Medical Management Guidelines for 1,1,1-Trichloroethane
(CH3CCl3)
CAS# 71-55-6
UN# 2831
PDF Versionpdf icon[176 KB]
Synonyms include α-T, α-trichloroethane, chloroethene, methylchloroform, methyltrichloromethane, TCEA, and trichloromethylmethane.
- Persons exposed only to 1,1,1-trichloroethane vapor pose
no risk of secondary contamination. Persons whose skin or
clothing is contaminated with liquid 1,1,1-trichloroethane
can contaminate response personnel by direct contact or
through off-gassing of vapor.
- 1,1,1-Trichloroethane is a colorless, volatile,
nonflammable liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like odor. The
vapor is heavier than air and can collect to toxic levels in
poorly ventilated spaces. Odor generally provides adequate
warning of hazardous concentrations.
- 1,1,1-Trichloroethane is rapidly absorbed if inhaled or
ingested. Dermal absorption is slow and does not contribute
significantly to systemic toxicity. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane
crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk.
General Information
Description
1,1,1-Trichloroethane is a colorless, nonflammable liquid. It evaporates quickly and has a sweet, chloroform-like odor. It has only negligible solubility in water, but it is miscible in most organic solvents. It can explode if concentrations of 7.5% to 15.5% in air are ignited by a spark or flame. At temperatures higher than 500 °F (>260 °C), 1,1,1-trichloroethane decomposes to form hydrogen chloride and trace amounts of phosgene, which are severe pulmonary irritants. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane should be stored at ambient temperature in a well-ventilated area away from metals, open flames, and moisture.
Routes of Exposure
Inhalation
Inhalation is the most important route of exposure, and 1,1,1-trichloroethane is readily absorbed from the lungs. The odor threshold for 1,1,1-trichloroethane is 44 ppm, which is about one-eighth of the OSHA PEL. Odor is an adequate warning of hazardous concentrations. The vapor is heavier than air and can collect to toxic levels in poorly ventilated or low-lying spaces. A one hour exposure to 1,000 ppm can cause dizziness and loss of coordination.
Central nervous system (CNS) depression generally begins at
5,000 ppm. Levels of 10,000 ppm or higher can cause
sedation, hypotension, cardiac dysrhythmia, coma, and death.
Children exposed to the same levels of
1,1,1-trichloroethane vapor as adults may receive a larger
dose because they have greater lung surface area:body weight
ratios and increased minute volumes:weight ratios. In
addition, they may be exposed to higher levels than adults
in the same location because of their short stature and the
higher levels of 1,1,1-trichloroethane vapor found nearer to
the ground.
Skin/Eye Contact
Transient chemical conjunctivitis can
result from exposure to high levels of vapor or direct
contact with liquid 1,1,1-trichloroethane. The liquid is
mildly irritating to the skin. Because absorption across
intact skin is slow, systemic toxicity is unlikely unless
liquid on the skin is prevented from evaporating by heavy
clothing or other impermeable covering.
Children are more vulnerable to
toxicants affecting the skin because of their relatively
larger surface area:body weight ratio.
Ingestion
Gastrointestinal absorption is rapid and can cause systemic effects similar to those seen with inhalation exposure.
Sources/Uses
1,1,1-Trichloroethane is a synthetic
chemical that was first developed as a safer substitute for
other chlorinated and flammable solvents. The most common
method for industrial production of 1,1,1-trichloroethane is
the reaction of hydrochloric acid with vinyl chloride to
obtain 1,1-dichloroethane, followed by either thermal or
photochemical chlorination. In industry, it has been widely
used as a solvent and as a cold cleaning and vapor
degreasing agent. It was used in many household products,
including aerosol sprays, spot cleaners, glues, and
lubricants. While it is no longer used for such products, it
is likely that some of these may still be found in homes,
garages, workshops, and hazardous waste sites. It has been
intentionally abused for its CNS-intoxicating effects. At
one time, it was used as an anesthetic agent. Because
1,1,1-trichloroethane damages the ozone layer, production in
the United States was phased out in 1996, but supplies as a
raw material will be available until the year 2002.
