Chemical of the Week Part 2 - Sodium Hypochlorite

Hazard Profile

Chemical Name and Pseudonyms

Sodium Hypochlorite, Antiformin, Bleach, Sodium Chloroxide, Chloride of Soda

UN Number

1791

Chemical Formula

NaClO

Hazards

Oxidizer

PPE Considerations

Splash protective garment with SCBA

Fire Fighting Considerations

Extinguishing agent based on combustibles involved in fire.  Smoke may contain halogen compounds. 

Decontamination

Soap and water with adequate ventilation.

Detection and Monitoring

Colormetric, electrochemical sensor, chemical reactivity assessment (i.e. HazCat), FTIR, GCMS

Chemical and Physical Properties

Physical State

Yellow to colorless (when diluted) liquid

Vapor Pressure

12-17.5 mm/Hg

Boiling Point

230^oF

Vapor Density

-

Specific Gravity

-

Miscibility

Soluble

Flash Point

-

LEL/UEL

-

Autoignition Temp

-

pH

11.5-13

Toxicity

IDLH

50 ppm

PEL/REL/STEL

2/2/2 mg/m³

LD50

325 mg/kg

LC50

-

Radioactive (Yes/No)

No

Medical

Toxicological Considerations

Exposure by all routes 

Signs/Symptoms of Exposure

Burns skin, mucous membranes, digestive tract, and eyes,

Medical Treatment

Flush with water and treat symptomatically

Other Information

Mixing with acids or ammonia releases toxic gas

Chemical Structure