Limestone

2.1 Classification of the substance or mixture

Acute Effects: Dust associated with the handling of PVC powder as well as vapors liberated from PVC compound at high temperatures may be irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract if not adequately ventilated.

Potential chronic health

Chronic exposure to vapors heated or thermally decomposed plastics may cause an asthma-like syndrome due to the inhalation of processing vapors or fumes. The onset of irritation may be delayed for several hours. Vapors may accumulate within the facility during normal operating procedures that involve elevated temperatures. Exposure to these elevated concentrations, if not adequately ventilated, may have significant health effects. Carcinogenic: IARC has determined that there is inadequate evidence of carcinogenetic of a polyvinyl chloride in both animals and humans. The overall evaluation of polyvinyl chloride is Group 3, meaning that it is not classifiable as a carcinogen (IARC Vol. 19, 1979). Polyvinyl chloride is not listed as a carcinogen by OSHA, NIOSH, NTP, IARC or EPA. Some additives used to make PVC compound may contain metals, which in some chemical forms are suspended or confirmed carcinogens. These metals, if present, are bound in the crystalline structure of the additive, and to the supplier’s best knowledge, do not present a significant health risk. Additionally, the low levels of additives used in PVC compounds are also bound in the polymer matrix and to the best of the supplier’s knowledge, do not present a significant health risk.