Acetone (UN 1090)
Quick Reference
What is Acetone?
An ingredient in some cosmetics and household cleaners. Used as a solvent for varnishes, lacquers, resins and glues and as a degreaser. Used in the production of some plastic products such as acrylics and polycarbonates. Transported in bulk containers or in truck and rail tanks. May also be packaged in small containers. Vapors are highly flammable, flash point is -20℃. Miscible in water.
Crew Safety
- Staging/Perimeter
- Limited exposure may not require staging (i.e. ingestion, splash in eyes, residential exposure).
- Significant/Large spills: 50 m all directions, downwind perimeter 300 m. Stage uphill/upwind.
- If tank, rail tank, or highway tank is involved in a fire: 800 m.
- Additional Resources
- Fire department if large spill or if rescue is required due to fire risk and possible need for SCBA.
- PPE requirements
- Entering a scene with a large spill, will require an SCBA.
- For small exposures, intentional ingestion, etc.: contact precautions.
- Organic vapour cartridges (OCVs) are effective for a short period of time if patient is off gassing during decontamination. Consider face shield for to protect eyes during decontamination.
- Safely initiating patient contact
- Large spills: patient brought to paramedics in a well-ventilated area away from vapours.
- Paramedics may decontaminate patient.
Effect on the Patient
Absorbed most readily by inhalation or ingestion, minimal dermal absorption. Contact with skin and eyes may cause localized irritation. Ingestion and inhalation may cause CNS depression, including slurred speech, respiratory depression, coma, and in rare cases, seizures. Nausea and vomiting are common. Hyperglycemia may occur. Excretion through kidneys and by exhalation.
Patient Decontamination
For inhalational exposure, remove patient from source of vapors. Wash exposed skin with water, using soap if available. If eyes exposed flush for 5 minutes. Do not transport contaminated clothing with patient. Use exhaust fan during transport.
Patient Treatment
Anticipate declining level of consciousness; be prepared to support ventilations and maintain airway as indicated. Treat as per BCEHS CPGs.
Safe Transfer of Care
Patients will breathe off acetone; however, this will not be in a sufficient concentration to cause risk to care providers. No special precautions needed.
Paramedic and Equipment Decontamination
No special decontamination needed. If smell of acetone persists in ambulance, open doors and ventilate for 20 minutes.
Quick Access Resources
DPIC Monograph
Paramedic Specialist Safety Data Sheet
No SDS available.
Emergency Response Guidebook
Acetone Product Stewardship Summary (Shell Chemicals)
Revision History
| Version | Date | Changes | Author |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 2026-05-01 | Initial version | Clinical Hub |