Xylene is a clear colorless liquid with distinguishable odor which is insoluble in water. According to the Xylene Msds provided by Ofite.com, Xylene remains stable under everyday conditions of use and storage and has zero reactivity. Xylene has the tendency to render hazardous decomposition, when in contact with fire, Formation of Carbon Monoxide and Unidentified Organic Components is known to take place. The Xylene chemical is incompatible with strong acids and strong oxidizing agents, therefore, use with these chemicals is advised against. The Xylene Msds guarantees that hazardous Polymerization does not occur in this chemical as it is not a part of its set of properties. 

In terms of environmental exposure, the Xylene Msds states that although the chemical maybe toxic to aquatic life, it tends to evaporate to a reasonable extent when in contact with soil.  

It is tremendously important to follow safety procedures and personal protection to ensure minimal exposure to the chemical. The Xylene Msds declares that there should be a system of exhaust in the place where the chemical is being used to guarantee employee exposures will remain below the airborne exposure limits. Inhaling the vapors of Xylene can cause irritation for the nose and throat, high levels of inhalation can lead to nausea, vomiting, headache, breathing difficulties etc. Impervious protective clothing such as gloves, boats and overalls are also recommended to avoid skin contact. Skin contact with Xylene can result in loss of natural oils and Dermatitis. Safety goggles are to be worn strictly as contact with eyes leads to severe irritation, there are also chances of getting possible corneal burns and eye damage. Also, repetitive exposure can prove chronic a it can damage bone marrow, causing low blood cell count. Livers and kidneys may also be damaged if chronic exposure occurs. Therefore, emergency procedures and safety precautions are vital for the lives of the employees. 

It is imperative to be having staff well trained in first aid measures. The Xylene Msds advises that incase of inhalation the person exposed should be taken to outside in fresh air, if they have stopped breathing, artificial respiration should be provided. If the skin is exposed or comes in contact with the chemical then the skin should be flushed with water for about 15 minutes and any contaminated clothing must be removed immediately. If eyes are exposed then they should be washed with water for 15 minutes, if irritation persists then a physician should be called. If too much ingestion is feared then medical help should be provided instantaneously and large quantities of water should be taken.

 
To ensure exceptional handling and storage conditions the Xylene Msds suggests that the chemical is stored in a tightly closed container and should be stored in a waterless, cool and ventilated place. The place where the chemical is being stored should not be smoked in and the containers should not be welded, pressurized or drilled. If all the emergency measures and safety precautions are taken as directed by the Xylene Msds, then there should be no problem regarding safety of the chemical and the people around it.