Is toluene toxic. Cigarette smoke is also a source of toluene.

Toluene exposure may cause liver and kidney damage. The primary purpose of this chapter is to provide public health officials, physicians, toxicologists, and other interested individuals and groups with an overall perspective on the toxicology of TDI and MDI. You can also be exposed from automobile exhaust and from paint and adhesive vapors that build up in indoor air. It is a lacrimating agent and a strong dermal and pulmonary sensitizer. Acute exposure to high levels of 2,4-toluene diisocyanate in humans, via inhalation, results in Many workers are unaware of the potential hazards that chemicals present in their work environment, which makes them more vulnerable to injury. Toluene is on the Proposition 65 list because it can cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. With regard to nail polish, a commonly used term is “five-free. Higher levels can caus. Toluene is used in making paints, paint thinners, fingernail polish, lacquers, adhesives, and rubber Jan 1, 2004 · It is well known that brain myelination is an ongoing process that continues at least through the second decade , and because inhalant abuse typically begins in the early teen or even pre-teen years , most toluene abusers encounter this white matter toxin at a time when their myelin is still forming and may be most vulnerable to its toxic Human toxicity from toluene exposure occurs primarily by the inhalational and dermal routes, although ingestion is another absorption route. 8 KB, 12/27/2023) : Record of all additions to and deletions from the TRI chemical list. ” Drinking water containing Jul 27, 2018 · Toxic volatile organic compounds (VOC), like benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes (BTEX), are atmospheric pollutants representing a threat to human health. Toluene is also an irritant to the skin and mucous membranes. Dec 26, 2023 · Spray paint may pose risks with solvents such as acetone, toluene, and xylene, causing irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. According to NFPA 33 Code, it is advised to maintain a 20-foot separation distance from the spray area for safety. It is identified as CAS#108-88-3, and the United Nations Department of Transportation's number for toluene is UN#1294. And now Dec 19, 2018 · The Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) group at Pfizer Global Research and Development initiated a project to assess the suitability of common solvents based on criteria of (i) Worker Safety, (ii) Process Safety, and (iii) Environmental and regulatory considerations. OSHA Directive TED 01-00-015 [TED 1-0. It can cause euphoria, ataxia, and mental aberrations. Toluene is toxic to multiple body systems, including the nervous, respiratory and cardiovascular systems. wells) from solvent and petroleum products spills. Jan 3, 2022 · The so-called toxic trio of nail polish consists of dibutyl phthalate (a plasticizer), toluene (to evenly suspend color), and formaldehyde (a known carcinogen that is used as a hardening agent). urces. The main source of toluene in these buildings was from motor vehicle emissions. LD50 of toluene for oral route is LD50>5000 mg/kg, for dermal route is LD50> 5000 mg/kg, and for inhalation route LC50> OR = 20mg/L. European Directive 20 …. The following references aid in recognizing and evaluating hazards associated with isocyanates in the workplace. Contains no benzene and no toluene: Claims to be less toxic but the hazards are not well documented: Low toxicity levels: Offensive odor: Minimal tissue shrinkage: Very oily: Soluble in alcohol and mounting media: Incompatible with some of the mounting media: Reasonably fast drying and leaves no residue: Cannot be distilled: Reduced fire risk Jul 8, 2019 · toluene; xylene; acetone; formaldehyde; benzene; Lead is a metal that can be very toxic and cause a variety of health problems. Toluene, aromatic hydrocarbon used extensively as starting material for the manufacture of Mar 21, 2022 · Get the scoop on non-toxic nail polish, plus your best bet for healthy, put-together nails. You could be exposed to toluene through: Breathing toluene vapors where toluene is processed. Toluene may affect the nervous system causing trouble. NAUSEA Sep 28, 2023 · Toluene is a volatile compound and rapidly evaporates from the skin after application. Summary: Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive smell. Toluene is used in making paints, paint The Skin Deep ingredient hazard score, from 1 to 10, reflects known and suspected hazards linked to the ingredients. With repeated exposure, the Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry reports that accumulation of fluid in the lungs and respiratory arrest may ensue. Feb 15, 2019 · Toluene naturally occurs in crude oil at low levels and, as such, toluene is typically generated during the process of making fuels