Safety and Hazards
Information on safety and hazards for this compound, including safety/hazards properties, reactivity, incompatibilities, management techniques, first aid treatments, and more. For toxicity and related information, please see the Toxicity section.
Hazards Identification
This section identifies the hazards of the chemical presented on the safety data sheet (SDS) and the appropriate warning information associated with those hazards. The information in this section includes, but are not limited to, the hazard classification of the chemical, signal word, pictograms, hazard statements and precautionary statements.
GHS Classification
GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) is a United Nations system to identify hazardous chemicals and to inform users about these hazards. GHS has been adopted by many countries around the world and is now also used as the basis for international and national transport regulations for dangerous goods. The GHS hazard statements, class categories, pictograms, signal words, and the precautionary statements can be found on the PubChem GHS page.
This chemical does not meet GHS hazard criteria for 13% (94 of 721) of reports.
Danger
H302 (16.2%): Harmful if swallowed [Warning Acute toxicity, oral]
H315 (28.4%): Causes skin irritation [Warning Skin corrosion/irritation]
H317 (20.8%): May cause an allergic skin reaction [Warning Sensitization, Skin]
H319 (30.1%): Causes serious eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]
H334 (11.7%): May cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled [Danger Sensitization, respiratory]
H372 (43.6%): Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]
H373 (11.4%): May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Warning Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]
H411 (14%): Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects [Hazardous to the aquatic environment, long-term hazard]
Aggregated GHS information provided per 721 reports by companies from 53 notifications to the ECHA C&L Inventory. Each notification may be associated with multiple companies.
Reported as not meeting GHS hazard criteria per 94 of 721 reports by companies.
There are 51 notifications provided by 627 of 721 reports by companies with hazard statement code(s).
Information may vary between notifications depending on impurities, additives, and other factors. The percentage value in parenthesis indicates the notified classification ratio from companies that provide hazard codes. Only hazard codes with percentage values above 10% are shown. For more detailed information, please visit ECHA C&L website.ECHA C&L website.
Danger
H320: Causes eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]
H361: Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child [Warning Reproductive toxicity]
H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]
P203, P260, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P305+P351+P338, P318, P319, P337+P317, P405, and P501
(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)
Danger
H320: Causes eye irritation [Warning Serious eye damage/eye irritation]
H360: May damage fertility or the unborn child [Danger Reproductive toxicity]
H362: May cause harm to breast-fed children [Reproductive toxicity, effects on or via lactation]
H370: Causes damage to organs [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, single exposure]
H372: Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure [Danger Specific target organ toxicity, repeated exposure]
P203, P260, P263, P264, P264+P265, P270, P280, P305+P351+P338, P308+P316, P318, P319, P321, P337+P317, P405, and P501
(The corresponding statement to each P-code can be found at the GHS Classification page.)
Hazard Classes and Categories
The Hazard Classes and Categories are aligned with GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) hazard statement codes. The percentage data in the parenthesis from ECHA indicates that the hazard classes and categories information are consolidated from multiple companies. Also, see the detailed explanation from the above GHS classification section.
Acute Tox. 4 (16.2%)
Skin Irrit. 2 (28.4%)
Skin Sens. 1B (20.8%)
Eye Irrit. 2 (30.1%)
Resp. Sens. 1 (11.7%)
STOT RE 1 (43.6%)
STOT RE 2 (11.4%)
Aquatic Chronic 2 (14%)
Serious eye damage/eye irritation - Category 2B
Reproductive toxicity - Category 2
Specific target organ toxicity - Repeated exposure - Category 1 (thyroid, skin, systemic toxicity)
Serious eye damage/eye irritation - Category 2B
Reproductive toxicity - Category 1B, Additional category: Effects on or via lactation
Specific target organ toxicity - Single exposure - Category 1 (thyroid)
Specific target organ toxicity - Repeated exposure - Category 1 (skin, thyroid, systemic toxicity)
Health Hazards
Description of the chemical's health hazards (e.g., toxicity, corrosivity, and flammability) that can have negative impacts on our short- or long-term health.
