Potential Exposure
Cycasin occurs naturally, in the seeds,
roots, and leaves of cycad plants which are found in the
tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Nuts from the
cycads are used to make chips, flour, and starch. Cycasin is
not produced or used commercially. The major potential
Exposure is the ingestion of the foods containing cycasin. It is estimated that about 50 55% of the inhabitants of
Guam are potentially exposed (50,000 60,000 persons) to
cycasin. Wastewater from the preparation of the cycad nuts
contain large amounts of cycasin and represents a potential
secondary exposure source.
First aid
Move victim to fresh air. Call 911 or emergency
medical service. Give artificial respiration if victim is not
breathing. Do not use mouth-to-mouth method if victim
ingested or inhaled the substance; give artificial respiration
with the aid of a pocket mask equipped with a one-way valve
or other proper respiratory medical device. Administer oxy-
gen if breathing is difficult. Remove and isolate contami-
nated clothing and shoes. In case of contact with substance,
immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at
least 20 minutes. For minor skin contact, Avoid spreading
material on unaffected skin. Keep victim warm and quiet.
Effects of exposure (inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact) to
substance may be delayed. Ensure that medical personnel
are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to
protect themselves. Medical observation is recommended for
24 to 48 hours after breathing overexposure, as pulmonary
edema may be delayed. As first aid for pulmonary edema, a
doctor or authorized paramedic may consider administering
a drug or other inhalation therapy.
Shipping
UN2811 Toxic solids, organic, n.o.s., Hazard
Class: 6.1; Labels: 6.1-Poisonous materials, Technical
Name Required.
Incompatibilities
Material hydrolyzed under alkaline
conditions
.
Description
Cycasin is a crystalline solid. Molecularweight=252.08; Freezing/Melting point=(decomposes)154℃. Hazard Identification (based on NFPA-704 MRating System): Health 2, Flammability 2, Reactivity 0.
Chemical Properties
Cycasin is a crystalline solid with long nee-
dles.
Waste Disposal
Disposal of unused product
must be undertaken by qualified personnel who are knowl-
edgeable in all applicable regulations and follow all perti-
nent safety precautions including the use of appropriate
protective equipment. For proper handling and disposal,
always comply with federal, state, and local regulations. At
the time of review, criteria for land treatment or burial
(sanitary landfill) disposal practices are subject to signifi-
cant revision. Prior to implementing land disposal of waste
residue (including waste sludge), consult with environmen-
tal regulatory agencies for guidance on acceptable disposal
practices
.
storage
Color Code—Blue: Health Hazard/Poison: Storein a secure poison location. Prior to working with cycasinyou should be trained on its proper handling and storage. Aregulated, marked area should be established where thischemical is handled, used, or stored in compliance withOSHA Standard 1910.1045. Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area.