Heavy Mineral Concentrate

Potential health effects

Acute Typical product particle size is greater than the 10 micron respirable dust limit. It should be regarded as Inhalation nuisance dust, and can be irritating if inhaled at high concentrations. May cause symptoms such as coughing or sneezing. Australian regulations nominate TLV (TWA) 10 mg/m3 as total dust, and 5 mg/m3 as respirable dust. This product is considered non-toxic and there are no known hazards caused by accidental ingestion of Ingestion small amounts as might occur during normal handling. Ingestion of larger quantities might cause irritation of the gastro-intestinal system due to abrasive action. 2 of 5 Document Owner EHS Manager Eye Particles or dust are a moderate eye irritant due to abrasive action. Chronic (Prolonged long-term exposure may result in these possible health hazards) This HMC product contains low concentrations of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) of the uranium and thorium series. Typical activity concentrations are about 3 Bq/gm (thorium-232) and 2 Bq/gm (uranium-238). Daughter products are present at equilibrium concentrations. Low level external Radiation gamma radiation dose can be received from very extended times spent on or next to bulk product stockpiles. For example continuous exposure (2000 hours per year) within 2 metres of a bulk HMC product stockpile could give rise to an annual external dose above 1 millisievert (the annual dose limit for a member of public). There is also a minor potential for internal dose from inhaled dust. However, the mineral grains are generally too dense and large to remain airborne.