ZOCO

SECTION 2: Hazards identification

OSHA Regulatory Status Emergency Overview Zinc oxide is a fine white odorless powder that is not flammable or combustible under normal conditions of transport and storage. It is insoluble in water. Inhalation of zinc oxide dust may cause coughing, choking or irritation of the nose, throat, and upper respiratory tract. Inhalation of freshly formed zinc oxide can lead to metal fume fever. The dust may cause eye and skin irritation. Zinc oxide is not carcinogen. OSHA Regulatory Status This material is not hazardous. Please refer to Section 15, “Regulatory Information” for status with respect to various regulations.

Potential health effects

Zinc Oxide dust is primarily a nuisance dust, but exposures to high concentrations can result in respiratory system effects in humans. Volunteers inhaling 600 mg/m3 zinc oxide dust for 10 minutes exhibited persistent rales, decrease vital capacity, coughing, upper respiratory tract irritation and substernal pain. Studies have reported that exposures to concentrations up to 430 mg/m3 zinc oxide resulted in chest pain. Inhalation of zinc oxide fume can result in metal fume fever with symptoms of chills, mild fever and aching muscles and joints lasting 24 hours or less. Eye contact Zinc oxide can cause irritation, tearing and mild temporary pain. Ingestion Zinc oxide may cause vomiting, nausea, thirst, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Inhalation Zinc oxide dust is non- toxic if inhaled, except of a few reported cases of metal fume fever. Some workers develop a tolerance after repeated daily exposure to zinc oxide fume. This tolerance is lost after short periods away from work. Skin Contact Zinc oxide may cause irritation to the skin.

Environmental effects

Zinc Oxide has very low solubility in water and generally has no direct bioavailability. Refer to SECTION 15- REGULATORY INFORMATION.