TimberPreservativesGN_NOHSC3007_1989

Guidance Note for the Safe Handling of Timber Preservatives and Treated Timber 13 PREFACE In February 1987 the Draft Code of Practice and Guidance Note on Safe Handling of Timber Preservatives and Treated Timber were released for public comment by the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission in accordance with s.38(4) of the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission Act 1985 (Cwlth). The following documents contained in this publication, were prepared by the Timber Preservatives Working Party after consideration of the submissions received by the National Commission during the public comment period: • National Code of Practice for the Safe Handling of Timber Preservatives and Treated Timber; and • Guidance Note for the Safe Handling of Timber Preservatives and Treated Timber. A code of practice declared by the National Commission pursuant to Part VI of the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission Act is a document prepared for the purpose of advising employers and workers of an acceptable preventive action for averting occupational deaths, injuries and diseases in relation to specific workplace hazards. The expectation of the Commonwealth Government and the National Commission is that national codes of practice will be suitable for adoption by Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments. Such action will increase uniformity in the regulation of occupational health and safety throughout Australia and contribute to the enhanced efficiency of the Australian economy. The expectation of the National Commission is that guidance notes will provide detailed information for use by unions, employers, management, health and safety committee representatives, safety officers, medical practitioners and others requiring guidance. It should be noted that national codes of practice and guidance notes declared by the National Commission are instruments of an advisory character, except where a law, other than the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission Act, or an instrument made under such a law, makes them mandatory. The application of any National Commission document in any particular State or Territory is the prerogative of that State or Territory. The National Commission, having considered public comment on the draft document, now declares a final Code of Practice on the Safe Handling of Timber Preservatives and Treated Timber pursuant to s.38(1) of the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission Act. vii viii GLOSSARY OF TERMS absorption acute albuminuria alopecia anorexia anuria aplastic anaemia asphyxia cancer carcinogenic chap chronic colitis conjunctivitis cutaneous cutaneous neoplasms cyanosis dermatitis duodenal dyspnoea emesis erythema one of the routes for chemical entry into the body, for example, via the skin or lungs. generally refers to a single dose, high-concentration exposure over short time period presence of serum albumin in the urine loss of hair lack or loss of appetite for food cessation of urine output by kidneys anaemia caused by the failure of the bone marrow to produce an adequate amount of blood cells a morbid condition caused by failure of tissues to receive or utilise oxygen, the fault occurring in the respiratory system, blood or tissues a malignant tumour cancer-causing roughened or cracked, for example, skin chronic repeated or continuous exposure over long time periods inflammation of the colon (which is the large bowel) inflammation of the membrane lining the eyelids and eyeball of the skin skin tumour which may be benign or malignant bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membrane due to reduced level of oxygen in the blood inflammation of the skin refers to the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine after the stomach difficult or laboured breathing the act of vomiting congestive or exudative redness of the skin ix exfoliation exposure standard separation of fragments of dead bone or of skin in scales an airborne concentration of a particular substance in the worker's breathing zone, exposure to which according to current knowledge should not cause adverse health effects nor cause undue discomfort to nearly all workers refers to chemical which is toxic to the foetus inflammation of the stomach inflammation of the stomach and intestines the presence of blood in the urine prefix meaning `increase in some condition' prefix meaning `decrease in some condition' condition of living tissue marked by heat, swelling, redness and usually pain one of the routes for chemical entry into the body via the digestive system one of the routes for chemical entry into the body via the lungs yellowing of the skin caused by the deposition of bile pigment inflammation of the cornea that dose that is lethal for 50 per