Where It Comes From
Made in large volumes for consumer and industrial products; TRI reporting applies only to facilities that manufacture it by the strong‑acid process [4].
How You Are Exposed
Breathing vapors during use at home or work; skin contact; accidental swallowing (especially in children); indoor air in poorly ventilated spaces [1][3][5].
Why It Matters
Short-term exposure can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, headache, dizziness, and nausea; very high doses can lead to vomiting, low blood pressure, and unconsciousness; it’s highly flammable. The chemical itself isn’t classifiable for cancer, but occupational exposures in the strong‑acid manufacturing process are carcinogenic [1][2][3].
Who Is at Risk
Workers who make or use it (especially strong‑acid process), healthcare and cleaning staff, people in small unventilated rooms, and children who might swallow products [1][2][5].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Use in well‑ventilated areas; keep away from flames; follow labels; close containers; store out of children’s reach; at work, use PPE and ventilation per safety guidance [1][3].
References
- [1]ATSDR. ToxFAQs for Isopropyl Alcohol (Isopropanol), 2015.
- [2]IARC. Monographs: Isopropyl Alcohol (Group 3) and Isopropyl Alcohol Manufacture, Strong-Acid Process (Group 1), Vol. 71.
- [3]CDC/NIOSH. Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Isopropyl alcohol.
- [4]EPA. 40 CFR §372.65—TRI chemical list (Isopropyl alcohol—Manufacturing: strong acid process; no supplier notification).
- [5]CDC. Hand Sanitizer Use in Community Settings—safety and use guidance.