present. |
| Ventilation Requirements | Maintain good ventilation in the workplace, with local exhaust or general ventilation recommended. |
| Storage Temperature | Not higher than 40°C, cool and dry place, sealed to prevent moisture. |
| Incompatible Substances | Keep away from strong oxidizers, strong acids, and strong alkalis. |
| Heating Precautions | Avoid overheating, control heating temperature below the flash point. |
Skin contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water and soap, and remove contaminated clothing. If irritation occurs, seek medical help. Eye contact: Hold eyelids open and rinse continuously with flowing water for at least 15 minutes; if discomfort persists, seek medical attention. Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting (unless instructed by medical personnel), rinse mouth with water and slowly drink 200-300 ml of water, then seek medical attention. Inhalation: Move the person to fresh air; if discomfort persists, seek medical attention immediately.
Spill treatment: For small spills, collect with a broom or shovel into a sealed container to avoid dust dispersion, and wipe up residues with a damp cloth. For large spills, contain and collect using inert materials (e.g., sand, vermiculite), and avoid discharge into drains or the environment. Extinguishing media can be water spray, foam, dry powder, or carbon dioxide.