Although benzoic acid is not as hazardous as chemicals like acrolein or chlorine dioxide, it can still pose certain risks to human health. This makes careful handling essential. However, before implementing safety measures, it’s crucial to understand the specific hazards associated with benzoic acid. By identifying these risks, appropriate safety protocols can be planned and enforced to ensure safe usage and minimize any potential health impacts. 

 

Benzoic acid is an organic compound that has been widely used in the food industry for nearly a century. Known for its strong antimicrobial properties, it is primarily used as a preservative in products like carbonated beverages, pickles, sauces, and jellies. Beyond its preservative role, benzoic acid also serves as a pH adjuster and a fragrance ingredient. Its versatility extends to various industries, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and the paints and coatings sector, where it plays a crucial role in their manufacturing processes. 

If your industry relies on benzoic acid for daily operations, continue exploring the blog. It will guide you through the specific hazards associated with benzoic acid and offer practical ways to manage them effectively. By the end, you’ll discover the smartest solutions for addressing the chemical risks linked to this product, ensuring a safer work environment.  

 

So, let’s begin! 

 

Why is Benzoic Acid Hazardous? 

 

Benzoic acid is a white crystalline powder with a mild, pleasant odor, commonly used in the production of other chemicals, as well as in perfumes and flavorings. It is recognized as a hazardous product by regulatory bodies such as the Department of Transportation (DOT), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Understanding the potential health and fire hazards associated with benzoic acid is crucial for safe handling. Below, we provide important details on how this substance can pose risks to both health and fire safety. Look to learn more: 

 

  • Eye Irritation: Contact with benzoic acid can cause eye irritation and potential damage if not treated promptly. 
  • Skin Irritation: Benzoic acid may irritate the skin, causing redness, rash, and a burning sensation. 
  • Inhalation Risks: Inhaling benzoic acid can irritate the nose, throat, and lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. 
  • Skin Allergy: Prolonged or repeated exposure, especially in high concentrations, may result in the development of a skin allergy. 
  • Fire Hazards: While benzoic acid does not ignite readily, it can burn and produce toxic gases such as phenol and benzene during a fire 

 

An Incident that Highlights the Dangers of Benzoic Acid Exposure:

 

On June 4, 1993, a PST driver at Kulama Chemical, Inc. was exposed to benzoic acid during a pickup. After noticing a strong odor, the driver experienced eye, throat, and chest irritation, followed by gagging and vomiting. He eventually lost consciousness but was revived and taken to the hospital. It was later found that 50 pounds of benzoic acid had leaked from the plant, causing the incident. Despite being labeled nonhazardous, the benzoic acid still led to significant health effects. 

 

Source Link: https://www.osha.gov/ords/imis/accidentsearch.accident_detail?id=170096747 

 

How to Handle the Hazards of Benzoic Acid? 

 

Although exposure to such substances may be irritating or harmful however they can be handled. Here’s how to handle the adverse effects of benzoic acid with ultimate effectiveness: 

 

  1. Eye Contact Safety: 

An employee exposed to benzoic acid may experience eye irritation. The following actions should be taken right away: 

  • If the substance gets into the eyes, rinse thoroughly with a large amount of water for at least 15 minutes. 
  • While rinsing, remove any contact lenses, and seek medical attention without delay. 

 

  1. Skin Contact Safety:

 

Unsafe handling can lead to skin contact. It’s important to act immediately: 

  • If the skin is exposed, quickly remove any contaminated clothing. 
  • Wash the affected area well with soap and water. 
  • If irritation continues, seek medical help. 

 

  1. Inhalation Safety:

Prolonged exposure may lead to respiratory problems. Acting quickly with these steps can provide relief: 

  • Remove the person from the exposure site to fresh air immediately. 
  • If breathing has stopped, begin rescue breathing, and perform CPR if necessary. 
  • Transfer the person to a medical facility immediately. 

