International Chemical Safety Cards

BERYLLIUM ICSC: 0226

BERYLLIUM
Glucinium
(powder)
Be
Atomic mass: 9.0
CAS # 7440-41-7
RTECS # DS1750000
ICSC # 0226
UN # 1567
EC # 004-001-00-7

TYPES OF
HAZARD/
EXPOSURE
ACUTE HAZARDS/
SYMPTOMS
PREVENTION FIRST AID/
FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE Combustible.
NO open flames.
Special powder, dry sand, NO other agents.
EXPLOSION Finely dispersed particles form explosive mixtures in air.
Prevent deposition of dust; closed system, dust explosion-proof electrical equipment and lighting.

 
EXPOSURE
PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! AVOID ALL CONTACT!
IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR!
INHALATION Cough. Shortness of breath. Sore throat. Weakness. Symptoms may be delayed (see Notes).
Local exhaust. Breathing protection.
Fresh air, rest. Refer for medical attention.
SKIN Redness.
Protective gloves. Protective clothing.
Remove contaminated clothes. Rinse skin with plenty of water or shower.
EYES Redness. Pain.
Face shield or eye protection in combination with breathing protection if powder.
First rinse with plenty of water for several minutes (remove contact lenses if easily possible), then take to a doctor.
INGESTION
Do not eat, drink, or smoke during work. Wash hands before eating.
Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Refer for medical attention.
SPILLAGE DISPOSAL STORAGE PACKAGING & LABELLING
Evacuate danger area! Consult an expert! Carefully collect the spilled substance into containers; if appropriate moisten first, then remove to safe place. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment (extra personal protection: complete protective clothing including self-contained breathing apparatus).
Separated from strong acids, bases, chlorinated solvents, food and feedstuffs.
Unbreakable packaging; put breakable packaging into closed unbreakable container. Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.
T+ symbol
R: 49-25-26-36/37/38-43-48/23
S: 53-45
Note: E
UN Hazard Class: 6.1
UN Subsidiary Risks: 4.1
UN Packing Group: II
SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON BACK
ICSC: 0226 Prepared in the context of cooperation between the International Programme on Chemical Safety & the Commission of the European Communities © IPCS CEC 1993

International Chemical Safety Cards

BERYLLIUM ICSC: 0226

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PHYSICAL STATE; APPEARANCE:
GREY TO WHITE METAL OR POWDER.

PHYSICAL DANGERS:
Dust explosion possible if in powder or granular form, mixed with air.

CHEMICAL DANGERS:
Reacts with strong acids and strong bases forming combustible gas (HYDROGEN - see ICSC # 0001). Forms shock sensitive mixtures with some chlorinated solvents, such as carbon tetrachloride and trichloroethylene.

OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE LIMITS (OELs):
TLV (as TWA): ppm; 0.002 mg/m3 A2 (Suspected Human Carcinogen) (ACGIH 1994-1995).


ROUTES OF EXPOSURE:
The substance can be absorbed into the body by inhalation of its aerosol and by ingestion.

INHALATION RISK:
Evaporation at 20°C is negligible; a harmful concentration of airborne particles can, however, be reached quickly when dispersed.

EFFECTS OF SHORT-TERM EXPOSURE:
The aerosol of this substance irritates the respiratory tract. Inhalation of dust or fumes may cause chemical pneumonitis. Exposure may result in death. The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated.

EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM OR REPEATED EXPOSURE:
Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. Lungs may be affected by repeated or prolonged exposure to dust particles , resulting in chronic beryllium disease (cough, weight loss, weakness). This substance is carcinogenic to humans.
PHYSICAL
PROPERTIES
Boiling point: above 2500°C
Melting point: 1287°C
Relative density (water = 1): 1.9
Solubility in water: none
ENVIRONMENTAL
DATA
The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms.
N O T E S
Depending on the degree of exposure, periodic medical examination is indicated.
Transport Emergency Card: TEC (R)-61G10
NFPA Code: H3; F1; R0
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION


ICSC: 0226 BERYLLIUM
© IPCS, CEC, 1993
IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTICE: Neither the CEC or the IPCS nor any person acting on behalf of the CEC or the IPCS is responsible for the use which might be made of this information. This card contains the collective views of the IPCS Peer Review Committee and may not reflect in all cases all the detailed requirements included in national legislation on the subject. The user should verify compliance of the cards with the relevant legislation in the country of use.