Benzylalkohol [MAK Value Documentation in German language, 2017]

Abstract

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated benzyl alcohol [ 100‐51‐6 ] to derive a maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value), considering all toxicity endpoints. Available study reports and publications are described in detail. Benzyl alcohol is irritating to the eyes and the airways. In a 4‐week inhalation study in rats, microscopic lesions in the airways, especially in the lung, occurred at 1072 mg/m 3 . The NAEC is estimated to be 300 mg/m 3 , a concentration at which benzyl alcohol can occur as vapour, corresponding to 67 ml/m 3 . A MAK value of 5 ml/m 3 has been derived. As local effects are critical, benzyl alcohol is classified in Peak Limitation Category I with an excursion factor of 2. In developmental toxicity studies with benzyl alcohol in mice, foetotoxic effects occurred at 750 mg/kg body weight and day in the presence of marked maternal toxicity. The NOAEL was 550 mg/kg body weight and day; however, teratogenicity was not examined. Benzoic acid is the main metabolite of benzyl alcohol. Considering the developmental toxicity studies with sodium benzoate, the differences between the NOAEL for rats, mice, rabbits and hamsters scaled to an inhalation concentration at the workplace and the MAK value are considered so large that damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely when the MAK value is observed. Therefore, benzyl alcohol is classified in Pregnancy Risk Group C. Benzyl alcohol is not regarded to be genotoxic or carcinogenic. Sensitization is not expected as benzyl alcohol was not a contact sensitizer in a local lymph node assay and there were no conclusive positive clinical findings of sensitizing effects on the skin. Skin contact is expected to contribute significantly to the systemic toxicity. Therefore, benzyl alcohol is designated with an “H”.