May irritate eyes or open cuts. (USCG, 1999)
Hazards Summary
This section provides an overview of the key hazards information of this compound.
A skin and eye irritant; [CAMEO] Emergency treatment: Iodides; After ingestion, hypersensitivity reactions, e.g., angioedema and urticaria, may occur; Chronic ingestion may cause various skin diseases, goiter, hypothyroidism, and congenital thyroid effects; [HSDB] May cause sensitization by skin contact; [Quick CPC] See Iodine for the TLV of Iodides.
First Aid Measures
This section describes the initial care that should be given to an individual who has been exposed to the chemical. The information in this section includes the description of the symptoms or effects of exposure to the chemical, necessary first-aid instructions by relevant routes of exposure (inhalation, skin and eye contact, and ingestion), and recommendations for immediate medical care and special treatment needed, when necessary.
First Aid
First aid measures for exposure to this chemical through various routes (for example, ingestion, inhalation, skin contact, and eye contact).
Flush all affected areas with water. (USCG, 1999)
Accidental Release Measures
This section provides recommendations on the appropriate response to spills, leaks, or releases, including containment and cleanup practices to prevent or minimize exposure to people, properties, or the environment. It may also include recommendations distinguishing between responses for large and small spills where the spill volume has a significant impact on the hazard.
Disposal Methods
Disposal methods or procedures for this chemical or hazardous waste containing it.
SRP: The most favorable course of action is to use an alternative chemical product with less inherent propensity for occupational exposure or environmental contamination. Recycle any unused portion of the material for its approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. Ultimate disposal of the chemical must consider: the material's impact on air quality; potential migration in soil or water; effects on animal, aquatic, and plant life; and conformance with environmental and public health regulations.
Handling and Storage
This section provides guidance on the safe handling practices and storage conditions for this chemical. The information in this section includes precautions for safe handling, such as recommendations for handling incompatible chemicals, minimizing the release of the chemical into the environment, and providing advice on general hygiene practices (e.g., eating, drinking, and smoking in work areas is prohibited). In addition, this section provides recommendations on the conditions for safe storage (including any incompatibilities) as well as advice on specific storage requirements (e.g., ventilation requirements).
Storage Conditions
Conditions for safe storage of this compound, including any incompatible chemicals and specific storage requirements (e.g., ventilation requirements).
Store below 40 °C (104 °F), preferably between 15 and 30 °C (59 and 86 °F), unless otherwise specified by manufacturer. Store in a tight container.
Exposure Control and Personal Protection
This section provides information on the exposure limits, engineering controls, and personal protective measures that can be used to minimize worker exposure. The information in this section includes OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs), American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Values (TLVs), and any other exposure limit used or recommended by the chemical manufacturer, importer, or employer preparing the safety data sheet, where available. In addition, this section contains information on appropriate engineering controls (e.g., use local exhaust ventilation, or use only in an enclosed system) as well as recommendations for personal protective measures to prevent illness or injury from exposure to chemicals, such as personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., appropriate types of eye, face, skin or respiratory protection needed based on hazards and potential exposure).
Threshold Limit Values (TLV)
The threshold limit value (TLV) of a chemical is an airborne concentration at which a worker can be exposed day after day for a working lifetime without adverse effect. There are three types of TLVs for chemicals. [1] Threshold limit value - time-weighted average (TLV-TWA): average exposure on the basis of a 8h/day, 40h/week work schedule. [2] Threshold limit value - short-term exposure limit (TLV-STEL): a 15-minute TWA exposure that should not be exceeded at any time during a workday, even if the 8-hour TWA is within the TLV-TWA. [3] Threshold limit value - ceiling limit (TLV-C): absolute exposure limit that should not be exceeded at any time. TLVs are developed by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienist. While TLVs are widely accepted occupational exposure limits, they are not standards enforced by the U.S. Government.
0.01 [ppm], inhalable fraction and vapor (iodides)
Allowable Tolerances
The tolerances of a chemical (usually a pesticide) are the maximum amount of chemical residues allowed to remain in or on fruits, vegetables, grains, and other foods, as part of the process of regulating pesticides. In some countries tolerances are called maximum residue limits (MRLs).
