Safety Data Sheets Research Articles

Quality check of safety data sheets for plant protection product co-formulants: hazard classification and coherence of the information.

Hazard classification of chemicals can be defined as a logic-mathematical operation aimed at identifying the type and severity of the inherent hazards of a substance or a mixture. The purpose of this study was to evaluate, in 134 safety data sheets (SDSs): i) the hazard classification and ii) its coherence with sections 9 (physical-chemical properties), 11 (toxicological properties) and 12 (ecological properties) of the SDSs. Hazard classification and the information provided in sections 9, 11 and 12 of the SDSs have been evaluated against the criteria provided in annexes VI of the Dangerous Substance Directive, II and III of the Dangerous Preparations Directive, I and VI of the Regulation (EC) n. 1272/2008. Most of the analyzed SDSs of substances (62%) was associated to non-classified chemicals (61.4%), although 19.6% of them should have been classified. By contrast, 59.4% of classified substances (representing 38.6% of analyzed ones) were wrongly classified. Fifty-four %, 54% and 67% of suggested substances hazard classification were in line with sections 9 (physical-chemical properties), 11 (toxicological properties) and 12 (ecological properties). The proportion of hazard classification mistakes in SDS was significant, suggesting the need of more qualified experts to derive classification. The introduction of an ad hoc evaluation team, managed by a single, qualified specialist, could represent a solution to ensure the needed improvement of SDSs quality.

Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Control Measures as an Effective Tool of Occupational Health Assessment of Hazardous Process in an Iron Ore Pelletizing Industry.

Background:With the growing numbers of iron ore pelletization industries in India, various impacts on environment and health in relation to the workplace will rise. Therefore, understanding the hazardous process is crucial in the development of effective control measures. Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Control measures (HIRAC) acts as an effective tool of Occupational Health Assessment.Objective:The aim of the study was to identify all the possible hazards at different workplaces of an iron ore pelletizing industry, to conduct an occupational health risk assessment, to calculate the risk rating based on the risk matrix, and to compare the risk rating before and after the control measures.Materials and Methods:The research was a cross-sectional study done from March to December 2015 in an iron ore pelletizing industry located in Odisha, India. Data from the survey were collected by inspecting the workplace, responses of employees regarding possible hazards in their workplace, reviewing department procedure manual, work instructions, standard operating procedure, previous incident reports, material safety data sheet, first aid/injury register, and health record of employees.Results:A total of 116 hazards were identified. Results of the paired-sample's t-test showed that mean risk rating differs before taking control measures (M = 9.13, SD = 5.99) and after taking control measures (M = 2.80, SD = 1.38) at the 0.0001 level of significance (t = 12.6428, df = 115, N = 116, P < 0.0001, 95% CI for mean difference 5.34 to 7.32). On an average, risk reduction was about 6.33 points lower after taking control measures.Conclusion:The hazards having high-risk rating and above were reduced to a level considered As Low as Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) when the control measures were applied, thereby reducing the occurrence of injury or disease in the workplace.

A survey on selection, use, maintenance, and management of chemical protective gloves at workplaces in Japan.

