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Methane safety data

GHS hazards, precautions, first aid, handling and transport for Methane. A classification summary, not a safety data sheet.
CAS 74-82-8Formula CH4

GHS classification summary, not a safety data sheet (SDS). Classifications can differ by supplier, grade and concentration. Always check the supplier's SDS.

GHS classification

Pictograms, signal word and hazard classes of the GHS classification

GHS02: Flammable
Flammable
GHS04: Gas under pressure
Gas under pressure
Signal word
Danger
420
NFPA 704 rating
health, fire, reactivity

Hazard classes and categories

  • Flam. Gas 1

Hazard statements

H codes grouped by type. Percentages show the share of classification notifications that report the statement

Physical hazards

  • H220Extremely flammable gas.

Precautionary statements

P codes for prevention, response, storage and disposal

Prevention

  • P203Obtain, read and follow all safety instructions before use.
  • P210Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
  • P222Do not allow contact with air.
  • P280Wear protective gloves, protective clothing, eye protection and face protection.

Response

  • P377Leaking gas fire: do not extinguish, unless leak can be stopped safely.
  • P381In case of leakage, eliminate all ignition sources.

Storage

  • P403Store in a well-ventilated place.

First aid

General first aid measures. Get medical advice if you feel unwell

If inhaled
IMMEDIATELY leave the contaminated area, take deep breaths of fresh air. If symptoms (such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or burning in the mouth, throat, or chest) develop, call a physician and be prepared to transport the victim to a hospital. Provide proper respiratory protection to rescuers entering an unknown atmosphere. Whenever possible, Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) should be used, if not available, use a level of protection greater than or equal to that advised under Protective Clothing.
Skin contact
CAUTION: Exposure of skin to compressed gases may result in freezing of the skin. Treatment for frostbite may be necessary. Remove the victim from the source of contamination. IMMEDIATELY wash affected areas gently with COLD water (and soap, if necessary) while removing and isolating all contaminated clothing. Dry carefully with clean, soft towels. If symptoms such as inflammation or irritation develop, IMMEDIATELY call a physician or go to a hospital for treatment.
Eye contact
First check the victim for contact lenses and remove if present. Flush victim's eyes with water or normal saline solution for 20 to 30 minutes while simultaneously calling a hospital or poison control center. Do not put any ointments, oils, or medication in the victim's eyes without specific instructions from a physician. IMMEDIATELY transport the victim after flushing eyes to a hospital even if no symptoms (such as redness or irritation) develop.
If swallowed
This compound is a gas, therefore inhalation is the first route of exposure.

Handling, storage and disposal

Summaries only, follow the supplier SDS for your grade

Safe handling

Fire: NO open flames, NO sparks and NO smoking. Closed system, ventilation, explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting. Use non-sparking handtools.

Inhalation: Use ventilation. Use breathing protection.

Skin: Cold-insulating gloves.

Eyes: Wear safety goggles.

Storage

Fireproof. Cool. Ventilation along the floor and ceiling.

Disposal

Offer surplus and non-recyclable solutions to a licensed disposal company. Contact a licensed professional waste disposal service to dispose of this material.

Exposure limits and toxicity

Occupational exposure limits and toxicity data

Short-term exposure: Rapid evaporation of the liquid may cause frostbite.

Transport information

UN dangerous goods classification for road, sea and air

UN number
UN 1971
Transport hazard class
2.1

Shipping rules depend on mode, quantity and packaging. Confirm the classification with the supplier SDS and your freight forwarder.

Supplier safety data sheets

SDS documents uploaded by suppliers who list this chemical

No supplier has uploaded an SDS for Methane yet. Suppliers usually send one with their quote. Request quotes

Safety questions

Quick answers about handling Methane safely

Is Methane hazardous?

Methane carries the GHS signal word "Danger". Main hazards: extremely flammable gas. This summary is not an SDS, always read the supplier safety data sheet.

Which GHS pictograms apply to Methane?

The GHS classification of Methane shows 2 pictograms: GHS02 (flammable), GHS04 (gas under pressure).

What is the UN number of Methane?

Methane is transported under UN 1971, hazard class 2.1. Check the supplier SDS and the current ADR, IMDG or IATA rules before shipping.

How should Methane be stored?

Fireproof. Cool. Ventilation along the floor and ceiling.

Where can I get the SDS for Methane?

Ask the supplier for the safety data sheet of the exact grade you buy. Suppliers on CompoundList can attach their SDS to listings and send it with a quote. This page is a GHS classification summary, not an SDS.

GHS classification summary, not an SDS. Always check the supplier's SDS. Last updated 7 Oct 2026. Report an error

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