Exposure can cause irritation to the nose, throat, and eyes. It is toxic by ingestion, inhalation and skin adsorption. Toluene is insoluble in water. It is used as a solvent for fats, oils, waxes, resins, and other products. Exposure can cause dizziness and lightheadedness.
Higher levels can cause unconsciousness, irregular heartbeat and death.
It is used for vapor degreasing of fabricated metal parts, as an extraction solvent, and as a chemical intermediate. The chemical is slightly soluble in water and moderately toxic to aquatic life. The life of the chemical in the atmosphere is short with an estimated half-life of about one week. Exposure to vapor can be irritating to the nose and throat. Short term exposure to high concentration can cause headache, dizziness, and nausea.