Standards and Guidelines
OSHA PEL (permissible exposure limit) =
350 ppm (averaged over an 8-hour workshift)
NIOSH IDLH (immediately dangerous to
life or health) = 700 ppm
AIHA ERPG-2 (emergency response
planning guideline) (maximum airborne concentration below
which it is believed that nearly all individuals could be
exposed for up to 1 hour without experiencing or developing
irreversible or other serious health effects or symptoms
which could impair an individual's ability to take
protective action) = 700 ppm.
Physical Properties
Description: colorless,
nonflammable liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like odor
Warning properties: odor
detectable at 44 ppm; generally adequate warning to avoid
acute, high-level exposure.
Molecular weight: 133.40 daltons
Boiling point (760 mm Hg):
165.38 °F (74.1 °C)
Freezing point: -23 °F (-30.56 °C)
Specific gravity: 1.34 at 68 °F
(20 °C) (water = 1)
Vapor pressure: 100 mm Hg at
68 °F (20 °C)
Gas density: 4.63 (air = 1)
Water solubility: Negligible,
0.4% at 68 °F (20 °C)
Flammability: considered
nonflammable and usually requires preheating before it will
burn. Under extraordinary circumstances of high-energy
ignition (e.g., blasting cap) or a high-oxygen atmosphere,
the vapors can be ignited and will burn or explode.
Flammable range: 7.5% to 15.5%
(concentration in air).
Incompatibilities
1,1,1-Trichloroethane can decompose to
form hydrogen chloride gas when it comes in contact with
strong caustics, strong oxidizers, or chemically active
metals like zinc, sodium or potassium, or aluminum and
magnesium powders. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane reacts slowly with
water to form hydrochloric acid and forms trace amounts of
phosgene when ignited or burned above 260 °C.
Health Effects
- 1,1,1-Trichloroethane is irritating to the skin and
eyes. Inhalation or ingestion of 1,1,1-trichloroethane can
produce headache, dizziness, and lack or coordination (at
moderate exposure levels, >1,000 ppm) and stupor or coma (at
high exposure levels, >10,000 ppm).
- CNS and respiratory depression or cardiac dysrhythmia
(from high-level exposures) can result in death. Other
effects include hypotension, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- 1,1,1-Trichloroethane sensitizes the heart to
epinephrine, making it more susceptible to
epinephrine-induced arrhythmias.
- The effects of 1,1,1-trichloroethane on the CNS are
thought to be due to direct interaction of
1,1,1-trichloroethane with proteinaceous components of
membranes. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane crosses the placenta and is
excreted in breast milk.
Acute Exposure
1,1,1-Trichloroethane is thought to
depress the CNS via a solvent effect on lipids and protein
components of neural membranes. It sensitizes the heart to
epinephrine, making it more susceptible to
epinephrine-induced arrhythmias. Direct exposure to liquid
1,1,1-trichloroethane degreases the skin, causing redness,
blistering, and scaling.
Children do not always respond to
chemicals in the same way that adults do. Different
protocols for managing their care may be needed.
CNS
1,1,1-Trichloroethane causes
concentration-related CNS depression. Symptoms can include
euphoria, headache, dizziness, malaise, hallucinations or
distorted perceptions, behavioral changes, ataxia, seizures,
sedation, coma, cerebral edema, and death. CNS effects
resolve quickly when the victim is removed from further
exposure.
Cardiovascular
Inhalation of high concentrations can
cause hypotension and dysrhythmia. 1,1,1-Trichloroethane
sensitizes the heart to epinephrine. Physical exertion,
stress, or other stimuli resulting in epinephrine release
can trigger dysrhythmia and result in sudden death.
Gastrointestinal
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can
occur following ingestion or inhalation of a high dose
(3,000-10,000 ppm) of 1,1,1-trichloroethane. Ingestion can
produce a burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and
esophagus.
Respiratory
Inhalation of 1,1,1-trichloroethane can
lead to respiratory arrest due to CNS depression and may
also cause pulmonary edema.
Children may be more vulnerable because
of relatively increased minute ventilation per kg and
failure to evacuate an area promptly when exposed.
Hydrocarbon pneumonitis may be a
problem in children.
Hepatic
Although there are no reports of
toxicity at low concentrations, hepatic lipidosis,
macronodular cirrhosis, and transient hepatitis have been
reported following high-level inhalation exposures.
Dermal
Direct skin exposure to liquid
1,1,1-trichloroethane can cause a burning sensation,
erythema, and blistering.
Because of their relatively larger
surface area:body weight ratio, children are more vulnerable
to toxicants affecting the skin.
