| hazard signal | Danger |
| hazard classes and categories | Acute Tox. 4 (100%)Carc. 1B (100%)Acute toxicity (Oral) - Category 4Germ cell mutagenicity - Category 2Carcinogenicity - Category 1ASpecific target organ toxicity - Single exposure - Category 1 (central nervous system)Specific target organ toxicity - Repeated exposure - Category 1 (kidney, blood)Carcinogenicity - Category 1BSpecific target organ toxicity - Repeated exposure - Category 1 (kidney, nervous system, blood system)Carcinogens |
| precautionary statement codes | P203, P264, P270, P280, P301+P317, P318, P330, P405, and P501 |
| hazard statements | H302 (100%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]H350 (100%): May cause cancer [Danger Carcinogenicity] |
| hazards summary | The major hazards encountered in the use and handling of phenacetin stem from its toxicologic properties. Exposure to this odorless, white crystalline substance can occur from its manufacture, handling, and use as an analgesic medication, and stabilizer for hydrogen peroxide in hair bleaching preparations. Effects from exposure may include light-headedness, skin rash, methemoglobinemia, hemolytic anemia, renal papillary necrosis, convulsions, and coma. Also, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has designated phenacetin as a Group 2A carcinogen, meaning, "The agent is probably carcinogenic to humans." Mechanical ventilation which employs a high efficiency particulate arrestor (HEPA) should be used to minimize airborne levels of phenacetin. In activities and situations where over-exposure may occur, wear a protective suit and a carefully fitted respirator. Smoking, drinking, and eating should be prohibited in phenacetin work areas, and cleanliness following the handling of phenacetin should be emphasized. Phenacetin should be stored in a securely sealed, watertight container, which should be enclosed in a second, unbreakable, leakproof container. Phenacetin is a potential candidate for rotary kiln and fluidized bed forms of incineration. |