Biohazards of methanol in proposed new uses

In the past few years methanol has been proposed for use as an energy source in the place of potentially more scarce natural products. It was also proposed for use as a bacterial feedstock for production of feed protein and the denitrification of waste water. Methanol has a variety of biohazards for the human, most of which have been recognized since the early part of the century. These are discussed in eight categories: hazard at young ages; of potential interactions of several types; abuse; delayed and irreversible toxicity; Inhalation and dermal hazard, as well as that due to oral exposure; toxicity of formaldehyde, its product of incomplete combustion; nearly invisible flame; and a larger storage space requirement than for an equivalent energy yield from gasoline. It is proposed that where a safer compound is available, methanol should not be utilized. However, some of the conditions for reducing the human hazard to methanol are presented. These must be taken seriously and without delay because of the proposals for large‐scale use, some in rather general environmental situations.