CARBON TETRACHLORIDE

Because of its excellent solvent properties and non flammability, carbon tetrachloride has been in use for many decades in commercial products such as dry cleaning solvents, grease solvents, and fire extinguishing agents. Today it is used only in industry and as a fumigant. In 1970, the Food and Drug Administration banned carbon tetrachloride and any mixture containing it for use in the home. The FDA classified carbon tetrachloride as a substance so hazardous that no warning label could be devised that would adequately protect the householder.

Carbon tetrachloride is a cellular toxin that produces cellular destruction throughout the body, especially in the liver, kidney, and central nervous system. It is toxic by all routes of exposure: inhalation, absorption, skin contact, and oral ingestion. Although uniquely potent, carbon tetrachloride is in many respects representative of a large class of related chlorinated hydrocarbon solvents.

Disposal: If you find a product containing carbon tetrachloride, secure and hold for professional household hazardous waste collection or give it to a licensed hazardous waste handler.

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