COPPER WELDING ALLOYS

Hazard categories

None required

Hazard statements

may be harmful, if inhaled EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: The solid alloy presents no significant health hazard. Processing of the alloy (e.g., grinding, heating, welding) may result in airborne metal particulates or fumes. Dusts can form explosive mixtures in air. Molten metal may react violently with water. Keep away from strong acids, bases, gases, oxidizers, mercury, ammonia and acetylene.

Potential health effects

INHALATION: The alloys as sold do not represent inhalation hazards; however, airborne exposures to dust or fumes may result from welding, grinding or sanding operations or during repair or maintenance on contaminated equipment. Irritation of nose, throat, lungs, cough, metallic taste in mouth, fever, fatigue, nausea, bronchitis, chills, “metal fume fever,” decreased pulmonary function, asthma-like symptoms, Wilson’s disease, Parkinson’s disease. INGESTION: Ingestion can occur during hand-to-mouth transfer. No significant health hazards identified SKIN: Irritation may result from metal abrasion. EYES: Irritation or mechanical injury to cornea or conjunctiva may result from contact with airborne dust or contaminated hands.

Potential chronic health

Overexposure to metal dusts/fumes – damage to the respiratory system, nasal septum perforation (copper), and irritation of gastrointestinal tract. TARGET ORGANS: Generally, for exposure to dusts or fumes containing these elements, the respiratory system, central nervous system, blood, kidneys, skin, eyes, and livers may be affected. CARCINOGENICITY: N/A CONDITIONS AGGRAVATED BY EXPOSURE: Allergic reaction or sensitivity to metals. Persons with impaired pulmonary function, airway diseases or conditions such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis. Prior damage to blood, nervous system or kidneys. Wilson's disease can occur in those with a rare metabolic disorder characterized by retention of copper in liver, brain, kidneys and corneas. These individuals are at increased risk from copper exposure, which may lead to liver cirrhosis, brain damage, demyelination, and kidney disease. If untreated, Wilson's disease is progressive and may lead to fatal liver failure.