Safer Solutions Total Environment Centre
Safer Solutions
. .
.
Acetone PDF Print E-mail

Used in nail polish, paint thinners, floor varnishes... 

A highly flammable general solvent used in nail polish remover, in varnishes, paint thinners, aeroplane lacquers and cellulose glues.

Health effects
All types of solvents remove protective fats and oils from the skin and leave it more easily damaged. Contact with the liquids should be avoided and special nitrile rubber or VITON gloves should be worn when handling them. It is important to assure good ventilation when working with products containing these solvents or to wear a respirator with an adequate filter.( See also Protective clothing).

There is increasing evidence that exposure to many solvents can have chronic and delayed effects as well as acute effects. These include effects on the reproductive system of both men and women. The risk of miscarriage can be doubled or tripled if a woman is heavily exposed to solvents during the first trimester of pregnancy or if the father has been exposed before the child was conceived.

Recommended procedures for all solvents:
1. Choose solvents that are the least flammable and least volatile (e.g. mineral turpentine).
2. Avoid chlorinated solvents if possible.
3. Choose water-based products wherever possible.
4. Ensure good ventilation.
5. Avoid skin contact with all solvents.
6. Wear protective clothing and thoroughly wash off splashes of solvent.