September 2010

NIOSH Publication Number 2010-168c

Potassium hydroxide
Synonyms & Trade Names Caustic potash, Lye, Potassium hydrate
CAS No. 1310-58-3		RTECS No. TT2100000		DOT ID & Guide 1813 154 (solution)
Formula KOH		Conversion		IDLH N.D. See: IDLH INDEX
Exposure Limits NIOSH REL : C 2 mg/m³ OSHA PEL †: none				Measurement Methods NIOSH 7401
Physical Description Odorless, white or slightly yellow lumps, rods, flakes, sticks, or pellets. [Note: May be used as an aqueous solution.]
MW: 56.1	BP: 2415°F	MLT: 716°F	Sol(59°F): 107%	VP(1317°F): 1 mmHg	IP: ?
Sp.Gr: 2.04	Fl.P: NA	UEL: NA	LEL: NA
Noncombustible Solid; however, may react with H₂O & other substances and generate sufficient heat to ignite combustible materials.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities Acids, water, metals (when wet), halogenated hydrocarbons, maleic anhydride [Note: Heat is generated if KOH comes in contact with H₂O & CO₂ from the air.]
Exposure Routes inhalation, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; cough, sneezing; eye, skin burns; vomiting, diarrhea
Target Organs Eyes, skin, respiratory system
Personal Protection/Sanitation (See protection codes) Skin: Prevent skin contact Eyes: Prevent eye contact Wash skin: When contaminated Remove: When wet or contaminated Change: Daily Provide: Eyewash, Quick drench				First Aid (See procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately Skin: Water flush immediately Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations Not available. Important additional information about respirator selection
See also: INTRODUCTION See ICSC CARD: 0357