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2-Butanone, oxime
(Butanone oxime)

CAS Registry Number 96-29-7

What is it?

• 2-Butanone oxime is an industrial chemical, which may also be found in certain consumer products such as alkyd paints.  

How is it used?

• 2-Butanone oxime is used primarily as an anti-skinning agent in the formulation of alkyd paints, varnishes, stains and coatings.
• Other uses in Canada include as a formulant (non-active component) in some pesticides, namely wood preservatives and antifouling marine paints, as well as in some adhesives, silicon sealants and printing inks.
• It is also used as a corrosion inhibitor in industrial boilers and water treatment systems, and as a blocking agent in the manufacturing process of urethane polymers.
• 2-Butanone oxime is not manufactured in Canada, but is imported into Canada.

Why did the Government of Canada assess it?

• Prior to the assessment, 2-butanone oxime was identified as a potential concern for human health based on its classification by international organizations as a substance which may cause cancer in laboratory animals, and based on a high potential for exposure (not including workplace exposures) to the general population of Canada.

How are Canadians exposed to it?

• The general population of Canada may be exposed to 2-butanone oxime principally during the use of alkyd paints.

What are the results of the assessment?

• The Government of Canada has conducted a science-based evaluation of 2-butanone oxime, called a screening assessment.
• The Government of Canada has concluded that 2-butanone oxime may be harmful to human health.
• The Government of Canada has also concluded that 2-butanone oxime is not entering the environment in a quantity or under conditions that constitute a danger to the environment.
• Screening assessments address potential for harm to the general population (not including workplace exposures).

What Is the Government of Canada Doing?

• The Government of Canada is proposing to set concentration limits on 2-butanone Oxime for indoor consumer alkyd paints.
• The Government of Canada also intends to propose adding 2-butanone oxime to the Environmental Emergency Regulations of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 due to its high-volume use, so that emergency preparedness and response requirements are put in place.
• The final screening assessment and the proposed risk management approach documents were published on March 6, 2010. The publication of the proposed risk management approach document will be followed by a 60-day comment period, ending May 5, 2010.

What can Canadians do?

• The health risks associated with a chemical depend on the hazard (its potential to cause health effects) and the dose (the amount of chemical to which you are exposed).
• As a general precaution, Canadians are reminded to carefully follow any safety warnings and directions when using products containing 2-butanone oxime.
• Canadians who handle 2-butanone oxime in the workplace should consult with their occupational health and safety representative about safe handling practices, applicable laws and requirements under the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System.