Ocular
Exposure to 1,1,1-trichloroethane vapor
(>500 ppm for 1 hour) and direct contact with the liquid can
cause irritation or transient conjunctivitis.
Potential Sequelae
Some survivors of severe, acute
exposures (e.g., involving coma or respiratory arrest)
suffer brain or cardiac damage due to hypoxia.
Chronic Exposure
Chronic exposure can cause lethargy,
impaired memory, and impaired balance. Chronic skin exposure
can cause irritant contact dermatitis.
Chronic exposure may be more serious
for children because of their potential longer latency
period.
Carcinogenicity
1,1,1-Trichloroethane has been assessed
for carcinogenic effects; the International Agency for
Research on Cancer (IARC) has assigned 1,1,1-trichloroethane
to Group 3 (not classifiable as to carcinogenicity in
humans) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has
assigned it to Group D (not classifiable as to
carcinogenicity in humans) based on inadequate evidence of
cancer for humans and experimental animals.
Reproductive and Developmental Effects
1,1,1-Trichloroethane is not included
in Reproductive and Developmental Toxicants, a 1991
report published by the U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO)
that lists 30 chemicals of concern because of widely
acknowledged reproductive and developmental consequences.
Adverse reproductive or developmental effects in humans have
not been reported and animal studies do not suggest that
1,1,1-trichloroethane is a reproductive or developmental
toxicant although it crosses the placenta and is excreted in
breast milk
Prehospital Management
- Victims exposed only to 1,1,1-trichloroethane vapor pose
no risk of secondary contamination to rescuers. Victims
whose skin or clothing is contaminated with liquid
1,1,1-trichloroethane can contaminate rescuers by direct
contact or through off-gassing of vapor. Vomitus from
patients who have ingested 1,1,1-trichloroethane can also
off-gas the vapor.
- 1,1,1-Trichloroethane is irritating to the skin and
eyes. Inhalation or ingestion of 1,1,1-trichloroethane can
lead to headache, dizziness, lack of coordination, stupor,
coma, CNS and respiratory depression, and cardiac
dysrhythmia. Other effects include hypotension, nausea,
vomiting, and diarrhea.
- There is no antidote for 1,1,1-trichloroethane.
Treatment consists of support of respiratory and
cardiovascular functions.
Hot Zone
Rescuers should be trained and
appropriately attired before entering the Hot Zone. If the
proper equipment is not available, or if the rescuers have
not been trained in its use, call for assistance from a
local or regional HAZMAT team or other properly equipped
response organization.
Rescuer Protection
1,1,1-Trichloroethane vapor is readily
absorbed by inhalation and is a respiratory tract irritant.
The liquid is a mild skin irritant with minimal absorption
through the skin.
Respiratory Protection:
Positive-pressure, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
is recommended in response situations that involve exposure
to potentially unsafe levels of 1,1,1-trichloroethane vapor.
Skin Protection:
Chemical-protective clothing is not generally required when
only vapor exposure is expected: 1,1,1-Trichloroethane vapor
is only mildly irritating and is not absorbed well through
the skin. Chemical-protective clothing is recommended when
extensive skin contact with the liquid might occur.
ABC Reminders
Quickly access for a patent airway,
ensure adequate respiration and pulse. Provide supplemental
oxygen if cardiopulmonary compromise is suspected. If trauma
is suspected, maintain cervical immobilization manually and
apply a cervical collar and a backboard when feasible.
Victim Removal
If victims can walk, lead them out of
the Hot Zone to the Decontamination Zone. Victims who are
unable to walk should be removed on backboards or gurneys.
If these are not available, carefully carry or drag victims
to safety.
Consider appropriate management of
chemically contaminated children, such as measures to reduce
separation anxiety if a child is separated from a parent or
other adult.
Care should be taken that victims
(particularly children) do not have problems due to
1,1,1-trichloroethane being heavier than air and settling in
pockets close to the ground.
Decontamination Zone
Patients exposed only to
1,1,1-trichloroethane vapor who have no skin or eye
irritation may be transferred immediately to the Support
Zone. Other patients will require decontamination as
described below.
Rescuer Protection
If exposure levels are determined to be
safe, decontamination may be conducted by personnel wearing
a lower level of protection than that worn in the Hot Zone
(described above).
