In the event of skin contact, immediately wash with soap and water and remove contaminated clothing. If chlorine is inhaled, move the person to fresh air and seek medical attention at once. In case of accidental release of chlorine gas, such as from a leaking cylinder or associated apparatus, evacuate the area and eliminate the source of the leak if this can be done safely. Cylinders with slow leaks should be carefully removed to a fume hood or remote outdoor locations. Chlorine leaks may be detected by passing a rag dampened with aqueous ammonia over the suspected valve or fitting.
White fumes indicate escaping chlorine gas.
Disposal Excess chlorine in cylinders should be returned to the manufacturer for disposal. For more information on disposal procedures, see Chapter 7 of this volume. The information in this LCSS has been compiled by a committee of the National Research Council from literature sources and Material Safety Data Sheets and is believed to be accurate as of July 1994. This LCSS presents a concise summary of safety information that should be adequate for most laboratory uses of the title substance, but in some cases it may be advisable to consult more comprehensive references. This information should not be used as a guide to the nonlaboratory use of this chemical.