from crude oil. The first reporting forms for this category are due July 1, 2025, for 2024 data if TRI reporting thresholds are met. DO NOT use it to treat or manage an actual poison exposure. ncentrating, headaches and slowed reflexes. This is the general definition of VOCs that is used in the scientific literature, and is consistent with the definition used for indoor air quality. General health effects of toluene are also discussed in more limited detail. The recommendations below are adapted from their published content in Dec 16, 2023 · These include: formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate. However, household glue poisoning can occur when someone breathes in glue fumes on purpose in an attempt to get high. Xylene, on the other hand, is a group of three isomers (ortho-, meta-, and para-xylene), each with the formula C₈H₁₀, having two methyl groups attached to the benzene ring. Toluene diisocyanate is produced commercially as an 80:20 (2,4-toluene diisocyanate:2,6-toluene diisocyanate) mixture of the two isomers. Current OSHA PEL: 200 ppm TWA, 300 ppm CEILING, 500 ppm 10-minute MAXIMUM PEAK. Follow-up Instructions. It occurs naturally in crude oil and in the tolú tree. The ATSDR toxicological profile succinctly characterizes the toxicology and adverse health effects information for the toxic substance described therein. 7. When it comes to cosmetics, the term “non-toxic” can be difficult to decipher. making paints, paint thinners, fingernail polish, lacquers, adhesives, and rubber and in some printing and leather tanning processes. Toluene vapours are irritating to the eyes, nose, throat and respiratory tract Aug 19, 2023 · Toxicity Concerns. Toluene can also leak from underground storage tanks at gasoline stations and other facilities. Jan 13, 2023 · Zoya Nail Lacquer. Many organic solvents have great addictive potential; toluene is the most commonly abused hydrocarbon solvent, primarily through “glue sniffing. It should also be noted that any future epidemiological observations of cancer risks associated with toluene or xylene would have to take account of the suspected Acute Health Effects. Enhanced skin absorption, Use restrictions (high), Non-reproductive organ system toxicity (low_moderate), Ecotoxicology (low), and Occupational hazards (moderate) Unacceptable: EWG VERIFIED products cannot contain this ingredient. Dec 13, 2020 · Toluene diisocyanate–attributable employment termination, non-malignant respiratory disease, and lung cancer mortality In the Pinkerton mortality cohort (three plants with exposure history) [ 12 ], there was a high termination rate in the first 3 months of follow-up, at an annual rate of 58%, which by 10 years of employment declined to 3% per Jul 1, 2014 · Toluene: general information. Aug 8, 2023 · Toluene and benzene can be found in products such as gasoline, nail polish, hair dye, acrylic spray paint, airplane glue, plastic cement, cleaning products, and paint thinners. It is also added to gasoline along with Oct 14, 2022 · Toluene is a gasoline additive that can be used to improve octane ratings for fuel used in race cars and other automobiles. Toluene evaporates when exposed to air. formaldehyde resin, camphor, ethyl tosylamide, xylene, and TPHP. Products that may contain toluene-such as paint, metal cleaners and Gasoline contains 5% to 7% toluene by weighty making toluene a common airborne contaminant in industrialized countries. In particular, burning candles releases trace quantities of toluene and Toluene Toxicity. SummaryToluene is added to gasoline, used to produce benzene, and used as a. Inhaling Toluene can irritate the nose. nd throat causing coughing and wheezing. Overview. General toxicity The main target organ of toluene-induced toxicity is the central nervous system (CNS). Toluene is used in making paints, paint thinners, fingernail polish, lacquers, adhesives, and rubber Jan 11, 2022 · Toluene toxicity can also occur as a result of long-term exposure and has been known to cause symptoms like brain lesions, CNS depression, and hearing disorders. Toluene: Toluene is a solvent commonly found in many adhesive products. Tobacco smoke contains toluene. OSHA Technical Manual (OTM). Styrene. Environmental Protection Agency (U. 1° F]) is a colourless, flammable, toxic liquid, insoluble in water but soluble in all common organic solvents. It is also produced in the process of making gasoline and other fuels from crude oil and making coke from coal. Prolonged exposure can result in neurological problems and organ damage. Toluene is produced in the process of making gasoline and other fuels from crude oil and in making coke from coal. Aug 18, 2015 · The hallmarks of acute toluene intoxication are hypokalemic paralysis and metabolic acidosis. It has moderate acute (short-term) toxicity on aquatic life. Ulta. Jan 1, 2023 · Developmental toxicity. 