ABC Reminders
Quickly access for a patent airway,
ensure adequate respiration and pulse. Stabilize the
cervical spine with a collar and a backboard if trauma is
suspected. Administer supplemental oxygen as required.
Assist ventilation with a bag-valve-mask device if
necessary.
Basic Decontamination
Victims who are able may assist with
their own decontamination. Quickly remove and double-bag
contaminated clothing and personal belongings.
Flush exposed skin and hair with water
for 3 to 5 minutes. Wash with mild soap and water
(preferably under a shower). Rinse thoroughly with water.
Use caution to avoid hypothermia when decontaminating
children or the elderly. Use blankets or warmers when
appropriate.
Flush exposed eyes with plain water or
saline for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if
easily removable without additional trauma to the eye. If a
corrosive material is suspected or if pain or injury is
evident, continue irrigation while transferring the victim
to the Support Zone.
In cases of ingestion, do not induce
emesis. If the victim is alert, asymptomatic, and has a
gag reflex, administer a slurry of activated charcoal at 1
gm/kg (usual adult dose 60-90 g, child dose 25-50 g). A soda
can and straw may be of assistance when offering charcoal to
a child.
Consider appropriate management of
chemically contaminated children at the exposure site.
Provide reassurance to the child during decontamination,
especially if separation from a parent occurs.
Transfer to Support Zone
As soon as basic decontamination is
complete, move the victim to the Support Zone.
Support Zone
Be certain that victims have been
decontaminated properly (see Decontamination Zone
above). Victims who have undergone decontamination or have
been exposed only to vapor generally pose no serious risks
of secondary contamination. In such cases, Support Zone
personnel require no specialized protective gear.
ABC Reminders
Quickly access for a patent airway. If
trauma is suspected, maintain cervical immobilization
manually and apply a cervical collar and a backboard when
feasible. Ensure adequate respiration and pulse. Administer
supplemental oxygen as required and establish intravenous
access if necessary. Place on a cardiac monitor.
Additional Decontamination
Continue irrigating exposed skin and
eyes, as appropriate.
In cases of ingestion, do not induce
emesis. If activated charcoal has not been given
previously and the victim is alert, asymptomatic, and has a
gag reflex, administer a slurry of activated charcoal at 1
gm/kg (usual adult dose 60-90 g, child dose 25-50 g). A soda
can and straw may be of assistance when offering charcoal to
a child.
Advanced Treatment
In cases of respiratory compromise
secure airway and respiration via endotracheal intubation.
If not possible, perform cricothyroidotomy if equipped and
trained to do so.
Treat patients who have bronchospasm
with aerosolized bronchodilators. The use of bronchial
sensitizing agents in situations of multiple chemical
exposures may pose additional risks. Consider the health of
the myocardium before choosing which type of bronchodilator
should be administered. However, the use of sympathomimetic
agents such as epinephrine and isoproterenol could
precipitate fatal dysrhythmias and should be avoided.
Selective beta-2 agonists would be preferred, but clinical
reports of their use are lacking. Theophylline derivatives
have not been studied. Use all catecholamines with caution
because of the enhanced risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
Patients who are comatose, hypotensive,
or are having seizures or cardiac arrhythmias should be
treated according to advanced life support (ALS) protocols.
Transport to Medical Facility
Only decontaminated patients or
patients not requiring decontamination should be transported
to a medical facility. "Body bags" are not recommended.
Report to the base station and the
receiving medical facility the condition of the patient,
treatment given, and estimated time of arrival at the
medical facility.
If 1,1,1-trichloroethane has been
ingested, prepare the ambulance in case the patient vomits
toxic material. Have ready several towels and open plastic
bags to quickly clean up and isolate vomitus.
Multi-Casualty Triage
Consult with the base physician or the
regional poison control center for advice regarding triage
of multiple victims
Patients with evidence of significant
inhalation exposure such as CNS disruption, breathing
difficulties, or cardiac dysrhythmia and patients who
ingested 1,1,1-trichloroethane should be transported to a
medical facility for evaluation. Others may be discharged
from the scene after their names, addresses, and telephone
numbers are recorded. Those discharged should be advised to
seek medical care promptly if symptoms develop (see
Patient Information Sheet below).
Emergency Department Management
- Patients exposed only to 1,1,1-trichloroethane vapor
pose no risk of secondary contamination to rescuers.