Residues of the following chemical substances are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation, provided that the substance is applied on a semi-permanent or permanent food-contact surface (other than being applied on food packaging) with adequate draining before contact with food. (a) The following chemical substances when used as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation may be applied to: Food-contact surfaces in public eating places, dairy-processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils. Potassium iodide is included on this list. Limit: When ready for use, the total end-use concentration of all iodide-producing chemicals in the solution is not to exceed 25 ppm of titratable iodine.
Residues of the following chemical substances are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation, provided that the substance is applied on a semi-permanent or permanent food-contact surface (other than being applied on food packaging) with adequate draining before contact with food. ... (b) The following chemical substances when used as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation may be applied to: Dairy processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils. Potassium iodide is included on this list. Limit: When ready for use, the total end-use concentration of all iodide-producing chemicals in the solution is not to exceed 25 ppm of titratable iodine.
Residues of the following chemical substances are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation, provided that the substance is applied on a semi-permanent or permanent food-contact surface (other than being applied on food packaging) with adequate draining before contact with food. ... (c) The following chemical substances when used as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation may be applied to: Food-processing equipment and utensils. Potassium iodide is included on this list. Limit: When ready for use, the total end-use concentration of all iodide-producing chemicals in the solution is not to exceed 25 ppm of titratable iodine.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE) to use when handling this chemical.
Goggles or face shield. (USCG, 1999)
Stability and Reactivity
This section describes the stability and reactivity hazards of the chemical. For some compounds, related information may also be found in the "Stability/Shelf Life" section under Experimental Properties (if available).
Air and Water Reactions
Special alerts if this chemical reacts with air, water, or moisture.
Water soluble.
Reactive Group
List of reactive groups that this chemical belongs to, according to CAMEO Chemicals at the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Salts, Basic
Reducing Agents, Weak
Reactivity Profile
Description of the chemical's potential reactivity with other chemicals, air, and water. Also it includes any other intrinsic reactive hazards (such as polymerizable or peroxidizable).
Potassium iodide is a weak reducing agent, and may react with strong or weak oxidizing agents.
Bromine trifluoride rapidly attacks potassium iodide [Mellor 2, Supp. 1:164, 165. 1956].
Hazardous Reactivities and Incompatibilities
This compound may undergo hazardous reactions with other chemicals. Therefore, it is considered incompatible with those chemicals and should not be used with them.
A sample of fluorine perchlorate exploded on contact with a potassium iodide solution.
Incompatibilities: mercurous chloride in presence of an excess of potassium iodide produces metallic mercury & mercuric iodide, the latter forming the soluble double salt, potassium mercuric iodide.
Regulatory Information
This section lists the regulations related to the safety, health, and environment of the chemical and its associated products. The regulatory information, which may encompass national and/or regional regulations pertaining to the chemical or mixtures, is presented solely for informational purposes. For additional details, please consult the links to the information sources provided under each data entry.
Chemical: Potassium iodide (KI)
05/751/EC, Reg. (EU) No 116/2014
Status: Active Update: 20-02-2023 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/13207
Status: Active Update: 20-12-2022 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/5883
Status: Active Update: 13-10-2016 https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/18150
Potassium iodide: Does not have an individual approval but may be used under an appropriate group standard
State Drinking Water Guidelines
State drinking water guidelines (e.g. maximum containment level (MCL)) for this chemical. In general, these guidelines are recommendations and not legally enforceable.
(ME) MAINE 340 ug/L /Iodide ion/
FIFRA Requirements
The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) is the Federal statute that governs the registration, distribution, sale, and use of pesticides in the United States.
Residues of the following chemical substances are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation, provided that the substance is applied on a semi-permanent or permanent food-contact surface (other than being applied on food packaging) with adequate draining before contact with food. (a) The following chemical substances when used as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation may be applied to: Food-contact surfaces in public eating places, dairy-processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils. Potassium iodide is included on this list. Limit: When ready for use, the total end-use concentration of all iodide-producing chemicals in the solution is not to exceed 25 ppm of titratable iodine.