 

  1. Fire Hazards:

To avoid sudden fire hazards the tips discussed below will work. So, take a look: 

  • Benzoic acid may burn but doesn’t ignite easily. Use dry chemical, CO2, water spray, or foam to extinguish fires. 
  • Poisonous gases, including phenol and benzene, are produced when benzoic acid burns. 
  • Keep fire-exposed containers cool with water spray to prevent vapor from forming explosive mixtures. 

 

  1. Spill Management:

 

When handling chemical products accidental spilling is normal. Here’s what one should do: 

  • Evacuate the area and secure the surroundings. 
  • Eliminate all ignition sources before clean-up. 
  • Moisten the spilled benzoic acid or use a HEPA-filter vacuum for clean-up. 
  • Dispose of the material in sealed containers and avoid washing it into the sewer. 

 

  1. Handling and Storage:

You can’t store a benzoic acid container just anywhere. Follow the tips below to ensure its stored safely and correctly: 

  • Benzoic acid is incompatible with oxidizing agents and strong bases like sodium hydroxide. 
  • Store benzoic acid in tightly closed containers, in cool and well-ventilated areas, away from heat and flames. 

 

  1. Protective Equipment:

Organizations must ensure that all protective equipment is properly selected and prepared to shield users from the harmful effects of benzoic acid. Here’s what your organization should consider before choosing the right equipment: 

  • Use protective gloves made of butyl or neoprene, and wear proper clothing such as Tychem® BR, Responder® or equivalent. 
  • Ensure the availability of eye protection and face shields when handling benzoic acid. 

 

  1. Workplace Practices:

Implementing safe workplace practices is essential to prevent the harmful effects of benzoic acid. Here’s what you can do: 

  • Label all process containers clearly and provide hazard information and training to employees. 
  • Provide proper ventilation and install eye wash fountains and emergency showers. 
  • Always wash hands after handling benzoic acid and before eating or drinking. 

 

 

How CloudSDS can Help? 

 

By choosing CloudSDS, one of the reliable SDS management software your organization can share the hazard information quickly. Moreover, it keeps the hazard safety information always easily accessible. Here’s how it can improve the whole chemical safety management process: 

 

  • Simple SDS Search: 

 

With the SDS search feature, your employees can instantly access the latest version of the benzoic acid Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In just seconds, users can locate specific SDSs by simply entering the product name, like ‘benzoic acid.’ Additionally, multiple filters can be applied to quickly find specific hazard and safety information. This user-friendly and efficient search process enables organizations to manage hazards more effectively and stay compliant with safety standards. 

 

  • Access to Hazard Summary: 

 

Your employees need quick access to hazard summaries when handling hazardous products or during shipping. CloudSDS provides this information in seconds, eliminating the need to open full SDSs each time. This feature saves valuable time, especially in emergencies, ensuring quick and efficient decision-making.  

 

  • Access to Updated SDSs: 

 

CloudSDS ensures your organization always has the most up-to-date safety and hazard information. It allows you to easily request the latest version of an SDS directly from manufacturers via email. This keeps your organization protected from chemical risks and helps maintain compliance with safety regulations. 

 

  • Chat with CloudSDS Copilot: 

 

In emergencies, searching through an entire SDS for specific information can be time-consuming. With CloudSDS Copilot, your employees can quickly access critical details by simply asking a question. The Copilot provides accurate answers based on the specific SDS, helping them find the information they need much faster. 

 

 

  • Proper Access to Emergency Contacts: 

 

CloudSDS makes it easy to access the right help during emergencies. You can create a location-specific list of emergency contacts, providing site-specific details for quick reference. This list is easy to navigate, allowing users to address issues without confusion. Plus, it can be easily managed by editing existing information or adding new contacts as needed. 

 

Conclusion:

With proper preparation, the hazards of benzoic acid can be effectively managed. Ensure your organization follows all the guidelines outlined in the relevant SDS. For a smarter approach to chemical safety, start your journey with CloudSDS and let it take care of the rest.