Sodium fluoride-Hazard and Toxicity

Description

Sodium fluoride is colorless crystals or shiny white powder, belongs to tetragonal system, is positive hexahedral or octahedral crystals. It is slightly soluble in alcohol, soluble in water. Aqueous solution is acidic. It dissolves in hydrofluoric acid to form sodium hydrogen fluoride.

Toxicity Data

LD50 oral (rat) 245 mg/kg (potassium fluoride); 52 mg/kg (sodium fluoride); 377 mg/kg (stannous fluoride)

PEL (OSHA) 2.5 mg/m3

TLV-TWA (ACGIH) 2.5 mg/m3

Major Hazards

Moderate acute toxicity; irritating to eyes and respiratory tract. The acute toxicity of fluorides is generally moderate. High exposures may cause irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract. Ingestion of fluoride may cause a salty or soapy taste, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, shortness of breath, difficulty in speaking, thirst, weak pulse, disturbed color vision, muscular weakness, convulsions, loss of consciousness, and death. In humans the approximate lethal dose of NaF by ingestion is 5 g.

Repeated inhalation of fluoride dust may cause excessive calcification of the bone and calcification of ligaments of the ribs, pelvis, and spinal column. Repeated skin contact may cause a rash Fluorides have not been shown to be carcinogenic or to show reproductive or developmental toxicity in humans.

Toxicity

The acute toxicity of fluorides is generally moderate. High exposures may cause irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract. Ingestion of fluoride may cause a salty or soapy taste, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, shortness of breath, difficulty in speaking, thirst, weak pulse, disturbed color vision, muscular weakness, convulsions, loss of consciousness, and death.

In humans the approximate lethal dose of NaF by ingestion is 5 g. Repeated inhalation of fluoride dust may cause excessive calcification of the bone and calcification of ligaments of the ribs, pelvis, and spinal column. Repeated skin contact may cause a rash Fluorides have not been shown to be carcinogenic or to show reproductive or developmental toxicity in humans.

Reactivity and Incompatibility

Contact with strong acids may cause formation of highly toxic and corrosive hydrogen fluoride.

Accidents

In the event of skin contact, immediately wash with soap and water and remove contaminated clothing. In case of eye contact, promptly wash with copious amounts of water for 15 min (lifting upper and lower lids occasionally) and obtain medical attention. If fluorides are ingested, obtain medical attention immediately. If large amounts of fluorides are inhaled, move the person to fresh air and seek medical attention at once.

Accidents

 In the event of a spill, sweep up fluorides, place in an appropriate container, and dispose of properly. Respiratory protection may be necessary in the event of a large spill or release in a confined area.

Disposal

Excess fluorides and waste material containing this substance should be placed in an appropriate container, clearly labeled, and handled according to your institution's waste disposal guidelines.

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