A positive carcinogenic response has occurred only in mice given large doses of trichloroethene. Data suggest a nonmutagenic mechanism for tumor formation implying that nontoxic doses of trichloroethene should pose little or no carcinogenic hazard for man. Butylene oxide has been shown to produce benign and malignant tumors in rats but not mice. These tumors occurred only following high exposure levels which first produced chronic upper respiratory tract irritation. Butylene oxide is not believed to pose a carcinogenic risk to man when handled as recommended.
Birth defects are unlikely.
Exposures having no effect on the mother should have no effect on the fetus. Animal data on butylene oxide and trichloroethene do not suggest any reproductive hazard from exposure. Wear positive pressure, self-contained breathing apparatus and protective fire fighting clothing. Wash off in flowing water or shower. If not breathing, give mouth-to mouth resuscitation.