The MSDS for Phenol:Chloroform calls for "plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes". While I understand that you feel that using water may spread phenol to other parts of the body, ready access to a SSEW and training on proper decon procedures would minimize that possibility. And you probably don't want to use PEG 400 for eye decon. In our personnel decon kits that we use in our chemical weapons lab (mustard and nerve agents)we utilize bottles with soap and water as well as plain or "rinse" water. No shelf life problems here and it's hard to argue that there's too many chemicals that would ruin your day quicker than these. Don A. Long Southwest Research Institute Laboratory Pine Bluff Chemical Agent Disposal Facility PO Box 20130 White Hall, AR 71612 870-541-4930 -----Original Message----- From: DCHAS-L Discussion List [mailto:DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU]On Behalf Of Larry D. McLouth Sent: Tuesday, September 14, 2010 2:11 PM To: DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**LIST.UVM.EDU Subject: [DCHAS-L] Shelf Life of PEG 400 used for Phenol First Aid Treatment We're developing first aid procedures for phenol and phenol/chloroform. This involves decontaminating affected areas with polyethylene glycol (400 MW) instead of water. Flushing with water may spread phenol to other parts of the body. Because of its expense, we plan to buy larger quantities of PEG 400 and repackage it into 1 L nalgene bottles. This, along with other supplies (gauze pads, gloves, disposable coveralls - for modesty, etc.) will be put in light tight buckets. The buckets will be stored in labs at room temperature. My question is about the shelf life of the PEG after it has been opened and repackaged. Chemical suppliers report shelf lives from 1 to 2 years. But I believe this applies to PEG intended for manufacturing and research applications. Does anyone have experience with the use of PEG 400 for 1st aid treatment who can recommend a shelf life? Literature citations (if they exist) would be much appreciated. Regards Larry
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