The aim of this study was to survey the selection, use, and maintenance of chemical protective gloves (CPGs) at real workplaces. Subjects comprised 817 workers using CPGs at seven domestic manufacturing plants in Japan. We administered an anonymous questionnaire survey comprising the following aspect related to CPGs: environment of use, conditions of use, method of selection, knowledge/awareness pertaining to their use, method of use, precautionary measures associated with their use, maximum time of use, and maintenance. We compared responses provided by management staff and field workers. Chi square test was used for the analysis. Respondents included 661 (80.9%) manufacturing workers, 121 (14.8%) managers or supervisors, and 35 (4.3%) others. In total, 70.5% organic solvents, 28.9% acid or/and alkali, 18.1% dust, and 10.3% carcinogenic substances were the chemical substances handled using CPGs. The reason for deciding to wear CPGs was "the use of chemical substances" for 46.5%, "notice in safety data sheet (SDS) " for 29.8%, and "management staffs' guidance" for 21.4% respondents. "The grasp of chemical substances" was 70.1% (91.1% excluding "not applicable" ). "Warning of caution on skin and eyes" was indicated by 69.5% (91.0%) and "educational reasons for use of CPGs" was accepted by 68.1% (90.7%) respondents. On the other hand, the rate of responses such as "obtaining permeability test results of target substances" and "mixed substances are selected considering substances with short permeation time" was 25.2% (38.4%) and 29.2% (48.4%), respectively. The rate of "yes" as a response in the item concerning "permeation test" was low. On comparing the response provided by the management staff and field workers, the rate of "the permeation test result of the target substance was obtained" was 27.7% for management staff and 41.2% for field workers (p = 0.022). Regarding the cuffs of CPGs, the rate of "to fold back and to prevent sagging" and "mounted with tape" were 30.5% and 21.8% for management staff and 50.2% and 42.2% for field workers (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001), respectively. This survey results suggested that the knowledge of "permeation test" of CPGs was not yet popular at industrial workplaces. It is necessary to disseminate knowledge related to "permeation test" to the users from manufacturers of CPGs. Additionally, the employer should appoint an administrator to ensure that CPGs are worn and increase the understanding of correct knowledge and usage of CPGs among workers.

Mind What You Put in a Furnace: A Case Study for a Laboratory Incident

There is no doubt that laboratories are extremely dangerous places as many hazardous materials are dealt with. It is mandatory to take safety precautions in laboratories at all times with no excuses. Herein, we report an incident took place in a research laboratory at Department of Chemistry Al-Nahrain University as a result of dealing with some chemicals without knowing their risks in advance. We emphasize the importance of having all necessary information of the chemical that we wish to deal with, including the safety data sheet (SDS) and based on that we can make the risk assessment form. Also, we would like to recommend adding good and functional smoke detectors as well as some oxygen sensors to ensure safe working area.

Exposure Assessment of Hexavalent Chromium for a Powder Coating Spray Painter Associated with the Development of Lung Cancer

A 63-year-old man who diagnosed with lung cancer had worked for 13.5 years (1999–2013) as a spray painter. The Occupational Lung Diseases Institute conducted retrospective exposure assessment to examine whether a spray painter job he had performed could be associated with the development of lung cancer. We investigated lung cancer carcinogens in his work environment. The safety data sheet of six powder coating products showed that powder coatings contained 1–10% of hexavalent chromium. In addition, our quantitative analysis of powder coating samples also showed that the hexavalent chromium contents quantified in the yellow-green and red powder coating samples were 0.27% and 0.95%, respectively. In order to estimate his exposure level of hexavalent chromium, we measured a personal exposure level of hexavalent chromium for a spray painter in accordance with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health #7605 method. The results showed that the spray painter was exposed to the high level of hexavalent chromium (216.9 µg m–3). Furthermore, we estimated that he was likely exposed to several lung cancer carcinogens such as crystalline silica or asbestos over the approximately 24 years at various construction sites prior to assuming a job as a spray painter. Therefore, we concluded that his lung cancer was caused by substantial exposure to several lung cancer carcinogens over approximately 37.5 years. Particularly, exposure characteristic to hexavalent chromium could substantially contribute to the development of lung cancer, despite of the sole case of exposure assessment.

