Sand, Silica

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Sand from the Universal Aggregate Solutions is a light colored to tan multicolored sand with no odor. It is not flammable, combustible, or explosive. It can cause irritation to the eyes. A single exposure will not result in serious adverse health effects. Crystalline silica is not known to be an environmental hazard.

Potential health effects

EYES: May cause irritation, redness and pain. SKIN: No adverse health effects expected. INHALATION: Respirateable crystalline silica (quartz) can cause chronic silicosis, a fibrosis (scarring of the lungs. Silicosis may be progressive; it may lead to disability and death. Crystalline silica (quartz) inhaled from occupational sources in sufficient concentration is classified as carcinogenic to humans. There is evidence that exposure to respirable crystalline silica may be associated with the increased incidence of several autoimmune disorders: scleroderma, systematic lupus erythermatosis, rheumatoid arthritis and diseases affecting the kidneys. INGESTION: No adverse health effects expected. CHRONIC EXPOSURE: Inhalation of quartz is classified as a human carcinogen. Chronic exposure can cause silicosis; a form of lung scarring that can cause shortness of breath, reduced lung function, and in severe cases, death. AGGRAVATION OF PRE- Inhalation may increase the progression of tuberculosis; susceptibility is apparently EXISTING CONDITIONS: not increased. Persons with impaired respiratory function may be more susceptible to the effects of this substance. Smoking can increase the risk of lung injury.