Re: Potassium Oxalate Hazards (fwd)

Michael J. Coslo (mjc5@psu.edu)
Thu, 14 May 1998 09:56:20 -0500

Potassium oxalate is somewhat hazardous by inhalation, causing respiratory
tract irritation. Coughing, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny nose.

Skin contact can cause redness, swelling, itching.

Eye contact the same.

If you eat this stuff, it can cause gastroenteritis, abdominal pain,
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, ringing ears,dizzines, elevated blood pressure,
blurred vision, tremors

It is not a carcinogen.

First aid is mainly flushing with plenty of water, if ingested, call a
physician

Safety handling is glasses, don't breath dust. Glove type for handling is
PVC. Wash hands post-use and before eating or smoking.

All in all, it is not very high on the list of nasty stuff, and as
long as simple precautions are taken, can be safely used without fear.

- Mike -