Patients whose skin or clothing is contaminated with liquid
1,1,1-trichloroethane can contaminate rescuers by direct
contact or through off-gassing of vapor. Vomitus from
patients who have ingested 1,1,1-trichloroethane can also
off-gas the vapor.
- 1,1,1-Trichloroethane is irritating to the skin and
eyes. Inhalation or ingestion of 1,1,1-trichloroethane can
lead to headache, dizziness, lack of coordination, stupor,
coma, CNS and respiratory depression, and cardiac
dysrhythmia. Other effects include hypotension, nausea,
vomiting, and diarrhea.
- There is no antidote for 1,1,1-trichloroethane.
Treatment consists of support of respiratory and
cardiovascular functions.
Decontamination Area
Unless previously decontaminated, all
patients suspected of contact with liquid
1,1,1-trichloroethane and all victims with skin or eye
irritation require decontamination as described below. All
other patients may be transferred to the Critical Care area.
Be aware that use of protective
equipment by the provider may cause fear in children,
resulting in decreased compliance with further management
efforts.
Because of their relatively larger
surface area:body weight ratio, children are more vulnerable
to toxicants affecting the skin. Also, emergency room
personnel should examine children's mouths because of the
frequency of hand-to-mouth activity among children.
ABC Reminders
Evaluate and support airway, breathing,
and circulation. In cases of respiratory compromise secure
airway and respiration via endotracheal intubation. If not
possible, surgically create an airway. Provide supplemental
oxygen if cardiopulmonary compromise is suspected.
Treat patients who have bronchospasm
with aerosolized bronchodilators. The use of bronchial
sensitizing agents in situations of multiple chemical
exposures may pose additional risks. Consider the health of
the myocardium before choosing which type of bronchodilator
should be administered. However, the use of sympathomimetic
agents such as epinephrine and isoproterenol could
precipitate fatal dysrhythmias and should be avoided.
Selective beta-2 agonists would be preferred, but clinical
reports of their use are lacking. Theophylline derivatives
have not been studied. Use all catecholamines with caution
because of the enhanced risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
Patients who are comatose, hypotensive,
or have seizures or ventricular arrhythmias should be
treated in the conventional manner. Avoid sympathomimetics
or catecholamines or use them with caution. Beta-blockers
may be more effective than lidocaine in cases of prolonged
or resistant arrhythmias.
Basic Decontamination
Patients who are able may assist with
their own decontamination. Remove and double-bag
contaminated clothing and personal belongings.
Flush exposed skin and hair with water
for 3 to 5 minutes. Wash with mild soap and water
(preferably under a shower). Rinse thoroughly with water.
Use caution to avoid hypothermia when decontaminating
children or the elderly. Use blankets or warmers when
appropriate.
Flush exposed eyes with plain water or
saline for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if
easily removable without additional trauma to the eye. If a
corrosive material is suspected or if pain or injury is
evident, continue irrigation while transferring the victim
to the Critical Care Area.
In cases of ingestion, do not induce
emesis. If activated charcoal has not been given
previously and the victim is alert, asymptomatic, and has a
gag reflex, administer a slurry of activated charcoal at 1
gm/kg (usual adult dose 60-90 g, child dose 25-50 g). A soda
can and straw may be of assistance when offering charcoal to
a child.
Critical Care Area
Be certain that appropriate
decontamination has been carried out (see Decontamination
Area above).
ABC Reminders
Evaluate and support airway, breathing,
and circulation as in ABC Reminders above. Establish
intravenous access in seriously ill patients if this has not
been done previously. Continuously monitor cardiac rhythm.
Patients who are comatose, hypotensive,
or have seizures or ventricular arrhythmias should be
treated in the conventional manner. Avoid sympathomimetics
or catecholamines or use them with caution. Beta-blockers
may be more effective than lidocaine in cases of prolonged
or resistant dysrhythmias.
Inhalation Exposure
Administer supplemental oxygen by mask
to patients who have respiratory complaints. Treat patients
who have bronchospasm with aerosolized bronchodilators. The
use of bronchial sensitizing agents in situations of
multiple chemical exposures may pose additional risks.
Consider the health of the myocardium before choosing which
type of bronchodilator should be administered. However, the
use of sympathomimetic agents such as epinephrine and
isoproterenol could precipitate fatal dysrhythmias and
should be avoided. Selective beta-2 agonists would be
preferred, but clinical reports of their use are lacking.
