Compost and starter ingredients for Compost Teas

2.1 Classification of the substance or mixture

Compost bio aerosols are a substance hazardous to health as defined by the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) 2002 (as amended). Although they have no occupational exposure limits, they are potential respiratory sensitisers. Classification of substance/mixture according to Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 This solid does not meet the criteria for classification in accordance to the regulation

Physical hazards

Not classified for physical hazards

Health hazards

Eye irritation Category 2 Irritant to respiratory system (long term) Category 1 Skin irritant Category 2 Hazard summary: Avoid contact with the eyes. Avoid hand and eye contact. Long term use can irritate the skin. Use protective gloves and overalls if regularly handling product. Overalls need washing at a high temperature before reuse. Wash hands and forearms before doing anything else. Dermatitis can be caused by poor handling practices. Advise up to date tetanus. Short and long term use can affect the respiratory system. It can: aggravate pre-existing conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis; aggravate pre-existing conditions if you have weakened immune system or damaged lungs. Repeated inhalation of compost bio aerosols in large concentrations has been shown to trigger the immune system, and can lead to developing asthma or extrinsic allergic alveolitis (similar to farmer’s lung disease)/aspergillosis. Do not breathe in dust. Prevent dust from getting into the air. If insufficient ventilation, wear respiratory equipment.

Environmental hazards

None Specific hazards: In the compost manufacture, micro-organisms (fungal/mould spores such as the fungus Aspergillus fumigatus and certain types of bacteria called actinomycetes) are encouraged to grow to break down waste material, resulting in very large numbers of these micro-organisms being present. Any handling of the material that generates dust will create a bio aerosol (micro-organisms made airborne). Main symptoms: Coughing, dryness in throat. Watery or swollen eyes. Dry and itchy skin.

2.2 Label elements

Label according to Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008

Contains

Natural organic material

Signal word

Warning

Hazard statements

Respiratory, skin and eye irritant

Precautionary statements

For regular use, use in well ventilated area. If user has pre-existing condition such as asthma, wear a mask. Wash hands and clothes thoroughly after use. Avoid contact with the eyes.

2.3 Other hazards

Not a PBT or vPvB substance or mixture