BTR-1110

Principle Routes of Exposure

Inhalation, eye and skin contact. Target of Organs: Eyes; Respiratory System; Skin: Inhalation: ACUTE EXPOSURE: MDI vapor or mist at concentrations above the TLV can irritate (burning sensation) the mucous membranes in the respiratory tract (nose, throat, lungs) causing runny nose, sore throat, coughing, chest discomfort, shortness of breath and reduced lung function (breathing obstruction). Individuals with a pre-existing, non-specific bronchial hyper-reactivity can respond to the concentrations below the TLV with similar symptoms as well as 1 asthma attack. Exposure well above the TLV may lead to bronchitis, bronchial spasm and pulmonary edema (fluid in lungs). These effects are usually reversible. Chemical or hypersensitive pneumonitis, with flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, chills) has also been reported. These symptoms can be delayed up to several hours after exposure. CHRONIC EXPOSURE: As a result of previous repeated overexposures or a single large dose, certain individuals develop isocyanate sensitization (chemical asthma) which will cause them to react to a later isocyanate exposure at levels well below the TLV. These symptoms, which can include chest tightness, wheezing, cough, shortness of breath or asthma attack, could be immediate or delayed (up to several hours after exposure). Similar to many non-specific asthmatic responses, there are reports that once sensitized, an individual can experience these symptoms upon exposure to dust, cold air or other irritants. This increased lung sensitity can persist for weeks and in severe cases for several years. Overexposure to isocyanates has also been reported to cause lung damage (including decrease in lung function) which may be permanent. Sensitatization can either be temporary or permanent. Skin Contact: Acute Exposure: Isocyanates react with skin protein and moisture and can cause irritation which may include the following symptoms: reddening, swelling, rash, scaling or blistering. Cured material is difficult to remove. Chronic Exposure: Prolonged contact can cause reddening, swelling, rash, scaling blistering, and is come cases, skin sensitization. Individuals who have developed a skin sensitization can develop these symptoms as a result of contact with very small amounts of liquid material or as a result of exposure to vapor. Eye Contact: ACUTE EXPOSURE: Liquids, aerosols or vapors are irritating and can cause tearing, reddening, and swelling. If left untreated, corneal damage can occur and injury is slow to heal. However, damage is usually reversible. CHRONIC EXPOSURE: None Found Ingestion: ACUTE EXPOSURE: Can result in irritation and corrosive action in the mouth, stomach tissue and digestive tract. Symptoms can include sore throat, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. CHRONIC EPXOSURE: None found