The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), through its Chemical Hazards Technical Committee (CHD 7), has recently published a draft standard titled Hexane – Code of Safety (First Revision) (Document No. CHD 7 (33985) WC) and is seeking public comments. The deadline for feedback is May 22, 2026.
Background
Hexane (CAS No. 110-54-3) is a hydrocarbon solvent widely used in refineries and edible oil extraction processes. It is highly flammable and poses potential health hazards, including drowsiness, impaired coordination, and severe respiratory effects under high exposure levels.
Key Changes
- Added general properties of hexane
- Updated safety measures for effective hazard control
- Added detailed information on poisoning symptoms
- Supplemented guidelines on first aid and medical treatment
- Strengthened provisions on storage, handling, and labelling
- Added employee safety measures and training requirements
- Detailed fire and explosion hazards
- Added information on exposure routes and toxicity
- Supplemented fire prevention and firefighting measures
- Added provisions on health monitoring
- Revised the standard title to Hexane – Code of Safety to align with the BIS code of safety format
Scope and Limitations
This standard outlines the general properties of hexane, associated hazards, and essential safety practices, including storage, handling, packaging, labelling, waste disposal, container cleaning, personnel training, protective equipment, and first aid measures. It does not cover the design specifications for buildings, chemical plants, storage tanks, or operational equipment.
