A quick google on methanol gave me this, it may be helpful;
Human exposure to methanol can occur via absorption, contact with the eyes, inhalation or ingestion.
Absorption
No serious adverse effects result from skin contact so long as repeated and excessive exposures are avoided.
Eye Contact
Methanol is a mild to moderate eye irritant. High vapour concentration or liquid contact with eyes causes irritation, tearing and burning.
Inhalation
Inhalation of methanol vapours is the most frequent type of exposure. The methanol threshold limit value (TLV) for a time weighted average (TWA) is 200 ppm. This is the maximum average concentration a worker should be exposed to over a continuous eight hour period.
The short term exposure limit (STEL) of methanol is 250 ppm. The STEL sets limits on excursions for periods of up to 15 minutes, four times per day with at least 60 minutes between exposure periods, so long as individuals are suffering no irritation or discomfort.
It is important to note that the odour threshold of methanol is several times higher than the TLV-TWA.
Ingestion
Methanol taken by mouth may pose a serious threat to life. One to four ounces of methanol have been known to cause fatalities. Ingestion produces similar effects to that of inhalation of vapours, but severity and speed of appearance of symptoms are increased.
Symptoms and Effects of Exposure
Methanol can cause poisoning, systemic acidosis, optic nerve damage and central nervous system (CNS) effects. Methanol can degrease the skin, which may cause dermatitis.
Symptoms of methanol poisoning do not depend on the uptake route and develop in three stages:
1. An initial narcotic effect; followed by
2. a symptom-free interval lasting 10-48 hours; and
3. nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, headache, vomiting, and lassitude, followed by characteristic symptoms such as blurred vision, opthalmalgia, photophobia and possibly xanthopsia.
For instance;
• 1,000 ppm will produce symptoms such as irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes.
• 5,000 ppm will result in a stupor or sleepiness.
• 50,000 ppm will result in narcosis (deep unconsciousness) in one or two hours, probably resulting in death.
Because the compound and its harmful metabolites are eliminated slowly, methanol is regarded as a cumulative poison.
First Aid Measures
In case of methanol contact with the skin, remove contaminated clothing. Wash with soap and water for 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation occurs.
In case of methanol contact with the eyes, flush immediately with gently running water for a minimum of 15 minutes, ensuring all surfaces and crevices are flushed by lifting lower and upper lids. Obtain medical attention.
In case of inhalation of methanol vapours, remove the individual to fresh air, but only if it is safe to do so. Asphyxiation from vapours may require artificial respiration. Due to the possibility of delayed onset of more serious illness, it is important to obtain medical attention.
Ingestion of methanol is life threatening. Onset of symptoms may be delayed for 18 to 24 hours after ingestion. Do not induce vomiting. Transport to medical attention. The individual should remain under close medical care and observation for several days.
Safety Precautions
All personnel must be aware of the hazardous properties of methanol, and exercise caution to avoid contact with it.
At all times, avoid prolonged or repeated breathing of methanol vapours.
Proper ventilation is required to ensure safe working conditions. The type of ventilation will depend upon such factors as dead air spaces, temperature, convection currents and wind direction and must be considered when determining equipment location, type and capacity. If mechanical ventilation is used, spark-proof fans should be implemented. Methanol should always be kept within closed systems or approved containers and never left open to the atmosphere. Containers should be labelled in accordance with local regulations and site requirements.
Eye wash fountains or bottles should be strategically placed within the work place. When large quantities of methanol are handled, safety showers with quick opening valve systems should be suitably located and protected from freezing. Breathing apparatus and resuscitation kits should be available.
The level of risk of exposure to methanol will dictate the appropriate level of personal protective equipment (PPE) required.
At a minimum, the wearing side shielded safety spectacles and task appropriate gloves are recommended. Depending upon the situation, PPE may also include appropriate footwear, face shields, respiratory protection, fire-resistant clothing, or chemical suits.
Pete,