cent of test animals malignant disease of the blood-forming organs, characterised by the abnormal development of white blood cells in the blood and the bone marrow a general term applied to any neoplastic disorder of the lymphoid tissue membrane that lines many of the hollow organs of the body, lubricated by mucus pertaining to a physical or chemical substance which is capable of producing genetic changes in cells the partition between the nostrils in the nose any new and abnormal growth of tissue inflammation of the nerves an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the inter-cellular spaces of the body pertaining to the canal from the mouth to the stomach diminished urine output capable of producing tumours x foetotoxic gastritis gastroenteritis haematuria hyperhypoinflammation ingestion inhalation jaundice keratitis LD50 leukaemia lymphoma mucous membrane mutagenic nasal septum neoplasm neuritis oedema oesophageal oliguria oncogenic papular peripheral neuritis pharynx photosensitivity rales rhinitis sarcoma shall should systemic teratogenic tubular necrosis TWA vascular ventricular arrhythmias vertigo vesicular relates to a solid elevated skin lesion, up to 5 mm in diameter inflammation of peripheral nerves the musculo-membranous cavity behind the nasal cavity and mouth sensitivity to light abnormal sound of the lungs heard with the aid of a stethoscope inflammation of the nasal mucous membrane malignant tumour of the connective tissue indicates that a requirement is mandatory indicates a recommendation affecting the body as a whole capable of producing foetal abnormalities kidney damage time-weighted average pertaining to blood vessels any variation from the normal rhythm of the heart beat a disturbed sensation in relation to space relates to a fluid-containing elevated skin lesion, up to 5 mm in diameter xi 14 Page 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. INTRODUCTION CREOSOTE COPPER CHROME ARSENIC PENTACHLOROPHENOL CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES BORON COMPOUNDS TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE NAPHTHENATES COPPER QUINOLINOLATE PYRETHROIDS 17 19 22 27 30 34 36 38 40 43 15 16 1. INTRODUCTION SCOPE 1.1 The purpose of this guidance note is to provide detailed information to supplement the Code of Practice on the Safe Handling of Timber Preservatives and Treated Timber. It is directed especially towards union and employer management, safety committee representatives, safety officers, medical practitioners and others requiring detailed guidance. 9.1 . . . . It presents information on individual preservative chemicals relating to: their physical and chemical properties and uses; first aid measures; health hazards; and medical surveillance and, where necessary, medical management. 1.3 New chemicals for wood preservation are constantly being developed and those listed here are not necessarily exhaustive. Mirex and endrin are referred to but are not approved for use as timber preservatives in the States or Territories of Australia. 1.4 While this document addresses many of the issues, procedures and work practices required for handling timber preservatives and timber treated with them, valuable additional information may be gained from Standards Australia. The referenced documents and further reading which are included in this publication list a number of relevant standards. MEDICAL INFORMATION General Comments 1.5 In general, medical surveillance is recommended for those persons who have the potential for exposure to timber preservative chemicals. This relates predominantly to persons applying chemicals to timber and would not normally apply to persons working with dry treated timber. 1.6 The advice given on medical management is recommended and does not imply that this is the only suitable form of treatment. It remains the responsibility of the attending doctor to provide appropriate management in cases of poisoning and to assume full responsibility for this treatment. 1.7 The organic solvents used in timber preservatives are usually hydrocarbon solvents of the white spirit or kerosene type. These solvents are primary skin irritants which chap and dry the skin and may cause dermatitis after prolonged exposure. Eye irritation may be caused on contact with liquid or vapour. If ingested, they may cause irritation of the mouth, throat and digestive tract, resulting in vomiting and abdominal pain. These solvents often make up over 90 per cent of the bulk of a formulation and pose additional hazards from fire and explosion in certain situations. 