Methyl acetate is an organic compound with the molecular formula C3H6O2. It appears as a colorless liquid. It is often used in organic synthesis as an important esterification reagent and solvent, and is widely used in the preparation of spices, resins, coatings, plastics and other industrial fields.

According to the United Nations' "Hazard Classification and Labeling System of Chemicals" (GHS) standards, methyl acetate is classified as a third category of dangerous goods, that is, flammable liquids, and also a sixth category of dangerous goods, that is, acutely toxic substances.

1. Flammable liquid: Methyl acetate has high volatility and can easily form flammable vapor in the air. It can easily cause explosion or fire when exposed to fire sources or high temperatures. Its vapor and air can form an explosive mixture, which can cause combustion and explosion when exposed to open flames or high heat. Methyl acetate reacts violently when in contact with oxidizing agents. Its vapor is heavier than air and can spread to a considerable distance from a lower place. It will ignite and backfire when encountering a fire source. Secondly, the viscosity of its liquids is generally very small. Not only is it easy to flow, but also due to penetration, infiltration and capillary phenomena, flammable liquids will seep out of the container wall even if there are only tiny cracks in the container. It is easy to evaporate after leakage, and the flammable vapor formed is heavier than air and can accumulate in potholes, thereby increasing the risk of combustion and explosion.

2. Acute toxic substances: Methyl acetate is irritating to the respiratory system and eyes, and it can penetrate into the body after contact with the skin, causing damage to the central nervous system and digestive system.

To avoid the dangers of methyl acetate, we need to take some safety precautions:

1. Storage safety: When storing methyl acetate, it needs to be isolated from oxygen, kept away from fire sources and high temperatures, and the storage container must be intact. They should be stored separately from oxidants, acids, and alkalis, and avoid mixed storage.

2. Safety in use: When using methyl acetate, appropriate protective equipment should be worn, such as gloves, goggles and masks. At the same time, ventilation needs to be strengthened to prevent steam accumulation and leakage.

3. Safety in waste disposal: Methyl acetate waste should be properly disposed of to avoid leakage causing damage to the environment and human body.