일부 반도체 사업장 포토레지스트 화학물질 MSDS 정보의 신뢰성 분석

일부 반도체 사업장 포토레지스트 화학물질 MSDS 정보의 신뢰성 분석

Ten questions concerning air fresheners and indoor built environments

Air fresheners are pervasive within indoor built environments, such as workplaces, schools, housing, transportation, hotels, hospitals, care facilities, and a range of private and public buildings. Air fresheners are designed to impart an aroma to the air environment or to mask odors, with the intent of creating a pleasing indoor space. However, despite the intent, air fresheners can emit and generate a range of potentially hazardous air pollutants that can impair air quality. Even so-called green and organic air fresheners can emit hazardous air pollutants. Air freshener ingredients are largely unknown and undisclosed, owing to regulatory protections on consumer product ingredients and on fragrance formulations. In studies, fewer than ten percent of all volatile ingredients are typically disclosed on air freshener labels or material safety data sheets. From an indoor air quality perspective, air fresheners have been indicated as a primary source of volatile organic compounds within buildings. From a health perspective, air fresheners have been associated with adverse effects, such as migraine headaches, asthma attacks, mucosal symptoms, infant illness, and breathing difficulties. This article investigates the seeming paradox that products designed to improve the indoor environment can pose unintended and unknown risks. It examines the science, health, and policy perspectives, and provides recommendations and research directions.

Safety and efficacy of maltol belonging to chemical group 12 when used as flavouring for all animal species

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of maltol, a compound belonging to chemical group 12 (maltol derivatives and ketodioxane derivatives). Maltol is currently authorised as a flavour in food. The FEEDAP Panel concludes that maltol added to the feed of all animal species is safe at the normal use level of 5 mg/kg feed. The high use level of 25 mg/kg feed is safe for all animal species except for piglets, chickens for fattening, laying hens and cats. No safety concern would arise for the consumer from the use of these compounds up to the highest proposed level in feeds. No specific data on the safety for the user were provided. In the material safety data sheet, hazards for skin and eye contact and respiratory system are recognised for maltol. The proposed maximum use level in feed for maltol is unlikely to pose a risk for the terrestrial and fresh water environments. Because maltol is used in food as flavouring, and its function in feed is essentially the same as that in food, no further demonstration of efficacy is necessary.

A comparison of control banding tools for nanomaterials

ABSTRACTControl banding (CB) is a useful approach to evaluate and control the risk of exposure to nanomaterials (NM) due to uncertainty surrounding their toxicity and challenges associated with their measurement. Four CB tools specifically developed for NMs (NanoSafer, Stoffenmanager-Nano, NanoTool, and the Precautionary matrix) have been evaluated for their changes to differences in hazard and exposure input data. The hazard and exposure classification were also compared with experimental data. The tools provided different hazard and emission/exposure outputs when compared with each other and with experimental data.For some of the tools the information required to estimate the hazard is not always available in the Safety Data Sheet and it requires expert judgement. The tools have the potential to be valuable starting points to assess areas of high priority, although outputs should be interpreted with care. Further work should be done to improve their estimates, especially the inclusion of modifiers that account for the effectiveness of the ventilation and the effect of high temperatures during the process.

Occurrence of selected volatile organic compounds in a bra cup manufacturing facility

This article presents a review of the types and levels of volatile organic compounds (VOC) detected in a bra cup manufacturing facility (considering the past 4 years) while conducting a human health risk assessment to selected VOCs. Most of the tested VOCs were undetected, except in the flocking section in 2014. However, from time to time dichloromethane and toluene were detected in the facility. Dichloromethane levels showed an increase with time in the laminating section (except during 2014) with drastically higher levels in 2015. SWIFT VS1 6016/5A (an adhesive) as per the material safety data sheet (MSDS) was the dichloromethane source. However, none of the MSDS revealed the occurrence of carcinogenic benzene (which was detected in 2014 in the flocking section) and 1,4-dichlorobenzene (which was detected in 2013 in the laminating and injection molding sections) and non-carcinogenic toluene indicating that MSDS do not accurately provide the identity of chemicals. Hazard Indices (HI) for non-carcinogenic VOCs and the total lifetime cancer risks (LCRs) and occupational exposure indices (E i ) for carcinogenic VOCs varied during the different time periods. Toluene in many cases accounted for 100 % of the HI. LCRs and E i of dichloromethane accounted for 100 % of the total LCR and total E i , respectively (except in the flocking section in 2014). LCR and E i of the individual VOCs (even the total LCR and E i values) were simultaneously high whenever the levels of the individual VOCs had exceeded the regulatory limits posing a health risk. Some measures needed to prevent exposure to VOCs are discussed in this article.

