Methyl formate is irritating to the mucous membranes and has a slight narootic action. Symptoms which have been observed in experimental animals include: irritation of eyes and nose, retching, incoordination, narcosis, tremors, and death. Examination of animals revealed primarily an inflammation of the lungs with some congestion of other organs. A concentration of 0.15% has a pleasant, readily apparent odor. This, however, cannot be relied upon as a warning because of olfactory fatigue. No reports were found of cases of poisoning in man.