SDS Vault Safety Data Sheet Reference

Formaldehyde Solution (Formalin)

CAS: 50-00-0 Category: Industrial ⚠ DANGER
Also known as: Formalin, Methanal, Formic aldehyde, HCHO solution, 37% formaldehyde

Quick Facts

CAS Number50-00-0
Signal WordDANGER
GHS Hazard Classesflammable, toxic, harmful, health hazard
NFPA RatingHealth: 3 / Flammability: 2 / Reactivity: 0
Common NamesFormalin, Methanal, Formic aldehyde, HCHO solution
PubChem CID712

Hazard Summary

⚠ DANGER: IARC Group 1 human carcinogen. OSHA PEL 0.75 ppm, STEL 2 ppm. Used in tissue preservation and manufacturing. Strong sensitizer — once sensitized, even trace exposure causes severe reactions.

GHS Hazard Pictograms

🔥 Flammable ☠ Acutely Toxic ⚠ Harmful/Irritant ❤️ Health Hazard

Hazard Statements (H-codes)

H228 – Flammable solid (paraformaldehyde)
H301+H311+H331 – Toxic if swallowed/skin contact/inhaled
H314 – Causes skin burns and eye damage
H317 – May cause allergic skin reaction
H341 – Suspected of causing genetic defects
H350 – May cause cancer

Precautionary Statements (P-codes)

P260 – Do not breathe vapour
P271 – Use only outdoors or in well-ventilated area
P301+P310 – IF SWALLOWED: Call Poison Control
P305+P351+P338 – IF IN EYES: Rinse for 15 min; seek medical attention

First Aid Measures (Section 4)

👁 Eye Contact
Flush immediately with water for at least 15 minutes. Seek immediate emergency care.
🖐 Skin Contact
Flush with water for 15 minutes. Remove contaminated clothing. Formaldehyde penetrates skin — seek medical evaluation.
🫁 Inhalation
Remove to fresh air. High concentrations cause pulmonary edema. Seek emergency care for significant exposure.
🫦 Ingestion
Call 911 and Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) immediately. Systemic toxicity is severe.

Storage & Handling

🔒 Storage & Handling: Store in sealed containers at 15-30 C — cold causes polymerization, heat causes vapor buildup. Keep away from oxidizers and alkalis.

PPE Requirements

Chemical splash goggles
Butyl or neoprene gloves
Acid-gas respirator required above PEL
Face shield for concentrated work
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