TaoFibre PSTE Expandable Paper

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

Warnings! Dust from this product generated by handling may cause skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritation. Possible cancer hazards depend on duration and level of exposure.

Hazard statements

Hazardous Materials Information System (HMIS) Ratings: Health 1 Flammability 0 Reactivity 0 Personal Protection Index X Possible effects on health: Prolonged and repeated inhalation of aluminosilicate dust may cause chronic effects on respiratory system such as bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema. Signs and symptoms of excessive exposure: Eye contact: Physical irritation Skin contact: Physical irritation Ingestion: Temporary irritation to gastrointestinal tract Inhalation: Pulmonary dysfunction

2.1 Classification of the substance or mixture

Although studies, involving occupationally exposed workers, have not identified any increased incidence of respiratory disease, results from animal testing have been used as the basis for hazard classification. In each of the following cases, the conclusions are qualitative only and do not rest upon any quantitative analysis suggesting that the hazard actually may occur at current occupational exposure levels. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) confirmed in October 2001 that Group 2B (possible human carcinogen based on sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in animals but inadequate evidence in humans) continues to be the appropriate classification for refractory ceramic fiber. The Seventh Annual Report on Carcinogens (1994), prepared by the National Toxicology Program (NTP), classified respirable RCF and glasswool as substances reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens. The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) has classified RCF as “A2- Suspected Human Carcinogen.” The Commission of The European Communities (DG XI) has classified RCF as a substance "that should be regarded as if it is carcinogenic to man." The State of California, pursuant to Proposition 65, The Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, has listed "ceramic fibers (airborne fibers of respirable size)" as a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer. The Canadian Environmental Protection Agency (CEPA) has classified RCF as "probably carcinogenic" (Group 2). The Canadian Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) – RCF is classified as Class D2A - Materials Causing Other Toxic Effects. The Hazardous Materials Identification System (HMIS) – Health 1* Flammability 0 Reactivity 0 Personal Protection Index: X (Employer Determined) (* denotes potential for chronic effects)