The Dangers of working with Acetone

By Frederick M. Hueston StoneForensics.com

Acetone is a commonly used solvent in the stone industry.  It is also found in common products such as nail polish removers. It is a colorless, flammable liquid that has a strong, pungent odor and is highly volatile. Acetone is primarily used as a solvent for various types of plastics, resins, and synthetic fibers, as well as for dissolving and removing adhesives, paints, and varnishes.

While acetone is widely used, there are concerns about its potential dangers and risks. Let’s explore the various ways that acetone can be dangerous and the precautions that should be taken when handling it.

One of the most significant risks associated with acetone is its flammability. Acetone is highly flammable and can easily ignite if exposed to heat, sparks, or flames. This makes it particularly dangerous in industrial settings where there may be a high risk of fire or explosion. Workers who handle acetone in these settings must take appropriate precautions to minimize the risk of ignition, such as using non-sparking tools, storing acetone in appropriate containers, and using protective equipment such as gloves and goggles.

Another concern with acetone is its potential toxicity. Acetone can be harmful if ingested or inhaled, and it can also be absorbed through the skin. Exposure to high levels of acetone vapor can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, and prolonged exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness, and nausea. In extreme cases, exposure to high levels of acetone can cause unconsciousness and even death.

While the risk of acute toxicity from acetone exposure is generally low, chronic exposure to acetone can have adverse health effects. Long-term exposure to acetone can cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and nervous system, and can also increase the risk of certain types of cancer.

To minimize the risks associated with acetone, it is essential to take appropriate precautions when handling and using it. This includes using acetone in well-ventilated areas, wearing appropriate protective equipment such as gloves and goggles, and avoiding prolonged or repeated exposure to acetone. In addition, it is important to store acetone in appropriate containers and to avoid mixing it with other chemicals, which can increase the risk of fire or explosion.

While acetone is a useful solvent and cleaning agent, it can be dangerous if not handled and used appropriately. It is important to be aware of the risks associated with acetone and to take appropriate precautions when handling and using it. By following these guidelines, we can minimize the risks associated with acetone and ensure that it is used safely and effectively in a variety of applications.

Are special Gloves required to use Acetone?

When choosing gloves for working with acetone, it is important to select gloves that are resistant to the chemical and provide adequate protection. Nitrile gloves are generally recommended for use with acetone, as they are resistant to the chemical and provide good protection against skin exposure. Latex gloves are not recommended for use with acetone, as the chemical can dissolve the latex and compromise the integrity of the glove.