Safety & Handling Guidance

General guidance for handling cosmetic-grade Polysorbate 20, 60 and 80. This page is a summary only — the safety data sheet supplied with your consignment is the authoritative source.

Always read the SDS first. Current safety data sheets for each grade are available in the SDS library. Where this page and the SDS differ, the SDS takes precedence.

General character

Polysorbates are non-ionic surfactants supplied as viscous liquids. They are not classified as hazardous under GB CLP in their supplied form, but they are slippery, readily form foams, and should be treated with the care appropriate to any industrial raw material.

Storage

Keep containers tightly closed, upright and clearly labelled.
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heat sources and strong oxidising agents.
Polysorbate 60 may thicken or solidify at low temperatures; allow gentle, controlled warming and homogenise before use rather than applying localised heat.
Observe the shelf life and re-test date shown on the certificate of analysis.
Provide secondary containment for drum and IBC storage areas.

Handling and PPE

Avoid contact with eyes; avoid prolonged or repeated skin contact.
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety glasses or goggles, and suitable protective clothing. Use additional protection where splashing or aerosol generation is possible.
Use in a well-ventilated area; avoid generating mists.
Do not eat, drink or smoke in handling areas; wash hands after use.
Move 200 kg drums and 1,000 L IBCs with appropriate mechanical handling equipment and trained operators.

Spillage

Spilled material is extremely slippery — isolate and sign the area immediately to prevent slip injuries.
Contain the spill and absorb with inert material (sand, vermiculite or a proprietary absorbent); collect into a labelled container for disposal.
Do not allow product to enter drains, surface water or watercourses.
Wash the residue area thoroughly; expect surfaces to remain slippery until dry.

Fire

Polysorbates are combustible at elevated temperatures. Suitable extinguishing media are dry chemical, carbon dioxide, alcohol-resistant foam or water spray. Do not use a direct water jet. Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus.

First aid

Eyes: rinse cautiously with water for several minutes, removing contact lenses if easy to do. Seek medical advice if irritation persists.
Skin: wash with soap and water. Seek advice if irritation develops.
Inhalation: move the person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
Ingestion: rinse mouth, do not induce vomiting, and seek medical advice.

Disposal

Dispose of surplus product, contaminated absorbents and uncleaned containers through a licensed waste contractor in accordance with UK waste regulations and local authority requirements. Do not discharge to drain.

Your responsibilities

This guidance does not replace your own COSHH assessment. Employers remain responsible for assessing risk in the context of their own processes, providing training, and ensuring safe systems of work. For questions about a specific grade or consignment, contact us at linosa@linosaltd.co.uk or +44 (0) 1923 842304.