# NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
Thioglycolic acid | CAS 68-11-1
HSCH2COOH | RTECS AI5950000
Synonyms & Trade Names Acetyl mercaptan, Mercaptoacetate, Mercaptoacetic acid, 2-Mercaptoacetic acid, 2-Thioglycolic acid, Thiovanic acid | DOT ID & Guide 1940 153
Exposure Limits | NIOSH REL: TWA 1 ppm (4 mg/m3) [skin]
OSHA PEL†: none
IDLH N.D. | Conversion 1 ppm = 3.77 mg/m3
Physical Description Colorless liquid with a strong, disagreeable odor characteristic of mercaptans. [Note: Olfactory fatigue may occur after short exposures.]
MW: 92.1 | BP: ? | FRZ: 2°F | Sol: Miscible
VP(64°F): 10 mmHg | IP: ? |  | Sp.Gr: 1.32
Fl.P: >230°F | UEL: ? | LEL: 5.9% |
Class IIIB Combustible Liquid: Fl.P. at or above 200°F.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities Air, strong oxidizers, bases, active metals (e.g., sodium potassium, magnesium, calcium) [Note: Readily oxidized by air.]
Measurement Methods None available
Personal Protection & Sanitation Skin: Prevent skin contact Eyes: Prevent eye contact Wash skin: When contaminated Remove: When wet or contaminated Change: No recommendation Provide: Eyewash, Quick drench | First Aid (See procedures) Eye: Irrigate immediately Skin: Water flush immediately Breathing: Respiratory support Swallow: Medical attention immediately
Respirator Recommendations To be added later
Exposure Routes inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms Irritation eyes, skin, nose, throat; lacrimation (discharge of tears), corneal damage; skin burns, blisters; in animals: lassitude (weakness, exhaustion); gasping respirations; convulsions
Target Organs Eyes, skin, respiratory system
See also: INTRODUCTION