# NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
Potassium hydroxide | CAS 1310-58-3
KOH | RTECS TT2100000
Synonyms & Trade Names Caustic potash, Lye, Potassium hydrate | DOT ID & Guide 1813 154 (dry, solid) 1814 154 (solution)
Exposure Limits | NIOSH REL: C 2 mg/m3
OSHA PEL†: none
IDLH N.D. | Conversion
Physical Description Odorless, white or slightly yellow lumps, rods, flakes, sticks, or pellets. [Note: May be used as an aqueous solution.]
MW: 56.1 | BP: 2415°F | MLT: 716°F | Sol(59°F): 107%
VP(1317°F): 1 mmHg | IP: ? |  | Sp.Gr: 2.04
Fl.P: NA | UEL: NA | LEL: NA |
Noncombustible Solid; however, may react with H2O & other substances and generate sufficient heat to ignite combustible materials.
Incompatibilities & Reactivities Acids, water, metals (when wet), halogenated hydrocarbons, maleic anhydride [Note: Heat is generated if KOH comes in contact with H2O & CO2 from the air.]
Measurement Methods NIOSH 7401
Personal Protection & Sanitation Skin: Prevent skin contact Eyes: Prevent eye contact Wash skin: When contaminated Remove: When wet or contaminated Change: Daily 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, ingestion, skin and/or eye contact
Symptoms Irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; cough, sneezing; eye, skin burns; vomiting, diarrhea
Target Organs Eyes, skin, respiratory system
See also: INTRODUCTION