Theophylline derivatives have not been studied. Use all
catecholamines with caution because of the enhanced risk of
cardiac arrhythmias.
Skin Exposure
If the skin was in prolonged contact
with liquified 1,1,1-trichloroethane, chemical burns might
be present; treat these as thermal burns.
Because of their relatively larger
surface area:body weight ratio, children are more vulnerable
to toxicants absorbed through the skin.
Eye Exposure
Ensure that adequate eye irrigation has
been completed. Examine the eyes for corneal damage and
treat appropriately. Immediately consult an ophthalmologist
for patients who have corneal injuries.
Ingestion Exposure
Do not induce emesis.
If the patient is alert, administer a
slurry of activated charcoal at 1 gm/kg (usual adult dose
60-90 g, child dose 25-50 g), if not done previously. A soda
can and straw may be of assistance when offering charcoal to
a child.
Consider endoscopy to evaluate the
extent of gastrointestinal tract injury. Extreme throat
swelling may require endotracheal intubation or
cricothyroidotomy. Gastric lavage is useful in certain
circumstances to remove toxic material and prepare for
endoscopic examination. Consider gastric lavage with a small
nasogastric tube if: (1) a large dose has been ingested; (2)
the patient's condition is evaluated within 30 minutes; (3)
the patient has oral lesions or persistent esophageal
discomfort; and (4) the lavage can be administered within 1
hour of ingestion. Care must be taken when placing the
gastric tube because blind gastric-tube placement may
further injure the chemically damaged esophagus or stomach.
Because children do not ingest large
amounts of toxic materials, and because of the risk of
perforation from nasogastric intubation, lavage is
discouraged in children unless performed under endoscopic
guidance.
Toxic vomitus or gastric washings
should be isolated, e.g., by attaching the lavage tube to
isolated wall suction or another closed container.
Antidotes and Other Treatments
There is no antidote for
1,1,1-trichloroethane. Treatment is supportive of
respiratory and cardiovascular functions.
Laboratory Tests
The diagnosis of acute
1,1,1-trichloroethane toxicity is primarily clinical, based
on symptoms of CNS disruption or respiratory distress.
However, laboratory testing is useful for monitoring the
patient and evaluating complications. Routine laboratory
studies for seriously exposed patients include CBC, glucose,
electrolytes, and liver enzyme tests. Patients who have
respiratory complaints should be evaluated with pulse
oximetry or ABG measurements and chest radiography.
1,1,1-Trichloroethane levels in blood
or expired air are not clinically useful but can be used to
document an exposure. Exposure to 1,1,1-trichloroethane is
also suggested by detection of trichloroethanol or
trichloroacetic acid in blood or urine; these tests are not
specific for 1,1,1-trichloroethane, however.
Disposition and Follow-up
Consider hospitalizing patients who
have had significant inhalation exposure (e.g., with loss of
consciousness) and patients who have ingested significant
amounts of 1,1,1-trichloroethane.
Patient Release
Patients who have not experienced
alterations in mental status or had initially mild symptoms
and are asymptomatic 6 to 8 hours later may be discharged.
Discharged patients should be instructed to seek medical
care promptly if symptoms develop (see the
1,1,1-Trichloroethane-Patient Information Sheet below).
Follow-up
Obtain the name of the patient's
primary care physician so that the hospital can send a copy
of the ED visit to the patient's doctor.
Follow-up laboratory evaluation of
hepatic function should be arranged for severely exposed
patients. Neurologic examination for post-hypoxic injury is
recommended in cases of severe exposure. Patients who have
skin burns or corneal damage should be re-examined within 24
hours.
Reporting
If a work-related incident has
occurred, you might be legally required to file a report;
contact your state or local health department.
Other persons might still be at risk at
the place where this incident occurred. If the incident
occurred in the workplace, discussing it with company
personnel might prevent future incidents. If a public health
risk exists, notify your state or local health department or
other responsible public agency. When appropriate, inform
patients that they may request an evaluation of their
workplace from the Occupational Safety and health
Administration (OSHA) or the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
Patient Information Sheet
1,1,1-Trichloroethane is a colorless,
volatile, nonflammable liquid with a sweet, chloroform-like
odor. It is used to make other chemicals. It has been used
to clean grease from metal parts. It used to be found in
many household products, such as spot cleaners and glues.