1993). $12. Goals and Objectives . Toluene exposure has been linked to harm to the respiratory tract and kidneys. The EWG VERIFIED ® mark means a product meets EWG’s strictest criteria for transparency and health. Ref: PHE publications gateway number: 2014790. It is a good solvent (a substance that can dissolve other substances). Toluene is used in making paints, paint thinners, fingernail polish, lacquers, adhesives, and rubber and in Toluene. All TRI Chemical List Changes (pdf) (328. Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health Concentrations (IDLH) CAS number: 108–88–3. Toluene-2, 5-Diamine Sulfate is a substituted aromatic amine salt. A brief description of chemical properties and environmental prevalence is given, followed by a review of pharmacokinetic data. C increased pain or a discharge from injured eyes. Prolonged exposure can cause significant health problems, including liver and kidney damage, and requires careful handling. Therefore, awareness should be lent to toluene as a cause in severe hypokalemia. Toluene diisocyanate exists in two isomeric forms (2,4-toluene diisocyanate and 2,6-toluene diisocyanate) which have similar properties and effects. Most brands currently offer nail polish that is either 3-free or 5-free. Toluene vapours are irritating to the eyes, nose, throat and respiratory tract Jun 26, 2024 · Chronic toluene abuse can also cause a serious neurological disorder called toluene leukoencephalopathy, a type of dementia that is irreversible. Long-term solvent abuse of any kind can lead to a long list of health problems. Toluene exposure is linked to adverse effects in developing fetuses and has the potential to cause birth defects. This article is for information only. While E6000 is a powerful adhesive, it is important to handle it with care due to its potentially toxic nature. OSHA reports that exposure to toluene can cause respiratory issues. Some people are harmed by sniffing or inhaling toluene vapors to get “high. Toluene occurs naturally in crude oil and in the tolú tree. May 24, 2024 · Toluene is toxic if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Fortunately, if you’re struggling with toluene abuse, there are treatment options that can help. Toluene is the main chemical that causes many of the signs and symptoms seen with inhalation of glue and paint. The ‘Substance identity’ section is calculated from substance identification information from all ECHA databases. Immune system, vision, and hearing effects. EPA) identifies the most serious hazardous waste sites in the nation. Toluene and xylene. Jan 1, 2024 · Toluene poisoning manifests as distal renal tubular acidosis type 1 (RTA-1), which is commonly characterized as hyperchloremic with a normal anion-gap, hypokalemia, and muscular paralysis. Unintentional chronic exposure to toluene is mainly seen among workers handling substances that contain the chemical. Immediate effects include narcosis, fatigue, sleepiness, headache, nausea. May 1994. Although most of these compounds do not remain in the body for prolonged periods, little is known about exactly how long tissue levels persist in highly exposed animals or the effects on fetuses. Toluene concentrations measured in portable and main building 2. The higher the octane number or rating, the greater the fuel’s resistance to knocking or pinging during combustion. ” Five-free refers to polishes that do not contain five specific ingredients: formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, formaldehyde resin, and camphor. There is evidence that exposure to toluene at work is Jul 5, 2024 · Pure toluene (melting point, -95° C [-139° F]; boiling point, 110. Benzene is known to cause hematological disorders. “If a formula is 3-free, it means there’s no dibutyl phthalate (DBP), toluene, or formaldehyde; 5-free also excludes that ‘toxic trio’ plus formaldehyde resin and camphor,” says Amy Ling, founder of sundays. Toluene has the potential of causing severe neurological harm. Thus, the vapors inhaled when “sniffing” such adhesives will contain less toluene and should be less toxic than would be expected from its liquid composition (Midford et al. Jun 9, 2020 · One 2009 study found that burning paraffin wax releases potentially dangerous chemicals, such as toluene. The highest concentrations of toluene are often found in buildings immediately after construction or renovation (Brown, 2002). Motheräó»s exposure to toluene vapors during pregnancy may cause developmental damage in the fetus. Toluene applied in a non-occluded fashion is absorbed through the skin only to a minor extent Footnote 59 Footnote 60 and would not be absorbed in toxic quantities during normal industrial use Footnote 60. “Even the highest users of scented candles and other fragranced Some of the absorbed compounds are metabolized into more toxic by-products (eg, benzene, toluene, and n-hexane). 