Chemical Properties
Sodium bisulfite is a white crystalline solid. Slight odor of sulfur dioxide and a disagreeable taste. Slowly oxidized to the sulfate on exposure to air
Potential Exposure
Sodium bisulfite is used in the digestion of wood pulp, in the tanning of leather; in the dyeing of textiles; as a photographic reducing agent; as a food preservative; as an additive in electroplating; as disinfectant, bleach, antioxidant, and as inhibitor of yeast and bacteria in winemaking.
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 oxygen if breathing is difficult. Remove and isolate contaminated 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
UN2693 Bisulfites, inorganic, aqueous solutions, n.o.s., Hazard class: 8; Labels: 8-Corrosive material. UN3260 Bisulfites, inorganic, solid, n.o.s., Hazard class: 8; Labels: 8-Corrosive material.
Incompatibilities
Aqueous solution is a weak acid. Incompatible with strong mineral acids forming a toxic sulfur dioxide gas. A strong reducing agent, sodium bisulfite is incompatible with oxidizers, such as perchlorates, peroxides, permanganates, chlorates, and nitrates. Reacts with bases forming sulfate. Slowly oxidizes to sulfate in air. Heat causes decomposition. Slowly oxidized to the sulfate on exposure to air. Contact with oxidizers or acids forms sulfur dioxide gas. Attacks some metals in the presence of moisture.
Waste Disposal
Dump into water, add soda ash, then neutralize with HCl; flush to sewer with large volumes of water.
