TIME-WEIGHTED AVERAGE (TLV-TWA): 0.05 mg/m³ - Carcinogenicity Designation A3

CARCINOGENICITY DESIGNATION A3 - Animal Carcinogen: Substance is carcinogenic in laboratory animals under conditions that are not considered relevant to worker exposure. Available human studies and evidence suggest that the substance is not likely to cause cancer in humans except under unusual or unlikely routes or levels of exposure. Worker exposure to an A3 carcinogen should be controlled to levels as low as reasonably achievable below the TLV.

TLV BASIS - CRITICAL EFFECT(S) : CNS (central nervous system); Blood; Kidney; Reproductive.

BIOLOGICAL EXPOSURE INDICES (BEIs): The ACGIH has adopted a BEI for this chemical. BEIs provide an indication of worker exposure by measuring the chemical or its breakdown products in the body or by measuring biochemical changes resulting from exposure to the chemical. Consult the BEI documentation for further information.

NOTE: In many jurisdictions, exposure limits are similar to the ACGIH TLVs. Since the manner in which exposure limits are established, interpreted, and implemented can vary, obtain detailed information from the appropriate government agency in each jurisdiction. Many jurisdictions have specific regulations requiring worksite programs for lead. Obtain detailed information from the appropriate government agency in each jurisdiction.

Lead metal (e.g., ingots, bars) is not combustible but lead powder is a combustible dust. Finely divided lead is pyrophoric and chemically reactive. Under certain conditions, a dust cloud of lead can explode when ignited by a spark or flame. When evaluating the explosion hazard of a specific process or sample of material, the important factors to consider include: particle size and shape, dust concentration, the nature of any impurities, oxygen concentration, humidity, and extent of containment.

Lead is normally stable. Fresh cut or cast lead surfaces oxidize rapidly to form an insoluble protective layer of basic lead carbonate.

For lead powder only: Generation of dust, sparks, flames or other sources of ignition.

Lead is probably odourless: no relevant information was found.

There is insufficient information available for evaluation.

This material is a VERY TOXIC (POSSIBLE CANCER HAZARD, REPRODUCTIVE HAZARD, TERATOGEN, MUTAGEN) solid. There is a DANGER OF CUMULATIVE EFFECTS if inhaled or ingested. Before handling, it is extremely important that engineering controls are operating and that protective equipment requirements and personal hygiene measures are being followed. Only authorized personnel should have access to this material. They should be properly trained regarding its hazards and its safe use. Maintenance and emergency personnel should be advised of potential hazards.

If lead powder is released, immediately put on a suitable respirator and leave the area until the severity of the release is determined. In case of leaks or spills, escape-type respiratory protective equipment should be available in the work area. Unprotected persons should avoid all contact with this chemical including contaminated equipment. Immediately report leaks, spills or ventilation failures. Be aware of typical signs and symptoms of poisoning and first aid procedures. Any signs of illness should be reported immediately to supervisory personnel. Use in clearly posted, designated area(s). Control access to designated area. Access doors must remain closed while this material is present.

When handling lead powder on a large scale, closed handling systems for processes should be used. If this is not possible, use in the smallest possible amounts in appropriate labelled, containment devices (e.g. fume hood). Containment devices should be made of smooth, unbreakable, compatible material. Maintain containment devices at appropriate air flow and negative pressure. Check regularly.

Avoid generating dusts. Prevent the release of dust into workplace air. Use the proper tools too open containers. Ripping open a container can cause an uneven tear, thus making spills more likely. Cover work surfaces with compatible, chemical resistant and/or disposable material for easier containment and clean-up of spills. Good housekeeping is very important. Keeping work areas clean is essential. Use work surfaces that can be easily decontaminated.

Avoid generating vapours or mists. Prevent the release of vapours/mist into workplace air. To avoid splashing, carefully dispense into sturdy containers made of compatible materials.

Do not use with incompatible materials such as strong oxidizing agents, strong acids and strong bases. Never return contaminated material to its original container.

Prevent damage to containers. Label containers. Open containers carefully on a stable surface. Keep containers closed when not in use. Assume that empty containers contain residues which are hazardous.

Maintain good personal hygiene. When handling on a large scale, a double locker-shower set-up is usually necessary.

Follow handling precautions on Material Safety Data Sheet. Have suitable emergency equipment for fires, spills and leaks readily available. Maintain handling equipment. Comply with applicable regulations.

Engineering methods to control hazardous conditions are preferred. Methods include mechanical (local exhaust) ventilation, process or personnel enclosure and control of process conditions. Because of the high potential hazard associated with this substance, stringent control measures such as enclosure or isolation may be necessary. Administrative controls and personal protective equipment may also be required.

Use a ventilation system separate from other exhaust ventilation systems. Exhaust directly to the outside. Locate dust collectors outside or where permitted by regulation. Supply sufficient replacement air to make up for air removed by exhaust systems.