CHLORAMPHENICOL

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Basic information

  • Chemical formula(s): \({\rm C_{11}H_{12}Cl_2N_2O_5}\)
  • Other names: D-(-)-threo-2,2-dichloro-N-[β-hydroxy-α-(hydroxymethyl)-p-nitrophenethyl]acetamide
  • CAS number: 56-75-7
  • EC number: 200-287-4
  • Molecular weight: 323.13 g/mol
  • International Chemical Safety Card (ICSC): N/A (see Roth Safety Data Sheet)
  • Flammability: no
  • Description: White or grayish-white crystalline powder. Antibiotic compound. Classified as IARC Group 2A (probably carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic to humans).

NFPA 704 (fire diamond)

  • Health (blue): 3 - short exposure could cause serious temporary or moderate residual injury.
  • Flammability (red): 1 - must be pre-heated before ignition can occur under typical fire conditions.
  • Instability–reactivity (yellow): 0 - normally stable, even under fire exposure conditions, and is not reactive with water.
  • Special notice (white): -

Hazard statements

Code Phrase
H318 Causes serious eye damage
H351 Suspected of causing cancer
H361fd Suspected of damaging fertility. Suspected of damaging the unborn child.

Precautionary statements

Code Phrase
P202 Do not handle until all safety precautions have been read and understood
P280 Wear protective gloves/eye protection
P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing
P308+P313 IF exposed or concerned: Get medical advice/attention

Protective measures

Gloves

For handling chloramphenicol powder (carcinogenic substance):

  • Nitrile: very good - recommended for handling carcinogenic materials, chemical resistant.
  • Butyl rubber: very good - excellent chemical resistance for extended contact with carcinogens.
  • Viton™: very good - superior chemical resistance for hazardous substances.
  • Natural latex or rubber: poor (not recommended) - inadequate protection against carcinogens.
  • PVC: fair - limited protection, not recommended for carcinogens.

Safety goggles

  • Mandatory: Always wear chemical safety goggles when handling this product.
  • Use eye protection equipment that has been tested and approved by recognized national standards.
  • Corrective glasses are not considered safety goggles.
  • Handle only in well-ventilated areas or fume hood.

Clothing

  • Mandatory protective clothing: Wear chemical resistant protective clothing.
  • Long sleeves and full-length pants required.
  • Closed-toe shoes mandatory.
  • Disposable clothing recommended when handling carcinogenic materials.
  • Remove contaminated clothing immediately and dispose properly.
  • Do not take contaminated clothing home.

Respiratory protection

  • Mandatory: Use appropriate respiratory protection when handling.
  • Use HEPA-filtered respirator or work in fume hood.
  • Minimize dust generation during handling.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation with HEPA or charcoal filtration.
  • Never eat, drink, or smoke while handling.

Spill management

  • Evacuate area and restrict access to trained personnel only.
  • Wear full protective equipment including respirator.
  • Minimize dust generation - do not sweep dry material.
  • Use wet cleanup methods or vacuum with HEPA filter.
  • Collect material in sealed containers labeled for carcinogenic waste.
  • Special disposal required - handle as hazardous carcinogenic waste.
  • Decontaminate area thoroughly after cleanup.
  • Never wash down drains or dispose in regular waste.

Special warnings

  • IARC Group 2A carcinogen - probable human carcinogen.
  • Suspected reproductive toxin - may damage fertility or unborn child.
  • Causes aplastic anemia - potentially fatal blood disorder.
  • Organ damage - causes damage through prolonged or repeated exposure.
  • Restricted use - handle only by trained personnel with appropriate safety measures.
  • Store in locked, secure area away from unauthorized personnel.
  • Medical surveillance required for personnel with occupational exposure.
  • Keep exposure logs and provide medical monitoring.
  • Pregnancy warning - pregnant or breastfeeding women should not handle.
  • Use only in well-ventilated areas with HEPA filtration.
  • Emergency procedures - have emergency eyewash and shower available.
  • Special training required before handling this carcinogenic substance.