1.8 Where the active ingredient of a timber preservative is dissolved or suspended in a hydrocarbon solvent, the first aid instructions for the treatment of ingestion of the active ingredient and solvent may be in conflict. Thus the active ingredient may call for the induction of vomiting whereas the instructions for the solvent may specify not to induce vomiting due to the risk of lung inflammation from aspiration of the solvent into the lungs. In such cases, the risk of leaving the poison in the digestive system should be balanced against the risks of aspiration. The recommendation to induce vomiting or not thus depends on the concentration of various components. For further advice on this, refer to label instructions or material safety data sheets, individual sections of the Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Drugs and Poisons7 or contact a poisons information centre. Vomiting should not be induced if the patient is unconscious, convulsing or has lost the gag reflex. 17 1.9 The physician should make himself/herself aware of what specific blood tests are required to take into account those chemicals to which the individual has or may be exposed. 1.10 Advice specific to individual preservatives is listed under medical information for the preservative. EXPOSURE STANDARD General Comments 1.11 Throughout this guidance note reference has been made to the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission's Draft Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the Occupational Environment8. 1.12 The exposure standards listed in this document are proposed exposure levels pending the finalisation of the exposure standards document. Detailed discussion on the rationale utilised for establishing these standards may be found at Appendix A. 18 2. CREOSOTE DESCRIPTION 2.1 In Australia, creosote is produced by distilling coal tar derived as a by-product of metallurgical coke ovens. This is known as high temperature creosote (HTC) and is described in Australian Standard AS 11439. Technically, creosote is a low-boiling distillate of coal tar. The chemical constituents of creosote are numerous; it is estimated that a complex mixture of 1000 compounds may be present (mostly in trace amounts), many being of the aromatic series. 2.2 Timber treated with creosote is visually recognisable and has a characteristic, pungent odour. Combinations with chlorinated cyclodiene preservatives are sometimes used. 2.3 Pigment emulsified creosote (PEC) is an emulsion which offers a similar degree of preservation as HTC and leaves a comparatively dry treated surface. The development of PEC may reduce the exposure of workers to creosote in treated timber. PEC contains a pigment, such as titanium dioxide, stabilisers, and surfactants. Details on these should be provided to employees and their representatives in accordance with the Approved Occupational Health Guide: Recognition and Appraisal of Chemical Hazards10. 2.4 Common names are creosote, coal tar creosote, HTC, PEC, low-temperature creosote and K55 creosote. Appendix B has a cross-referenced list of trade names and synonyms. USES 2.5 The principal use of creosote is as a timber preservative against fungi, termites and marine borers. It is mainly used in the pressure impregnation of timber for power and telephone poles, pilings, sleepers and so on and for ground line maintenance of these. It is also used as a brush-on preservative for posts, stumps and other timber in contact with the ground. 2.6 Creosote should not be used to treat timber for use in residential portions of buildings. EXPOSURE STANDARD 2.7 No exposure standard has been proposed by the National Commission for creosote. 2.8 The United States National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has recommended an occupational exposure limit of 0.1 mg/m3 TWA (cyclohexane-extractable fraction) for coal tar products11. The National Commission has proposed an exposure standard of 0.2 mg/m3 for coal tar pitch volatiles (as benzene solubles)8. FIRST AID Ingestion 2.9 If poisoning occurs, contact a doctor or a poisons information centre. Skin Contact 2.10 For liquid splashes, immediate action should be taken to remove contaminated clothing and thoroughly wash contaminated skin with plenty of water, followed by a soap and water wash, then by a methylated spirits wash followed by a further soap and water wash. Contact a doctor or hospital if, after thorough washing, any of the symptoms listed in paragraphs 2.15 and 2.16 persist. Report exposure to supervisor and the health and safety representative. If the creosote concentration is greater than 25 per cent, swab repeatedly with glycerine, polyethylene glycol (PEG), PEG-methylated spirits mixture or, if necessary, methylated spirits alone. 