Gerstley Borate Rasorite

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

Emergency overview Gerstley Borate is a grey-white, odorless mineral product that is not flammable, combustible or explosive. been tested. Animal ingestion studies in several species, at Potential ecological effects high doses, indicate that similar inorganic borate compounds Unknown cause reproductive and developmental effects. A human study of occupational exposure to borate dust showed no

Potential health effects

adverse effect on reproduction.

Principle Routes of Exposure

Inhalation is the most significant route of Target organs: No target organ has been identified in exposure in occupational and other settings. Dermal exposure humans. Several inorganic borate high dose animal is not usually a concern because Gerstley Borate is not ingestion studies indicate the testes are the target organs in expected to be readily absorbed through intact skin. male animals for similar borate compounds. Inhalation: Occasional mild irritation effects to the nose and Signs and symptoms of exposure: Symptoms of accidental throat may occur from inhalation of borate dusts at levels over-exposure to inorganic borate salts have been greater than 1 O mg/m3. associated with ingestion or absorption through large areas Eye contact: Not tested. of damaged skin. These may include nausea, vomiting and Skin contact: Not tested. diarrhea, with delayed effects of skin redness and peeling. Ingestion: Gerstley Borate is not intended for ingestion. Refer to Section 11 for details on toxicological data. Inorganic borate salts generally have low acute toxicity. Small amounts (e.g. a teaspoon) swallowed accidentally are not likely to cause effects; swallowing amounts larger than that may cause gastrointestinal symptoms.