When you see "acute" on an MSDS, does it mean the symptom will be intense (as in acute pain)? If you see "chronic" does it mean something akin to a chronic cough?
The answer to both questions is no. These words are used in relation to when the affect appears in relation to the exposure time or to the elapsed time since exposure.
If the MSDS or label says a solvent will produce acute stinging in the eyes if ventilation is not adequate, it means you'll notice that stinging right away. It doesn't mean you can "get by with" not ventilating more if you can tolerate some stinging.
Many chemicals don't produce an immediately noticeable effect. For example, say you're working with a solvent and you feel fine even without the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE). Nevertheless, the MSDS warns of chronic exposure. You may just have put a ticking time bomb in your body.
Don't be fooled by "I feel fine."