치과기공사의 물질안전보건자료에 대한 인식 - 경기도 치과기공사를 중심으로 -

치과기공사의 물질안전보건자료에 대한 인식 - 경기도 치과기공사를 중심으로 -

Bisphenol A Release: Survey of the Composition of Dental Composite Resins.

Background:Bisphenol A (BPA) is an endocrine disruptor with potential toxicity. Composite resins may not contain pure BPA, but its derivatives are widely used. Several studies found doses of BPA or its derivatives in saliva or urine of patients after composite resin placement.Objective:The aims of this study were to establish an exhaustive list of composite resins marketed in Europe and their composition, and to assess the extent of BPA derivatives used.Methods:A research on manufacturers' websites was performed to reference all composite resins marketed in Europe, then their composition was determined from both material safety data sheets and a standardized questionnaire sent to manufacturers. Manufacturers had to indicate whether their product contained the monomers listed, add other monomers if necessary, or indicate “not disclosed”.Results:160 composite resins were identified from 31 manufacturers and 23 manufacturers (74.2%) responded to the survey. From the survey and websites, the composition of 130 composite resins (81.2%) was: 112 (86.2%) based on BPA derivatives, 97 (74.7%) on bis-GMA, 17 (13.1%) without monomer derived from BPA (UDMA, sometimes with TEGDMA) and 6 (4.6%) with UDMA (only); 1 (0.8%) did not contain a BPA derivative or UDMA or TEGDMA. Pure BPA was never reported.Conclusion:This work has established a list of 18 composite resins that contain no BPA derivative. Manufacturers should be required to report the exact composition of their products as it often remains unclear or incomplete.

The acute lethal dose 50 (LD50) of caffeine in albino rats

An acute LD50 is a statistically derived amount of a substance that can be expected to cause death in 50% of the animals when given by a specified route as a single dose and the animals observed for a specified time period. Although conducting routine acute toxicity testing in rodents has been criticized, it can serve useful functions and also have practical implications. Material safety data sheets (MSDS) will reflect the acute toxicity of a substance and may require workers to wear protective gear, if appropriate, based on the LD50.There is no information in the scientific published literature which calculates a mean LD50 and standard deviation for caffeine administered orally to rats, using studies performed under good laboratory practice (GLP) or equivalent. This report does that and should be useful to manufacturers, packagers, transporters and regulators of this material.Using data from studies that are reproducible and reliable, the most accurate estimate of the acute LD50 of caffeine administered orally in male albino rats is hereby reported to be 367/mg/kg.

Toward cellulose nanomaterial commercialization: Knowledge gap analysis for Safety Data Sheets according to the Globally Harmonized System

Commercialization of cellulose nanomaterials (CNs) is rapidly advancing, to the benefit of many end-use product sectors, and providing information about the safe manufacturing and handling for CNs is a priority. Safety Data Sheets (SDS) are required for industrially produced materials to communicate information on their potential health, fire, reactivity, and environmental hazards, and to provide recommendations on how to safely work with these materials. Cellulose and cellulose pulp, which have widespread commercial end uses, can create nuisance dusts when dried and are required to have SDS. We therefore expect that nanoscale forms of cellulose will also require SDS. This study identifies the currently available SDS information for CNs and highlights existing gaps in our knowledge. With U.S. and international adoption of the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) for Hazard Communication, producers are required to report SDS known data and data gaps. Given the novelty of all nanomaterials, it is preferable to fill these gaps in SDS as a demonstration of our commitment to the safe production and use of these materials. To evaluate the availability of SDS information and prepare for commercialization of CNs, we assessed available safety information for CNs to identify available GHS SDS data, data gaps, and what data need to yet be developed to fully classify CNs according to the GHS. Specifically, we report on the available data and gaps regarding the toxicological profile, environmental characteristics, physical and chemical properties, exposure controls, and personal protection for cellulose nanomaterials, to encourage the development of missing data and advance safe commercialization.