22 2-6. It is used in making paints, paint Toxicological Profile for Toluene. Symptoms include pain, redness, and swelling. Its chemical formula is that of methylbenzene, C 6 H 5 CH 3. . Toluene is used in these applications because it is dense and contains significant energy per unit of Contact adhesives often contain toluene, heptane, and methyl ethyl ketone. Toluene is typically used in a mixture with other solvents and chemicals such as paint pigments. Inhalation The acute toxic effects following inhalation of toluene are summarised in the table. Common concerns Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive smell. 584-84-9) Documentation for Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health Concentrations (IDLHs) This publication documents the criteria and information sources that have been used by NIOSH to determine immediately dangerous to life or health concentrations (IDLHs). Methylisocyanate (MIC) (CAS No. 2,4-Toluene diisocyanate is extremely toxic from acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) exposures. The assessment of whether toluene is "toxic" under CEPA is presented in section 3. Toluene affects the central nervous system, eyes, skin, respiratory system, liver, kidneys. Each peer-reviewed profile identifies and reviews the key literature that describes a substance's toxicological properties. iately or shortly after exposure to Toluene:Contact can irritate the skin and eyes. It also evaporates from water. Inhalation is the most common route of exposure. In human epidemiological studies and in animal studies toluene has been also associated with toxicity to the immune system and a possible link to blood cancer such as malignant lymphoma. It is calculated using a weight-of-evidence Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive smell. Toluene has a low acute toxicity. The goals of this CSEM are to increase the knowledge of health care providers, especially pediatricians, of the special susceptibilities of children to hazardous substances in the environment and to aid in their Toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (TDI) (CAS No. During recent years, the results of experimental and human investigations have raised the level of concern about the potential ototoxicity of chemical agents and their interaction with noise. LD50 is the amount of substance that, when given as a single dose, results in the death of half of the test animals. Liver toxicity may also be a consequence of toluene exposure . The primary concern stems from the presence of chemicals like toluene and acetone in its composition. Significant exposure to toluene during pregnancy may affect the baby’s development. The U. lvent. It is produced in the process of making gasoline and other fuels from crude oil and in making coke from coal. List of known side effects. When toluene-containing products are placed in landfills or waste disposal sites, toluene can enter the soil and water near the waste site. The CIR reviewed toluene in This Public Health Statement summarizes the Division of Toxicology and Human Health Science’s findings on toluene, tells you about them, the effects of exposure, and describes what you can do to limit that exposure. Signs and symptoms of acute exposure are nonspecific and include irritation of the nose and throat, shortness Dec 13, 2021 · Toluene (C 7 H 8) is an aromatic hydrocarbon, colourless liquid, water-insoluble with the smell associated with paint thinners and it is predominantly used as an industrial feedstock and a solvent in some types of paint thinner, permanent markers, some types of glue. The most common route of exposure for toluene in the ambient air is in automobile emissions. 624-83-9) Toluene is used as a solvent in a variety of nail products, including some nail polishes, nail hardeners, and polish removers; however, its use is being phased-out. Liver injury and rhabdomyolysis are common. C coughing, shortness of breath or wheezing. Respiratory and kidney toxicity. Can cause effects as described for inhalation. Breathing high levels of toluene during pregnancy has been shown to result in children with birth defects and to retard mental abilities and growth. 30 : 2-7. It has moderate chronic (long-term) toxicity to Aug 27, 2019 · Toluene toxicity is a clinical diagnosis, although serum toluene and urine hippuric acid have been described as diagnostic measures. 6° C [231. Toluene (methylbenzene, toluol, phenylmethane) is an aromatic hydrocarbon (C7 H8) commonly used as an industrial solvent for the manufacturing of paints, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and rubber. Toluene is also used in the manufacture of other chemicals, nylon, and plastics. Nov 21, 2019 · “Non-toxic” nail polish. The central nervous system (CNS) is the primary target organ for toluene toxicity in both humans and animals for acute (short-term) and chronic (long Aug 31, 2016 · EPA is proposing a Significant New Use Rule (SNUR) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Oct 16, 2017 · These days, there are plenty of safer options. Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive smell. Print. Nov 9, 2021 · Exposure to chemicals emitted by scented candles “is so low that they pose no significant risk to human health,” she said. g. Apr 11, 2022 · Next: Physical Examination. Nov 22, 2022 · When you burn a candle, you release hydrocarbons — chemical compounds consisting of hydrogen and carbon — into the air. Toluene and xylene poisoning can occur when someone swallows these substances, breathes in their fumes, or when these substances touch the skin. Industrial-strength glue is most dangerous. Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid which becomes a vapor when exposed to air at room temperature. C chest pain or tightness. Toluene diisocyanate is a strong irritant to the eyes, skin, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory system. It can cause systemic toxicity by inhalation or ingestion. People 2,4-Toluene diisocyanate is primarily used as a chemical intermediate in the production of polyurenthane products. NIOSH REL: 100 ppm (375 mg/m 3) TWA, 150 ppm (560 mg/m 3) STEL. Relative Potency of Toluene, Xylene, and Their 1:1 Mixture on Rotarod Performance in Rats . #7. It is absorbed slowly through the skin. Homes built before 1978 may contain lead-based paint. Noise is the most common preventable cause of irreversible sensorineural hearing loss. Some substance identifiers may have been claimed Nov 2, 2023 · Most household glues, such as Elmer's Glue-All, are not poisonous. Toluene has caused membrane damage to the leaves in plants. In a large case series of 25 patients with toluene toxicity, the presenting complaint was muscle weakness in 9 (36%), neuropsychiatric symptoms in 10 (40%) and gastrointestinal complaints in 6 patients (24%). Toluene exposure can be unintentional or intentional. I’m sharing some of my favorite healthy nail polish brands and some of the best nail trends to try in 2023! Tip: Remember to use a proper base coat and top coat (non-toxic) to give yourself a proper chip-resistant manicure! Dec 24, 2023 · Toluene, chemically known as methylbenzene, is a hydrocarbon with the formula C₇H₈, featuring a benzene ring with a single methyl group. Toluene is used in making paints, paint thinners, fingernail polish, lacquers, adhesives, and rubber and in Mar 20, 2023 · LD means lethal dose. Causes moderate to severe irritation. toluene in 37 small- and medium-sized commercial buildings (SMCBs) in California. We also described elevations in alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and in a few patients, instances Reasons for Toluene Toxicity and Addiction. Work. May 10, 2024 · Symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion. In many cases, toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP were swapped for chemicals that, at best, aren’t Influence of Benzene on Toxicity of Toluene after Simultaneous Exposure . The Skin Deep ingredient hazard score, from 1 to 10, reflects known and suspected hazards linked to the ingredients. Toluene Hazards. 108-88-3. Toluene is mildly irritating to the mucous membranes, skin, and eyes. Toluene is used in making paints, paint Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive smell. S. Subcutaneous injections of toluene (50, 500 mg/kg) or DES (2 mg/kg) were administered to male Sprague-Dawley rats for 10 days in order to lower their blood Toluene can enter surface waters and groundwater (e. Keep this page and take it with you to your next. Hazard score. Proposition 65 requires businesses to determine if they must provide a warning about significant exposure to listed chemicals. The effects of photochemical reaction products of toluene are not addressed in this assessment but are considered in the Federal/Provincial Management Plan for nitrogen oxides (NO x) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) [CCME, 1990]. It is used in. Although toluene is more toxic than the other ingredients, it evaporates more slowly. Prolonged exposure to toluene fumes or Toluene is irritating to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Toluene occurs naturally in crude oil and in the tolu tree. The hallmark complications of toluene toxicity are renal tubular acidosis and hypokalemic paralysis. 