19 Eye Contact 2.11 If dust or liquids containing creosote get into the eyes, hold the lids apart and gently flush with copious quantities of water. Contact lenses should be removed before flushing. If irritation or pain persists after fifteen minutes of eye irrigation, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Overall Health Assessment 2.12 Creosote is known to cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation. It can also cause photosensitive reactions. Repeated contact over long periods of time may be responsible for the development of cutaneous neoplasms. Skin cancer has been produced in experimental animals. There are no validated published epidemiological studies showing whether workers exposed to creosote have suffered from an increased risk of cancer, although there are a number of case reports. Absorption 2.13 Creosote may be absorbed through the intact skin12. Vapours may be inhaled especially at treatment plants and during handling of timber exhibiting surface exudation of oil. Dust or vapour generated when cutting treated timber may also be inhaled. 2.14 Accidental ingestion is unlikely unless poor hygiene and work practices allow it. Short Term Effects 2.15 Contact with creosote or creosote vapour may cause irritation of the skin. For example, the skin may become red, papular, vesicular or ulcerated, depending on the period of exposure. Increased photosensitisation, that is, susceptibility to sunburn from ultraviolet exposure, may occur, particularly on the face or hands. Vapours and contact can produce an intense burning of the membranes of the eyes and respiratory tract. Eye contact can lead to conjunctivitis and keratitis. 2.16 One or more of the following effects may be evident on short term exposure to high concentrations. (a) Systemic: nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, anorexia and difficulty in swallowing, salivation, abdominal discomfort, respiratory distress, cyanosis, pupillary changes, convulsive movements, rapid pulse, vascular collapse. (b) Neurological: headaches, fainting, vertigo and mental disturbances. Long Term Effects 2.17 2.18 Skin cancer may result from long term exposure, as described above. Chronic exposure may provide sufficient absorption to show the systemic effects listed above. MEDICAL INFORMATION 2.19 The following sub-section should be read in conjunction with paragraphs 1.5 through 1.10 of this guidance note. In particular, paragraph 1.8 provides additional information relating to the treatment of persons who have ingested a timber preservative dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. 20 Medical Surveillance 2.20 A program of regular medical surveillance should be implemented for persons permanently employed in the timber treatment industry and for persons who, as part of their normal work activities, have substantial contact with creosote-coated timbers. For such persons, it is recommended that: . a pre-placement physical examination should be made which involves a thorough examination of all kin areas (including the scrotum), noting any abnormal lesions, pigmented naevi, warts or scars. These should be recorded on a body outline form, showing both front and back views, noting size; physical examinations should thereafter be made at six-monthly or twelve-monthly intervals, depending on the extent of exposure. These should note any changes in skin features, using the body outline form described above. Particular emphasis should be given to the surveillance for evidence of skin sensitisation; and medical examinations may include respiratory tests, checks of kidney and liver function and blood tests if indicated. . . 21 3. COPPER CHROME ARSENIC DESCRIPTION 3.1 Copper chrome arsenic (CCA) preservative is made from a mixture of arsenic pentoxide or arsenic acid, copper sulphate or oxide and sodium or potassium dichromate or chromic acid. The resulting composition is 8 to 12 per cent copper, 13 to 16 per cent chromium and 11 to 24 per cent arsenic. Zinc oxide and phosphoric acid may sometimes be added as anti-afterglow agents. In the process, the CCA chemicals react in the timber to form a water-insoluble compound which is permanently fixed in the timber. A by-product is sodium sulphate, which is often noticed as a white powder on the surface of freshly-treated timber. 3.2 Timber treated with CCA is generally identifiable by its green appearance, but weathering, timber species and formulation differences will sometimes make the identification difficult. Colorimetric tests for identification are given in Australian Standard AS 160513. 3.3 USES 3.4 CCA preservative is used almost exclusively in the pressure treatment of timber, although it can be used for the sap replacement of hardwood fence posts. Freshly treated timber should be held on the treatment plant premises for a sufficient period to ensure fixation of the preservative and surface dryness. It is recommended that this period be two weeks. 