These paragraphs are quotes from EPA and CDC information pages on Corexit, the dispersant that BP is using in the Gulf Oil spill.
COREXIT EC9527A contains between 30-60% of 2-butoxyethanol (solvent) and COREXIT 9500 contains between 10-30% of petroleum distillates (solvent).
The following acute (short-term) health effects may occur immediately or shortly after exposure to 2-Butoxy Ethanol:
Contact can irritate the skin and eyes with possible eye damage.
Inhaling 2-Butoxy Ethanol can irritate the nose and throat causing coughing and wheezing.
2-Butoxy Ethanol can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Exposure can cause headache, dizziness, confusion, lightheadedness, and passing out.
Chronic Health Effects
The following chronic (long-term) health effects can occur at
some time after exposure to 2-Butoxy Ethanol and can last
for months or years:
CANCER HAZARD
2-Butoxy Ethanol may be a CARCINOGEN in humans since it has been shown to cause liver cancer in animals.
Many scientists believe there is no safe level of exposure to a carcinogen.
Reproductive Hazard
2-Butoxy Ethanol may damage the developing fetus.
There is limited evidence that 2-Butoxy Ethanol may damage the male reproductive system (including decreasing
the sperm count) in animals and may affect female fertility in animals.
Other Effects
2-Butoxy Ethanol may damage the liver and kidneys.
Medical Testing
For frequent or potentially high exposure (half the TLV or greater), the following are recommended before beginning work and at regular times after that:
Liver and kidney function tests
Any evaluation should include a careful history of past and present symptoms with an exam. Medical tests that look for damage already done are not a substitute for controlling
exposure.
Request copies of your medical testing. You have a legal right to this information under the OSHA Access to Employee
Exposure and Medical Records Standard (29 CFR 1910.1020).
Mixed Exposures
More than light alcohol consumption can cause liver damage. Drinking alcohol may increase the liver damage
caused by 2-Butoxy Ethanol.