Stainless Steels

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

OSHA Hazards Solid stainless steel products, various forms and uses: Coils, plates, sheets, strips, bars, tubes, semi-finished products and structural shapes.

Hazard statements

Solid metallic products are generally classified as “ARTICLES” and do not constitute a hazardous materials in solid form under the definitions of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard. Any articles manufactured from these solid products would be generally classified as non-hazardous. However, some hazardous elements contained in these products can be emitted under certain processing conditions such as but not limited to: burning, melting, cutting, sawing, brazing, grinding, machining, milling, and welding. EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Effects of Over-exposure: Unless heated or processed in a manner that generates dust or fumes, normal handling of these products will not result in hazardous exposures. SHORT-TERM (Acute) OVEREXPOSURE to dust generated from stainless steel use and processing may produce irritation of the eyes and respiratory system. Inhalation of high concentrations of freshly-formed oxide fumes of iron may cause fever, characterized by a metallic taste in the mouth, dryness and irritation of the throat, eyes and nose. LONG-TERM (Chronic) OVEREXPOSURE to dust or fumes, e.g. welding, cutting, or grinding, can lead to siderosis (iron deposits in lungs), central nervous system, liver or kidney damage, skin and respiratory sensitization (allergic reaction), and is believed by some investigators to affect pulmonary function. Stainless Steels do not cause nickel sensitization in humans, however, in individuals already sensitized to nickel, prolonged skin contact may result in an allergic reaction. 20AP grade contains a small amount of lead. Prolonged overexposure to lead dust and fumes may result in lead poisoning with damage to the nervous system, kidneys, reproductive system and the unborn child.

Principle Routes of Exposure

is the respiratory system

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure

Pre-existing eye, respiratory or allergic conditions. CARCINOGENICITY: Certain hexavalent chromium compounds and nickel metal and compounds are listed in the National Toxicology Program (NTP) Annual Report on Carcinogens, found to be a potential carcinogen in the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) Monographs, or listed by OSHA/ACGIH (Occupational Safety and Health Administration/American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists) as potential carcinogens.