You may still have some of these products in your home,
garage or workshop, although use of 1,1,1-trichloroethane
has been phased out by the EPA because it damages the ozone
layer. Sometimes people intentionally inhale it to get high.
Print this handout only.pdf icon[PDF - 33.8 KB]
What is 1,1,1-trichloroethane?
Breathing or swallowing
1,1,1-trichloroethane can cause lightheadedness, dizziness,
blurred vision, a feeling of excitement, nausea, and
vomiting. Breathing or swallowing large amounts can cause
irregular heart beat, fainting, coma, and even death. If the
skin has been in contact with high levels of
1,1,1-trichloroethane for a long time, a skin rash or burns
might develop. Generally, the more serious the exposure, the
more severe the symptoms.
What immediate health effects can result from 1,1,1-trichloroethane exposure?
There is no antidote for
1,1,1-trichloroethane, but its effects can be treated and
most exposed persons recover completely. Persons who have
swallowed or inhaled large amounts of 1,1,1-trichloroethane
might need to be hospitalized.
Can 1,1,1-trichloroethane poisoning be treated?
Delayed or long-term effects generally
do not occur from single exposures to 1,1,1-trichloroethane.
A high-dose exposure, or an exposure over many years, can
affect the brain, skin, liver, and heart.
Are any future health effects likely to occur?
Specific tests for the presence of
1,1,1-trichloroethane breakdown products in blood and urine
are available, but they are not generally useful to your
doctor. If a severe exposure has occurred, blood and other
tests might show whether the heart or liver has been
damaged. Testing is not needed in every case.
What tests can be done if a person has been exposed to 1,1,1-trichloroethane?
answer
Where can more information about 1,1,1-trichloroethane be found?
More information about
1,1,1-trichloroethane can be obtained from your regional
poison control center; your state, county, or local health
department; the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease
Registry (ATSDR); your doctor; or a clinic in your area that
specializes in occupational and environmental health. If the
exposure happened at work, you may wish to discuss it with
your employer, the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA), or the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Ask the person who
gave you this form for help in locating these telephone
numbers.
Follow-up Instructions
Keep this page and take it with you to
your next appointment. Follow only the instructions
checked below.
Print this handout only.pdf icon[PDF - 33.8 KB]
[ ] Call your doctor or the Emergency
Department if you develop any unusual signs or symptoms
within the next 24 hours, especially:
- Sudden severe weakness, fainting, or dizziness
- irregular heartbeat
- shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing
- increased pain or discharge from injured eyes
[ ] No follow-up appointment is
necessary unless you develop any of the symptoms listed
above.
[ ] Call for an appointment with
Dr.____ in the practice of ________.
When you call for your appointment,
please say that you were treated in the Emergency Department
at _________ Hospital by________and were advised to be seen
again in ____days.
[ ] Return to the Emergency
Department/Clinic on ____ (date) at _____ AM/PM for a
follow-up examination.
[ ] Do not perform vigorous physical
activities for 1 to 2 days.
[ ] You may resume everyday activities
including driving and operating machinery.
[ ] Do not return to work for
_____days.
[ ] You may return to work on a limited
basis. See instructions below.
[ ] Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke
for 72 hours; smoke may worsen the condition of your lungs.
[ ] Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages
for at least 24 hours; alcohol may worsen injury to your
stomach or have other effects.
[ ] Avoid taking the following
medications: ________________
[ ] You may continue taking the
following medication(s) that your doctor(s) prescribed for
you: _______________________________
[ ] Other instructions:
____________________________________
_____________________________________________________
- Provide the Emergency Department with the name and the
number of your primary care physician so that the ED can
send him or her a record of your emergency department visit.
- You or your physician can get more information on the
chemical by contacting: ____________ or _____________, or by
checking out the following Internet Web sites:
___________;__________.
Signature of patient _______________
Date ____________
Signature of physician _____________
Date ____________
Where can I get more information?
If you have questions or concerns, please contact your community or state health or environmental quality department or:
For more information, contact:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
Division of Toxicology and Human Health Sciences
4770 Buford Highway
Chamblee, GA 30341-3717
Phone: 1-800-CDC-INFO 888-232-6348 (TTY)
Email: Contact CDC-INFO
ATSDR can also tell you the location of occupational and environmental health clinics. These clinics specialize in recognizing, evaluating, and treating illnesses resulting from exposure to hazardous substances.