3.5 Where treated timber is to be used for playground equipment or log cabin construction, a storage period of four to six weeks is recommended before distribution (see Australian Standard AS 192414). All treated timber intended for this use should also be washed prior to distribution to remove surface build-up of dried salts. NOTE: In accordance with the section dealing with branding and provision of information, material safety data sheets for CCA-treated timber should include a warning on precautions to be taken when machining internally wet timber. These precautions should include the use of respirators with particulate filters in dust-producing operations, and gauntlet gloves. EXPOSURE STANDARD 3.6 The National Commission's Draft Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the Occupational Environment8 has proposed exposure standards for some of the constituent elements in this preparation. Proposed Exposure Standards 3.7 Arsenic and its soluble compounds, as As Chromium (VI)compounds (water soluble), as Cr Copper salts, dusts and mists, as Cu 0.05 mg/m3 0.05 mg/m3 1.0 mg/m3 The common name is CCA. Appendix B has a cross-referenced list of trade names and synonyms. 22 FIRST AID Ingestion 3.8 If swallowed, induce vomiting using Ipecac Syrup (AFP) if available and contact a doctor or a poisons information centre. Skin Contact 3.9 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get on the skin, wash the contaminated skin using soap or mild detergent and water. If the liquids penetrate clothing, remove it immediately and wash the skin thoroughly using soap and water. If irritation or other effects consistent with skin absorption are present after washing, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Eye Contact 3.10 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get into the eyes, hold the lids apart and gently flush eyes with large amounts of water. Contact lenses should be removed before flushing. If irritation or pain persists after fifteen minutes of eye irrigation, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Overall Health Assessment THE FOLLOWING EFFECTS RELATE TO THE CONSTITUENT CHEMICALS USED IN TREATMENT PLANTS, NOT TO EFFECTS FROM TREATED TIMBER 3.11 The main health concern centres on the use of pentavalent arsenic and hexavalent chromium in the treatment plant. 3.12 The most commonly encountered form of arsenic in the timber treatment industry is arsenic pentoxide, which is considered to be less toxic than arsenic trioxide. 3.13 Arsenic poisoning may result from ingestion, but a more likely source is inhalation of dust contaminated by arsenic. Hence it is recommended that the arsenic and chromium components should be supplied to the treatment plant in a liquid concentrate or paste form. 3.14 Exposure to inorganic arsenic compounds in drugs, drinking water and occupational environments is causally associated with the development of skin cancer in humans. The risk of lung cancer was increased four to twelve times in certain smelter workers who inhaled high levels of arsenic trioxide, however, the influence of other constituents in the working environment could not be excluded. Case reports have suggested an association between exposure to arsenic compounds and the occurrence of blood disorders and liver tumours15,16,17,18. 3.15 An increased incidence of lung cancer has been observed among workers in the chromate-producing industry, and possibly also among chromium platers and chromium alloy workers. There is a suggestion that cancers at other sites are also increased in such populations. The chromium compound(s) responsible has not been specified15,16,18. Absorption 3.16 Absorption results from skin contact with treatment solutions. 23 3.17 Absorption may result from inhalation of dusts, mists and sprays or ingestion of inspirable dusts. Poor hygiene, unsatisfactory work practices and poorly designed work systems may also contribute to accidental ingestion. Short Term Effects THE FOLLOWING EFFECTS RELATE TO THE CONSTITUENT CHEMICALS USED IN TREATMENT PLANTS, NOT TO EFFECTS FROM TREATED TIMBER. Arsenic 3.18 Acute poisoning from ingestion of arsenic at doses approaching the minimum lethal dose causes restlessness, nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, chills, cramps, irritability and variable paralysis which may progress over a period of several weeks. Ventricular arrhythmias may occur. After ingestion of overwhelming amounts of arsenic (ten times the minimum lethal dose), initial symptoms are those of violent gastroenteritis; burning oesophageal pain, vomiting, and copious watery or bloody diarrhoea containing shreds of mucus. Later, the skin becomes cold and clammy, the blood pressure falls and weakness is marked. Death is from circulatory failure. Convulsions and coma are the terminal signs. If death is not immediate, jaundice and oliguria or anuria appear after one to three days. 3.19 Inhalation of arsenic dusts may cause acute pulmonary oedema, restlessness, dyspnoea, cyanosis, cough with sputum and rales. 