Key Points

Fire

• Non-flammable, but forms an extremely flammable gas (phosphine) on contact with water or damp air
• Reacts violently when in contact with water. Explosive reaction on contact with mineral acids and concentrated or dilute hydrochloric acid
• Decomposes on contact with water to form highly flammable and toxic phosphine. Releases toxic and irritating oxides of phosphorus fumes when heated to decomposition
• In the event of a fire involving aluminium phosphide, use dry agent and liquid-tight chemical protective clothing in combination with breathing apparatus. Water must  NOT be allowed to come into contact with substance

Health

• Toxic by inhalation and ingestion
• CHIP classification: very toxic
• Inhalation causes irritation to the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth throat and respiratory tract. Weakness, chest pain, dry mouth, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain, headache, dizziness, ataxia and confusion may occur
• Ingestion causes stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, swelling of lips, mouth and thrpat shortly after ingestion. Chest tightness, cough, headache, dizziness, anxiety and restlessness may also occur
• Dermal exposure may cause sweating and irritation
• Ocular exposure may cause irritation, lacrimation and increased sensitivity to light  

Environment

• Dangerous for the environment
• Inform the Environment Agency of substantial releases

 

All sections of the compendia are available to download:

• Aluminium Phosphide General Information (PDF, 59 KB)
• Incident Management (PDF, 111 KB)