Cleaner production in a remanufacturing process of air compressors

This article provides relevant results of a cleaner production program conducted in a company dedicated to remanufacturing air compressors in the city of Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico. The overall study design was based on an integration of acknowledged cleaner production and pollution prevention programs. Although this kind of program also involves environmental issues, this study focused on occupational health and safety by addressing different aspects of the work environment: ergonomic, physical (noise and lighting), and chemical. Particularly, ergonomic aspects were evaluated through the Modular Arrangement of Predetermined Time Standards (MODAPTS) method. For physical aspects, noise and lighting were addressed through Standard No. NOM-011-STPS-2001 and Standard No. NOM-025-STPS-2008 respectively. In addition, chemical aspects were analyzed through material safety data sheets and different search tools. Root causes of each risk were identified, and options to prevent, eliminate, and/or reduce each risk have been provided.

Genotoxic evaluation of tert-butyl methacrylate for workers’ health with bacterial reverse mutation (Ames) and in vitro mammalian chromosomal aberration assay

Chemical hazard evaluations are important for work-ers’ health and working environments. tert-Butyl methacrylate (CAS No. 585-07-9) is used in many in-dustries, leading to concerns about the possibility of threats to the health of workers. Since only insufficient or controversial information is available about potential related hazards, Ames assay and in vitro mammalian chromosomal aberration (CA) assay were conducted in order to gain additional information concerning any such hazards. Moreover, toxicologi- cal information from this study could be applied for workers’ rights as background knowledge, and for the preparation or update of the Materials Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for a number of industries. In this Ames reverse mutation study, treatment of 1,250, 625, 312.5, 156.25, 78.125 pg/plate did not induce mutagenicity in Salmonella typhimurium TA98, TA100, TA1535, TA1537, or in Escherichia coli WP2uvrA with and without metabolic activation. In vitro chromosomal aberration assay was performed using the Chinese hamster lung fibroblast cell (ATCC, CRL-1935) by the direct method (− S9) and by the metabolic activated method (+S9 mix) at a dose of 0.039, 0.078, 0.156, 0.312, 0.625, 1.25, 2.5 mg/mL. Using the direct method, the seven dosages in the 48-hour treatment group did not show that the frequency of CA was proportional to the dosage. The frequency of CA is not proportional to the dosage addition for a six-hour treatment using the metabolic activated method. From these findings, the chemical does not have mutagenic potential under the conditions of the Ames assay, but also does not induce chromosomal aberrations under the tested conditions. However, further investigations are necessary because it may be harmful to workers after ingestion, inhalation, skin or eye contact. It is also desirable to prepare a local exhaust system and to wear personal protection equipment.

Nanomaterials in construction – what is being used, and where?

Identifying where nanomaterials are present in construction materials is challenging. Academic literature reports what nanotechnology can offer construction, but this can differ from the reality of what is currently in use. Furthermore, it is difficult to source accurate information regarding nano-enabled products on the market; under current legislation, the declaration of nano content is voluntary and there is no requirement to provide details within safety data sheets. Although publically available information remains opaque and incomplete, several studies and reports have attempted to clarify this situation. This research builds on this information, presenting an overview of the nano-enabled products currently available for use in construction. This is based on the literature, manufacturers' published information and on discussions with suppliers and end users. Concrete, glass and coatings are the most widely available nano-enabled products, together with insulation and special steels. The precise nanomaterial used in each case however, and the form and quantity involved can be difficult to identify. This makes assessing the risks difficult, which is problematic, as some nanomaterials are considered to be hazardous. More detailed information regarding commercially available products will be important if risks are to be managed, enabling the industry to take full advantage of the benefits of nanotechnology.

