Lafarge Asphalt Cement (Asphalt)

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

WARNING Hot product can cause burns. Toxic - Harmful by inhalation. Hot Product can release Hydrogen Sulfide gas. Irritant: Causes eye, skin and inhalation irritation. Eye Gloves Use proper engineering controls, work practices, and Protection personal protective equipment. Read MSDS for details. (continued) Emergency Overview: Asphalt is a dark brown to black colored solid or semi-solid material that has a petroleum odor. Hot product will cause severe thermal burns. If burned by hot product, cool affected area immediately with cool water. Do not attempt to remove solidified product from skin. Seek medical attention. When heated, this product may release toxic hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Prolonged or repeated skin contact can cause drying of the skin which may produce irritation or dermatitis.

Potential health effects

Risk of injury depends on duration and level of exposure. Eye Contact: Hot product will cause severe thermal burns. Eye contact with asphalt fumes can cause moderate eye irritation, redness, and itching. Eye exposures require immediate first aid to prevent damage to the eye. Skin Contact: Direct contact with hot asphalt will cause severe thermal burns. Repeated or prolonged contact to asphalt may cause dry skin, discomfort, irritation, and dermatitis. Inhalation: Hot asphalt releases irritating fumes or vapors such as smoke, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and unburned hydrocarbons. Hydrogen sulfide and other sulfur- containing gases can evolve from this product at elevated temperatures. Exposure to fumes or vapors may cause irritation of the nose and throat, and symptoms such as headache, dizziness, loss of coordination, and drowsiness. Hydrogen sulfide and other sulfur-containing gases can evolve from this product at elevated temperatures. Hydrogen sulfide can cause respiratory paralysis and death, depending on concentrations and duration of exposure. Do not rely on ability to smell vapors, since odor fatigue rapidly occurs. Effects of overexposure include irritation of the nose and throat, nausea, vomiting and signs of nervous system depression. Carcinogenicity: Asphalt is not listed as a carcinogen by IARC or NTP. Ingestion: Do not chew or ingest asphalt. Hot product will cause thermal burns. Ingestion may result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and restlessness. Chewing asphalt has caused gastrointestinal effects. Stomach obstructions have been reported in individuals who have chewed and swallowed asphalt.

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure

Individuals with preexisting skin conditions can be aggravated by exposure.