Health monitoring for methyl isobutyl ketone

This guide helps doctors monitor the health of workers exposed to methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK).  

MIBK (CAS 108-10-1) is a colourless, flammable liquid with a sweet smell that is moderately soluble in water.  

We use MIBK in making paints, rubbers, pharmaceuticals, cleaners and in the semiconductor industry. It dissolves resins and surface coatings. 

We use MIBK in mining rare metals and as: 

• a solvent for gums, resins, paints, varnishes, lacquers and nitrocellulose 

• an alcohol denaturant 

• a synthetic flavouring adjuvant 

• a viscosity adjuster 

• a solvent to synthesise and purify drugs. 

This guide is part of a health monitoring guide collection. 

There are also health monitoring guides for: 

• persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) 

• guide for workers 

• registered medical practitioners 

• hazardous chemicals