Graphite Mix

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

If the graphite mix is allowed to dry out there is the potential for the release of the associated dust and fibre content; these are mechanical irritants to the skin and eyes and irritant to the upper respiratory system if inhaled.  The fibres will include man made vitreous silicate (mineral wool) fibres, Superwool® fibres, glass-fibres and cellulose fibres; the dusts will include graphite, china clay, starch and Aluminium tri-hydroxide.  As with any airborne dust or fibres pre-existing upper respiratory and lung diseases may be aggravated.  High concentrations of airborne graphite or starch dust may represent an explosion risk.  Airborne graphite dust may result in shorts and malfunction of electrical equipment  Spilt graphite may result in underfoot slip hazards for personnel and potential grip problems for fork lift trucks and other vehicles.