Toluene

CAS number 108-88-3

Description

Toluene is a clear colourless, pungent sweet-smelling liquid. It is less dense than water and insoluble in water. Its vapour is heavier than air.

Uses

Toluene exposure in an indoor air space at home could occur through road fumes or from a garage as it is used in the production of automotive fuels. It can also be used as a solvent to make other chemicals and in production of paints, inks, lacquers, paint thinners, adhesives, fingernail polish, cleaning agents, and rubber. It is also in some personal care products.

Why it can be problematic for human and animal health

The effects of chronic exposure to toluene varies amongst humans, depending on how long you have been exposed, the level of the chemical and your personal sensitivity to it.

Toluene, even at a low level exposure on a day to day basis, is shown in scientific literature as being associated with the following chronic health impacts:

Respiratory disease e.g. asthma
Inflammatory Bowel Disease, e.g. celiac, ulcerative colitis
Neurological, e.g. encephalitis
Non-alcoholic liver disease
Cardiovascular, e.g. arrythmia
Endocrine disruptor e.g., heavy periods, fertility
Allergies e.g. skin, eye irritation
Fatigue, headaches and dizziness
Hearing and vision impairment
Mental health, e.g. contributing towards depression and/or anxiety

Toluene can have an acute toxic effect, which can be fatal, most often seen in the abuse of solvents.

Please note any adverse health effects that you may encounter in exposure to a chemical depend on several factors, including the amount to which you are exposed (dose), the way you are exposed, the duration of exposure, the form of the chemical and if you were exposed to any other chemicals.