16,20 In our case, diagnostic delay and improper sample handling rendered these tests inconclusive. A product’s hazard score is not an average of the ingredients’ hazard scores. Toluene. Toluene is a highly toxic chemical that can bring about a wide range of detrimental health effects when inhaled, swallowed, or when it comes into contact with the skin Mar 5, 2024 · Volatile organic compounds, or VOCs are organic chemical compounds whose composition makes it possible for them to evaporate under normal indoor atmospheric conditions of temperature and pressure 3. They are released into the environment from mobile sources in urban settings, but newly polluted areas are gaining importance in countries where accelerated industrialization is taking This Public Health Statement summarizes the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry’s (ATSDR) findings on toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and methylenediphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), including chemical characteristics, exposure risks, possible health effects from exposure, and ways to limit exposure. It comes in 400 vegan-friendly shades, the colors are gorgeous, and it's a Toluene is a toxic chemical used in in nail products and hair dyes. Exposure to toluene can result in temporary effects such as headaches, dizziness and cracked skin, as well as more serious effects such as reproductive damage and respiratory complications. A severe exposure can cause unconsciousness. Short-term exposure to airborne toluene levels of less than 100 ppm has not been associated with discomfort. Aug 1, 2017 · However, the root cause was one not commonly included in the differential diagnosis of these clinical symptoms. [ ] Call your doctor or the Emergency Department next 24 hours, especially: C fatigue, headache, dizziness, tremor or seizures. ” Aug 18, 2015 · In a previous case series, we retrospectively studied 22 cases of acute toluene toxicity and found that toluene inhalation is associated with various severe metabolic alterations, including RTA-1, hypokalemic paralysis and profound metabolic acidemia . Soy candles produce less soot and toxic chemicals than candles made from paraffin. 15A], (January 20, 1999). Summary of Available Data on the Influence of Toluene on Metabolism of Xylene and the Summary: Toluene is a clear, colorless liquid with a distinctive smell. Apr 10, 2020 · Acute exposure to toluene vapor can irritate the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. On admission, altered mental status, renal failure, severe acidemia and female gender (not significant in our study, but present in all three deaths) could be ass … Toluene and xylene are strong compounds that are used in many household and industrial products. General health effects include lethality, growth, morbidity, liver and kidney damage and miscellaneous effects. Abstract. Toluene is a widely used industrial solvent, and humans may also have high exposures to toluene from the deliberate inhalation ("sniffing") of paint reducer, paint thinner, or paint for their narcotic effects. This proposed SNUR would require manufacturers (including importers) and processors of TDI and related compounds in consumer products to notify EPA at least 90 days before starting or resuming uses of these chemicals. Toluene produces tinnitus and can cause hearing loss after chronic exposure. Zoya is one of the bigger names in the nontoxic nail polish world, and for good reason. The substance identifiers displayed in the InfoCard are the best available substance name, EC number, CAS number and/or the molecular and structural formulas. It contains descriptions and evaluations of toxicological studies and epidemiological investigations and provides conclusions, where possible, on the relevance of toxicity and May 8, 2024 · In July 2023, EPA added a category of diisononyl phthalate (DINP) chemicals to the TRI list. the chemical’s toxicity and material for responding to a chemical incident. Apr 11, 2022 · Next: Emergency Department Care. Hearing frequencies affected by toluene are different from those affected by noise but both factors can act synergistically to diminish hearing [ 20 ]. . Case Studies in Environmental Medicine (CSEM): Toluene Toxicity . Cigarette smoke is also a source of toluene. Skin Contact: SKIN IRRITANT. In the air it quickly is reacted into other chemicals, in the water and soil bacteria break it down. While no direct human evidence is available, there is recent evidence of carcinogenicity of toluene and xylene at high concentrations in experimental animals. A number of case reports describe neonatal effects that have been attributed to toluene abuse during pregnancy. Toluene is a good solvent (a substance that can dissolve other substances). Information Toluene. What happens when toluene is mixed with water? General toxicity The main target organ of toluene-induced toxicity is the central nervous system (CNS). PDF, 162 KB, 4 pages. Exposure to toluene may occur from breathing ambient or indoor air affected by such. In addition, inhalant addicts have suffocated to death by filling their lungs with toxic gases that displace oxygen and prevent air sacs from functioning properly. Can be absorbed through the skin. 1989 OSHA PEL: 100 ppm (375 mg/m 3) TWA, 150 ppm (560 mg/m 3) STEL. Toluene vapor has a sharp or sweet odor, which is a sign of exposure. zb op pt sw hd nz kk ex wu ow