Health Hazard Information
Acute Effects:
Acute exposure of humans to high concentrations of methyl ethyl ketone produces irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. (1,4)
Other effects reported from acute inhalation exposure in humans include central nervous system depression, headache, and nausea. (1,4)
Dermatitis has been reported in humans following dermal exposure to methyl ethyl ketone. (1)
Tests involving acute exposure of rabbits has shown methyl ethyl ketone to have high acute toxicity from dermal exposure, while acute oral exposure of rats and mice has shown the chemical to have moderate toxicity from ingestion. (5)
Acute inhalation tests in rats indicate low toxicity from methyl ethyl ketone exposure via inhalation. (5)
link:
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (2-Butanone) | Technology Transfer Network Air Toxics Web site | US EPA