2-Methyllactonitrile (Acetone cyanohydrin)

Produced in chemical plants as an intermediate for methyl methacrylate and related resins/plastics [1].

Mainly at work by breathing vapors or through skin/eye contact during production, transfer, or spills; nearby communities may be exposed during accidental releases [1][2].

Extremely poisonous; converts to cyanide in the body, causing headache, dizziness, confusion, rapid breathing, seizures, cardiac arrest, and death at high doses; also corrosive to skin and eyes [1][2].

Workers in methyl methacrylate/acetone cyanohydrin manufacturing, transport, or storage; emergency responders; people near industrial sites during accidents. Pregnant people, infants, and those with heart/lung disease may be more vulnerable to cyanide’s oxygen-blocking effects [2].

At work, use closed systems, local exhaust, monitoring, and chemical-resistant PPE; have cyanide emergency plans and trained responders [1][2]. In the community, follow official alerts, shelter-in-place or evacuate as directed, and avoid unknown spills/odors near facilities [2].