Cobalt Based Alloys

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

Hazard statements

R40: Possible risk of irreversible effects R42/43 May cause sensitization by inhalation and skin contact. R53 May cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment

Precautionary statements

S2 Keep out of the reach of children. S22 Do not breathe dust. S24 Avoid contact with skin. S36 Wear suitable protective clothing. S37 Wear suitable gloves. S61 Avoid release to the environment. Refer to special instructions/Safety data sheets. Solid Form As supplied in the solid form, the material presents a minimal hazard. Take care when handling as bars/ingots can be quite heavy. Cobalt base alloyed ingots are not ignitable, corrosive, or reactive. Dust and powders are a moderate fire and explosive hazard when exposed to heat, flame, electric current, or static electricity. For purposes of the MSDS, occupational exposure to alloys is taken to mean dusts, fumes, or solutions containing metals that can become airborne or can spill on the skin or in the eye. Occupational exposure to alloys does not include solid products (i.e., ingots or castings) provided no particle generating operations such as grinding or cutting occur. In most industrial situations, the significant routes of exposure would include inhalation, skin and eye contact. Dusts and fumes containing nickel, chromium, cobalt, and other metals can be toxic if the PEL or TLV safety guidelines are exceeded. Sensitive individuals may develop allergic asthma. Use local ventilation and/or respiratory equipment to limit exposure to airborne dusts. Molten Form The product is intended to be melted and cast into finished products. Care should be taken to avoid exposure to product fumes from melting and casting. The molten material can cause severe thermal burns if it contacts the eyes and skin. Exposure to moisture while metal is in it’s molten state can cause a violent reaction.

Potential health effects

Inhalation Inhalation of solid product dust may lead to respiratory irritation. Inhalation of fumes from molten product can cause respiratory tract irritation, sore throats, dizziness, headache and nausea. Skin Contact May cause irritation in sensitized individuals. Molten product can burn the skin. Ingestion Not believed to be toxic. Eyes In a finely divided form, i.e. dust or fragments, the product will act as a physical irritant to the eye. Molten product will cause burns to the eye. Fumes from the molten product may irritate the eye. Chronic / Other Effects Nickel, chromium and cobalt are listed by the National Toxicology Program, International Agency for Research on Cancer, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health; or the California Safety and Health Administration as potential cancer hazards in certain chemical forms. Hexavalent chrome (CrVI) is expected to evolve only when a significant energy source, such as a welding arc, is applied. Melting, grinding, or other surface processing is not expected to result in CrVI. Component