ASPHALT

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

1272/2008 NOT classified as dangerous in accordance with Directive 67/548/EEC or EC 1272/2008. The main hazards presented by Asphalt relate to the temperature of the material. The following hazards may apply: - Hot materials may burn the skin. - Fumes from Asphalt are unlikely to be hazardous when laid in open air situations, but there may be a risk to health by continuous inhalation of high vapour concentrations which might arise in poorly ventilated, confined or semi-confined spaces. - Asphalt is not a dusty material, but respirable dust may be released by cutting, drilling or planing hardened asphalt. If inhaled in excessive quantities over a prolonged period or extended period, respirable dust can constitute a long term health hazard. Dusts containing Respirable Crystalline Silica* (quartz) present a greater hazard. Long-term exposure to respirable dust can lead to respiratory system damage and disease. Respirable crystalline silica* has been associated with the lung disease silicosis. The quartz content of the product will vary, and is related to the type of aggregate used in the production of the asphalt. Advice on the quartz content and other chemical information is available from the supplying unit. *Any references to respirable silica only apply if hardened asphalt is cut, drilled, milled or planed.