Bronze

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

Under normal handling and use, exposure to the solid form of copper or copper alloys presents few

Health hazards

Thermal cutting, melting, machining, grinding may produce fumes or dust containing the component elements and breathing these fumes or dust may present potentially significant The exposure levels are relevant to fumes and dust, fumes of copper may cause metal fume fever with flu-like symptoms and copper may cause skin and hair discoloration. Inhalation of lead fumes or dust, or ingestion of lead compounds can cause lead poisoning, characterized by abdominal pain, joint and muscle pains, or weakness. Prolonged overexposure can cause central nervous system disorders. Overexposure to zinc fumes may cause non-fatal metal fume fever. Excessive inhalation of nickel fumes has been associated with respiratory cancer. Also, nickel is a potential sensitizer, and thus may cause allergic reactions.