CLEAR & BLACK FPVC

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

OSHA PRECAUTIONARY INFORMATION Caution: If proper procedures for processing PVC compounds are not followed, processing vapors can be liberated at elevated temperatures. The presence of these vapors may result in exposure. Additionally, the composition of these fumes or vapors may vary widely according to the individual processing procedures and materials used. Processors must determine for themselves the appropriate equipment and procedures for their operation.

Principle Routes of Exposure

a. Inhalation of emissions during processing at elevated temperature. 2. Eye a. Vapors or fumes emitted during processing at elevated temperatures may cause eye irritation. Dust may cause eye irritation from handling. 3. Skin Contact a. Vapors or fumes emitted during processing at elevated temperatures may cause skin irritation. Dust resulting from powder handling may cause skin irritation. 4. Skin Absorption a. The compound in pellet form is a dry solid material. Absorption into the skin is unlikely in its initial form. b. Vapors or fumes during processing may absorb through the skin at low levels. 5. Ingestion a. Slightly toxic by ingestion. Airborne dust may occur during handling, resulting in incidental ingestion. Vapors or fumes emitted during processing at elevated temperatures may be ingested at low levels. Adequate ventilation should be provided. 6. Inhalation a. Airborne dust may occur during handling, which can result in a potential inhalation exposure. Vapors or fumes emitted during processing at elevated temperatures may be inhaled if not adequately ventilated. (continued)

2.1 Classification of the substance or mixture

1. Acute Effects a. Dust associated with the handling of PVC powder as well as vapors or fumes liberated from PVC compound at high temperatures may be irritating to the eyes, skin and respiratory tract if not adequately ventilated.

Potential chronic health

a. Chronic exposure to vapors or fumes from thermally decomposed or decomposing plastics or plastics that are otherwise exposed to elevated temperatures or are processed at elevated temperatures may cause an asthma- like syndrome due to the inhalation of processing vapors or fumes. The onset of irritation may be delayed for several hours. Vapors or fumes may accumulate within the facility during normal operating procedures that involve elevated temperatures. Exposure to these elevated concentrations, if not adequately ventilated, may have significant health effects. 3. Carcinogenic a. IARC has determined that there is inadequate evidence of carcinogenicity of a polyvinyl chloride compound in both animals and humans. The overall evaluation of polyvinyl chloride is Group 3, meaning that it is not classifiable as a carcinogen (IARC Vol. 19, 1979). Therefore, polyvinyl chloride is not