Ethanol SDS: Safety Data Sheet for Ethyl Alcohol

Ethanol (ethyl alcohol, CAS No. 64-17-5) is a flammable liquid classified under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) as Flammable Liquid Category 2 and Eye Irritation Category 2A. Many manufacturer SDSs, particularly for denatured or higher-proof lab-grade product, also classify it as Specific Target Organ Toxicity, Single Exposure, Category 3 (narcotic effects), reflecting drowsiness or dizziness at high vapor exposure.

Its SDS identifies it as a clear, colorless liquid with a low flash point, meaning it requires careful storage away from ignition sources. This page summarizes the key hazard, handling, and first-aid information typically found on an ethanol SDS.

Disclaimer: This page presents general, publicly available reference information about ethanol, organized to mirror a standard SDS. It is not a substitute for the SDS provided by your specific product's manufacturer. Formulation, concentration, denaturants, and hazard classification can vary by supplier and grade; always confirm details against the SDS for the exact product in use.

What Is Ethanol?

Ethanol is also labeled ethyl alcohol or grain alcohol. Its CAS number is 64-17-5, its molecular formula is C2H6O (also written C2H5OH), and its molecular weight is approximately 46.07 g/mol. For shipping, it's typically listed under DOT hazmat rules as UN1170, Class 3 flammable liquid.

It's one of the most common industrial and laboratory solvents, used in cleaning and disinfecting products, extraction processes, coatings, fuel additives, and, in food-grade form, as a beverage and flavoring ingredient. Formulation and denaturants vary by supplier and grade, which is exactly why the manufacturer's specific SDS always governs over general reference data like this.

What Is Ethanol's GHS Hazard Classification?

Two GHS hazard classes apply to essentially every ethanol product: Flammable Liquid, Category 2 (H225: highly flammable liquid and vapor), and Eye Irritation, Category 2A (H319: causes serious eye irritation).

A third classification is common but not universal. Many manufacturer SDSs, especially for denatured ethanol or higher-proof lab-grade product, also list Specific Target Organ Toxicity, Single Exposure, Category 3, narcotic effects (H336: may cause drowsiness or dizziness). Whether this third category appears depends on the manufacturer's classification and the product's specific formulation, which is why it's worth checking rather than assuming.

The signal word is Danger.

The applicable pictograms are Flame and Exclamation Mark — see the GHS hazard pictograms guide if you need the meaning of either symbol explained.

What Are Ethanol's Physical and Chemical Properties?

• Appearance and odor: clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic alcohol odor
• Flash point: approximately 55°F (12.8°C), closed cup (varies slightly by concentration and grade)
• Boiling point: approximately 172.9°F (78.2°C)
• Vapor density: approximately 1.6 (air = 1.0); ethanol vapor is heavier than air and can travel along floors to a distant ignition source
• Molecular weight: approximately 46.07 g/mol

How Should Ethanol Be Handled and Stored?

• Store away from heat, sparks, open flame, and other ignition sources; a dedicated flammable liquids cabinet or storage room is standard practice.
• Use in well-ventilated areas, and ground and bond containers during transfer to prevent static discharge.
• Keep containers tightly closed when not in use, and use non-sparking tools nearby.
• Segregate from strong oxidizers and other known incompatibilities, including acetyl chloride, acetyl bromide, bromine pentafluoride, sodium, and potassium dioxide.

These practices follow standard chemical segregation guidance; see hazard identification and chemical inventory for how to build that into a broader program.

What First Aid Is Needed for Ethanol Exposure?

• Eye contact: flush with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
• Skin contact: remove contaminated clothing and wash the affected area with soap and water.
• Inhalation: move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
• Ingestion: do not induce vomiting; rinse the mouth and seek medical attention.

This is general guidance, not a substitute for the specific first-aid section of your product's actual SDS, and not a substitute for professional medical advice in an actual exposure.

What PPE and Exposure Controls Does Ethanol Require?

Standard PPE for routine handling includes chemical splash goggles, chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or butyl rubber are common choices), and adequate general or local exhaust ventilation.

Commonly cited U.S. occupational exposure limits for ethanol include an OSHA PEL (TWA) of 1,000 ppm, a NIOSH REL (TWA) of 1,000 ppm, an ACGIH STEL of 1,000 ppm (15-minute short-term exposure limit), and an IDLH of 3,300 ppm. PPE selection should always follow the specific guidance in your product's SDS Section 8, since concentration and use conditions affect what's actually needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the CAS Number for Ethanol?

Ethanol's CAS number is 64-17-5. This number uniquely identifies the chemical substance and should be used to confirm you're referencing the correct SDS, since product names and grades can vary by supplier.

Is Ethanol a Flammable Liquid?

Yes. Ethanol is classified under the GHS as a Flammable Liquid, Category 2, with a flash point (about 55°F/12.8°C) low enough that it can ignite near open flames, sparks, or other ignition sources at typical room temperatures. It should be stored and handled accordingly.

What GHS Pictograms Appear on an Ethanol Label?

An ethanol label typically carries the Flame pictogram, indicating flammability, and the Exclamation Mark pictogram, indicating eye irritation and, on many manufacturer SDSs, possible drowsiness or dizziness from vapor exposure. The signal word "Danger" accompanies these hazard classifications.

What Should You Do if Ethanol Gets in Your Eyes?

Flush the affected eye with water for several minutes, removing contact lenses if present and if it can be done easily. Seek medical attention if irritation persists. Always follow the first-aid guidance in your specific product's SDS, since formulations can vary.

Where Can I Find the Official SDS for My Ethanol Product?

The manufacturer or supplier of your specific ethanol product is required to provide its SDS. Because formulation, concentration, and denaturants vary by supplier and grade, always reference the SDS for the exact product in use rather than relying on general reference information alone.