AOC2000

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

/ INFORMATION

Health hazards

Ingestion Eyes Skin Inhalation Chronic ACUTE Can cause kidney damage (due to the borate). May be toxic if swallowed. Can cause moderate irritation Can cause moderate irritation. Sodium mercaptobenzothiazole may be a skin sensitizer Mist or spray may cause irritation of respiratory tract and mucous membranes. Chronic toxicity studies have not been conducted for this product. Repeated or prolonged skin contact may cause allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. Sodium nitrite (a minor component) has shown reproductive effects in the offspring of the treated parents in experimental animal studies. These effects are non-transmissible. Bacterial assay mutation studies have been positive. Tumorigenic data is equivocal. Sodium nitrite has shown a potential for carcinogenicity in animals. See also section 7 for toxicity data. FIRST AID MEASURES Ingestion If swallowed, and if more than 15 minutes from a hospital, induce vomiting, preferably using Ipecac Syrup APF. Contact a doctor or the Poisons Information Centre. If unconscious, having trouble breathing or in convulsions, do not induce vomiting or give water. Eye Contact Immediately flush eyes with large amounts of water for at least fifteen (15) minutes. Seek medical attention. Skin Contact Remove contaminated clothing. Wash skin well with water and finally with soap and water. If irritation persists call a physician. Launder contaminated clothing before reuse. Inhalation Remove to fresh air. Treat symptoms. Call a physician. As with any chemical, ingestion, inhalation and prolonged or repeated skin contact should be avoided by good occupational work practice. First Aid Facilities Advice to Doctor The availability of an eye wash and safety shower is recommended. No specific antidote is known. Sodium nitrite (a minor component 5% w/w) causes formation of methaemoglobinaemia leading to cyanosis and possible death if ingested. Repeated ingestion of small amounts causes blood pressure to drop, rapid pulse, headaches, visual disturbances. Causes central nervous system effects (eg. Headaches, tremors, drowsiness and convulsions). Based on the individual reactions of the patient, the doctor’s judgement should be used to control symptoms and clinical condition. Pregnant women are particularly sensitive to methaemoglobinaemia. 5. PRECAUTIONS FOR USE Exposure Standards Not established for the product. The following components have been assigned an exposure standard by Worksafe Australia (Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the Occupational Environment, October 1991). Sodium hydroxide (peak limitation) = 2mg/cubic m. Sodium tetraborate pentahydrate = 1mg/cubic m. Engineering Controls General ventilation is recommended. Personal Protection Use impermeable gloves and chemical splash goggles. Respiratory protection not normally needed, but avoid inhalation of mists or spray. For large spills, entry into large tanks, vessels or enclosed small spaces with inadequate ventilation, a supplied air breather or a pressure demand, self contained breathing apparatus is recommended.