Review of the Literature on Determinants of Chemical Hazard Information Recall among Workers and Consumers

In many low and middle income countries (LMIC), workers’ and consumers’ only access to risk and hazard information in relation to the chemicals they use or work with is on the chemical label and safety data sheet. Recall of chemical hazard information is vital in order for label warnings and precautionary information to promote effective safety behaviors. A literature review, therefore, was conducted on determinants of chemical hazard information recall among workers and consumers globally. Since comprehension and recall are closely linked, the determinants of both were reviewed. Literature was reviewed from both online and print peer reviewed journals for all study designs and countries. This review indicated that the level of education, previous training and the inclusion of pictograms on the hazard communication material are all factors that contribute to the recall of hazard information. The influence of gender and age on recall is incongruent and remains to be explored. More research is required on the demographic predictors of the recall of hazard information, the effect of design and non-design factors on recall, the effect of training on the recall among low literate populations and the examining of different regions or contexts.

Development of Greenness Index as an evaluation tool to assess reagents: Evaluation based on SDS (Safety Data Sheet) information

Evaluation of the impacts of reagents on SHE (safety, health, and the environment) is crucial for industries, regulatory agencies, and governments; however, it is a nontrivial task and there has not been universal acceptance of metrics or tools for this purpose. We have been developing an evaluation tool called Greenness Index to provide a holistic assessment of reagents used in various industries. Analysis by means of this tool is based on information found in reagent SDSs (Safety Data Sheets) plus metrics for various consequences when the reagent is used in a particular application. SDSs contain information on the various properties of a reagent and how it impacts SHE from cradle to grave; however, these summaries rarely consider the multifarious possibilities of how the reagent may transform during use in an application. Including such features in a more complete evaluation of the SHE impact of a reagent is the ultimate goal of our efforts to develop Greenness Index. Efforts reported here are in the preliminary step of representing the panoply of SHE information found in SDSs in a manner that allows a more holistic, multi-parametric comparison of reagents. Five clusters (Health Impact, General Properties, Odor, Fire Safety, and Stability) of attributes that are combined to form a total evaluation were created based on widely accepted sustainability guidelines such as the Green Chemistry 12 Principles and Green Engineering 12 Principles. Sorting and binning algorithms were developed to quantify each attribute and cluster of attributes, resulting in quantitative scores for each. Scores are displayed graphically to help visualize the relative Greenness of the reagent. Displays are in the form of a hierarchy of spider-diagrams. This Greenness Index method has been applied in a variety of instances to specific reagents used in various industries such as mineral processing and personal care. Greenness Index analysis of PAX (Potassium Amyl Xanthate), commonly used as a flotation reagent in mineral processing, is described here as an example. Results from such an analysis can be incorporated into a decision making process that facilitates the selection of greener reagents and provides valuable insights to improve and develop sustainable practices.

Control banding assessment of exposure of offset printing workers to organic solvents.

We aimed to assess the exposure of offset printing workers to hazardous substances in the rinsing processes of small-sized companies using a control banding method. We obtained half-year amounts of hazardous substances purchased through a questionnaire survey and the hazardous information from the safety data sheets (SDSs) and related literature. The amount of petroleum kerosine and carbon hydride markedly increased in 2013 compared with that in 2010. In contrast, the amount of dichloromethane (DCM) decreased in 2013, and 1,2-dichloropropane (DCP) was not used in either 2010 or 2013. Mineral oil and xylene were allocated to Hazard Group D and judged to require Control Approach 3. In addition to DCM with Global Harmonization System's carcinogenic category 1, mildly treated mineral oil and solvent naphtha, allocated into Hazard Group E, are carcinogenic to humans and were judged to require Control Approach 4. There are two limitations of the control banding assessment: first, only limited and scarce hazard information could be obtained from SDSs, and second, safe-sided judgment for control technology for industrial hygiene. Small-sized enterprises are encouraged to implement control banding assessment for hazardous substances and to access expert advice available from Regional Industrial Health Centers. Easy access to appropriate expert advice is important to compensate for the limited and scarce hazard information and safe-sided judgment for control technology for Control Approaches 3 and 4.