Broco Underwater Ultrathermic (Exothermic) Cutting Rods

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

OSHA Hazards This section covers the materials from which this product is manufactured. The term “hazardous” in “Hazardous Materials” should be interpreted as a term required and defined in OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR Part 1910.1200).

Hazard statements

Solid metallic products are generally classified as "articles" and do not constitute hazardous materials in solid form under the definitions of the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). 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. Broco Underwater Ultrathermic Cutting Rods consist of an electrical insulating tape wrapped copper flashed steel alloy tube containing alloy wires arranged circularly around the inner perimeter. For underwater use only as supplied. Do not burn in air without first removing insulating tape. Burning PVC electrical tape emits noxious fumes that can include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen chloride, formaldehyde, irritant vapors or gases, oxides of antimony, and oxides of zinc. When the cutting rods are consumed in the normal course of work using an exothermic torch (oxygen lance) airborne metal fumes are produced that include: TLV PEL Mg/M3 Copper Fume 0.2 0.1 Iron Oxide Fume 5.0 Lead Fume 0.05 0.03 Manganese Fume 0.1 5.0 Nickel Fume 0.015 1.0 Fumes from the material being cut (*Know the target material and the possible by-products). ingestion, by inhalation and through the skin. Lead may damage kidney function, the blood forming system and the reproductive system. Inorganic lead compounds can cause developmental damage.

2.1 Classification of the substance or mixture

Inert, non-hazardous as supplied.

Precautionary statements

BURNING PRIME CUT ULTRATHERMIC CUTTING RODS CAUSES FUMES TO BE RELEASED. MAY BE HARMFUL IF INHALED. MAY IRRITATE THE EYES, SKIN, AND RESPIRATORY TRACT. MOLTEN MATERIAL MAY CAUSE THERMAL BURNS. Page | 1 Section 2: Hazard(s) Identification (continued) BURNING PRIME CUT ULTRATHERMIC CUTTING RODS CAUSES FUMES TO BE RELEASED. MAY BE HARMFUL IF INHALED. MAY IRRITATE THE EYES, SKIN, AND RESPIRATORY TRACT. MOLTEN MATERIAL MAY CAUSE THERMAL BURNS. When used as intended underwater in conjunction with an electric arc from a welding power source, intense heat, ultra-violet (UV) rays, fumes and gases are generated. When used as intended for underwater cutting, exposure to UV rays and electric shock possibility are the greatest sources of risk to health of the operator. Fumes and gases may be trapped in bubbles and rise to the water’s surface where they are released into the atmosphere. Personnel at the surface must take precautions to ensure the area is adequately ventilated and to wear appropriate respiratory equipment when necessary. Elevated temperature processing (such as burning and cutting) may release hazardous fumes. Overexposure to metal fumes may cause pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) and methemaglobinemia. May also cause pulmonary fibrosis and lung cancer. Lead compounds may be absorbed by ingestion, by inhalation and through the skin. Lead may damage kidney function, the blood forming system and the reproductive system. Inorganic lead compounds can cause developmental damage. Sparks and fumes from burning metal are produced when operating an exothermic torch. Inhalation of fumes may cause metal-fume fever. Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention In case of insufficient ventilation, wear suitable respiratory equipment Avoid surrounding combustibles (Burning cutting rod generates sparks) Sparks, splatter and molten material generated by this process can cause fire, severe property damage, and bodily injury. Arc rays (UV) and splatter can injure eyes and exposed skin. Always wear proper eye protection with appropriate shade filter. Exposure to UV radiation from a cutting arc can result in keratoconjunctivitis (welders flash). Symptoms include inflammation, blurred vision and headache. Seek medical attention, preferably an eye specialist. Coatings and residue may irritate skin and eyes. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure

Allergies, skin disorders, respiratory disorders, central nervous system, pre-existing eye disorders, blood disorders, kidney disorders, liver disorders, nasal cavities, and lungs. Page | 2