Acetylene: general information
Updated 10 December 2024
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/acetylene-properties-incident-management-and-toxicology/acetylene-general-information
Overview
Acetylene is a colourless, odourless extremely flammable gas. When contaminated with impurities it has a garlic-like odour. It is extremely flammable in the presence of open flames, sparks, and heat. Other names for acetylene include ethine and ethyne. Acetylene is a simple asphyxiant. It reduces the amount of oxygen available in the air.
Uses of Acetylene
Acetylene is used in industry as a raw material in the production of other chemicals such as acetaldehyde and vinyl chloride. It is also used in oxy-acetylene welding and in the production of plastics, synthetic rubbers and modern drugs.
How Acetylene gets into the environment
Acetylene may be released into the air following its production and use.
Exposure to Acetylene
Exposure is most likely to occur in the workplace where it is made or used.
How exposure to Acetylene can affect your health
The presence of acetylene in the environment does not always lead to exposure. Clearly, in order for it to cause any adverse health effects you must come into contact with it. You may be exposed by breathing, eating, or drinking the substance or by skin contact.
Following exposure to any chemical, the adverse health effects you may encounter depend on several factors, including the amount to which you are exposed (dose), the way you are exposed, the duration of exposure, the form of the chemical and if you were exposed to any other chemicals. Inhalation may cause excitement, slurred speech, dizziness, nausea and vomiting and headache. Exposure to high concentrations can lead to difficulty breathing, high blood pressure, fits and heart abnormal rhythms.
Acetylene and cancer
There are no data available to assess the carcinogenicity of acetylene
Vulnerable people
People with breathing problems, such as asthma, may be more sensitive to the effects of Acetylene.
Pregnancy and the unborn child
There are no data available to assess the reproductive and developmental effects of acetylene. Exposure to acetylene during pregnancy should be avoided because of its general toxic effects.
Children
Children exposed to acetylene will display similar effects to those seen in exposed adults, although the effects may be more severe.
What to do if you are exposed to Acetylene
It is very unlikely that the general population will be exposed to a level of acetylene high enough to cause adverse health effects. However, if you have any health concerns regarding exposure to acetylene, seek guidance from your GP or contact NHS 111.
Additional sources of information
UKTIS. Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy
The information contained in this document from the UKHSA Radiation, Chemicals and Environment Directorate is correct at the time of its publication.
Email chemcompendium@ukhsa.gov.uk if you have any questions about this guidance or enquiries@ukhsa.gov.uk if you have any other questions.
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