Residues of the following chemical substances are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation, provided that the substance is applied on a semi-permanent or permanent food-contact surface (other than being applied on food packaging) with adequate draining before contact with food. ... (b) The following chemical substances when used as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation may be applied to: Dairy processing equipment, and food-processing equipment and utensils. Potassium iodide is included on this list. Limit: When ready for use, the total end-use concentration of all iodide-producing chemicals in the solution is not to exceed 25 ppm of titratable iodine.
Residues of the following chemical substances are exempted from the requirement of a tolerance when used in accordance with good manufacturing practice as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation, provided that the substance is applied on a semi-permanent or permanent food-contact surface (other than being applied on food packaging) with adequate draining before contact with food. ... (c) The following chemical substances when used as ingredients in an antimicrobial pesticide formulation may be applied to: Food-processing equipment and utensils. Potassium iodide is included on this list. Limit: When ready for use, the total end-use concentration of all iodide-producing chemicals in the solution is not to exceed 25 ppm of titratable iodine.
As the federal pesticide law FIFRA directs, EPA is conducting a comprehensive review of older pesticides to consider their health and environmental effects and make decisions about their future use. Under this pesticide reregistration program, EPA examines health and safety data for pesticide active ingredients initially registered before November 1, 1984, and determines whether they are eligible for reregistration. In addition, all pesticides must meet the new safety standard of the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996. Pesticides for which EPA had not issued Registration Standards prior to the effective date of FIFRA '88 were divided into three lists based upon their potential for human exposure and other factors, with List B containing pesticides of greater concern and List D pesticides of less concern. Potassium Iodide is found on List C. Case No: 3080; Pesticide type: fungicide, herbicide, antimicrobial; Case Status: OPP is reviewing data from the pesticide's producers regarding its human health and/or environmental effects, or OPP is determining the pesticide's eligibility for reregistration and developing the RED document.; Active ingredient (AI): potassium iodide; AI Status: The producers of the pesticide have made commitments to conduct the studies and pay the fees required for reregistration, and are meeting those commitments in a timely manner.
FDA Requirements
FDA requirements regarding this chemical and products containing it. FDA Requirements means any requirements of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), as amended, and any rules or regulations promulgated thereunder which are or may be applicable to the manufacture, sale, labeling or distribution of the products regulated by FDA (e.g., drugs, biologics, dietary supplements, foods, cosmetics, tobacco products, etc.).
The Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations List identifies currently marketed over-the-counter drug products, incl potassium iodide, approved on the basis of safety and effectiveness by FDA under sections 505 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
Potassium iodide is a food additive permitted for direct addition to food for human consumption, as long as 1) the quantity of the substance added to food does not exceed the amount reasonably required to accomplish its intended physical, nutritive, or other technical effect in food, and 2) any substance intended for use in or on food is of appropriate food grade and is prepared and handled as a food ingredient.
Substance added directly to human food affirmed as generally recognized as safe (GRAS).
Potassium iodide used as a nutrient and/or dietary supplement in animal drugs, feeds, and related products is generally recognized as safe when used in table salt as a source of dietary iodine in accordance with good manufacturing or feeding practice.
For more FDA Requirements (Complete) data for POTASSIUM IODIDE (6 total), please visit the HSDB record page.
Other Safety Information
Miscellaneous safety information for this chemical that is not shown in other sections, such as history, incidents, special reports, and so on.
IMAP assessments - Potassium iodide (KI): Environment tier I assessment
IMAP assessments - Potassium iodide (KI): Human health tier I assessment
Special Reports
Special reports on the safety and hazard of this chemical. Most of them are government documents and review articles.
FDA, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research; Guidance Document: Potassium Iodide as a Thyroid Blocking Agent in Radiation Emergencies; December 2001. Available at http://www.fda.gov/cder/guidance/4825fnl.htm as of March 12, 2006