3.20 Following acute exposure to arsenicals, exfoliative dermatitis and peripheral neuritis may occur. Chromium 3.21 Acute poisoning from ingestion of chromium and its salts may cause dizziness, intense thirst, abdominal pain, shock and reduction in urinary output and vomiting. Prolonged skin exposures might cause ulceration of the skin. 3.22 Acute exposures to dry chromium salts may cause severe irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs. This is further reason for recommending handling the chemicals in liquid or paste form in the treatment plant. Long Term Effects Arsenic 3.23 Chronic arsenic poisoning, whether through ingestion or inhalation, may be manifested by many symptoms. Digestive disturbances such as nausea, cramps, constipation or diarrhoea with associated weight loss are likely, and liver damage may also occur. Disturbances of the kidneys, the nervous system and of the blood, such as anaemia, are not infrequent. Arsenic may cause a variety of skin abnormalities, including itching and pigmentation. These effects may result from dermal exposures or from systemic distribution. Chronic dermatitis commences with patchy erythema and may lead to papular or vesicular eruptions. Optic and peripheral neuritis may also develop with prolonged exposure. Aplastic anaemia has also been observed. 3.24 Chronic exposures to dusts or mists containing arsenic may cause irritation of the nose and pharynx, leading to acute or chronic rhinitis. Prolonged exposures may occasionally lead to perforation of the nasal septum. Chromium 3.25 Chronic exposures to dusts or mists containing chromium salts may cause an ulceration and perforation of the nasal septum. Respiratory irritation may occur with symptoms resembling asthma. Other symptoms may include conjunctivitis, anorexia, nausea, gastritis, duodenal ulcers and colitis. Liver damage may also occur. 24 3.26 Chronic skin exposures may lead to a skin rash, and entry of chromium salts into open wounds may cause chrome ulcers. Copper 3.27 Chronic exposures to dusts or mists containing copper may cause irritation of the eyes, nose and respiratory tract, dermatitis and perforation of the nasal septum. MEDICAL INFORMATION 3.28 The following sub-sections should be read in conjunction with paragraphs 1.5 through 1.10 of this guidance note. In particular, paragraph 1.8 provides additional information relating to the treatment of persons who have ingested a timber preservative dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. Medical Surveillance 3.29 No regular medical surveillance is necessary for persons handling timber treated with copper chrome arsenic that has dried. Regular medical surveillance for skin and systemic effects should be carried out on all staff who work in treatment plants and on those handling wet treated timber. The establishment of individual base line levels is considered desirable. A skin examination should be carried out with any abnormalities noted and acted on as necessary. A urine sample should be taken for determination of urinary arsenic and chromium levels. Test 3.30 A urine sample taken over twenty-four hours should be used for analysis. It should be collected in a scrupulously clean two-litre container (glass or plastic) and should be analysed for arsenic and chromium. NOTE: Absorption of arsenic compounds is reflected in urine within twenty-four hours. However, the clearance of arsenic from the body is very rapid and urine concentrations are very time-dependent. Seafood provides an additional source of arsenic which may cause elevated arsenic levels for one to two days. Results 3.31 Levels in excess of 2 umol/L (micromoles per litre) (as arsenic) indicate excessive exposure (in the absence of other sources). Chromium levels in excess of 0.58 umol/L are indicative of excessive exposure. Personnel who have been identified as having levels above these limits should discontinue working in the area. Fortnightly examinations should be undertaken until tests indicate a satisfactory result. Medical Management 9.1 . . In cases of poisoning by recently ingested arsenicals (less than six hours): intubate stomach, aspirate and lavage with three litres of isotonic saline (tap water for children). Use all available precautions to avoid aspiration of vomitus; and after lavage, administer activated charcoal (adult: 50-100 g; child: 15-30 g) in a slurry with every 1g of activated charcoal diluted with water to at least 8 mL. A cathartic, such as sorbitol, should be used in the slurry. Alternatively, magnesium or sodium sulphate (adult: 30 g; child: 250 mg/kg) should be given subsequently. 25 3.33 Chelation therapy. On evidence of significant excessive absorption, promptly (within four hours) administer dimercaprol (BAL) intramuscularly as a 10 per cent solution in vegetable oil. Recommended dosage is as follows: _______________________________________________________ Day 1-2 Day 3 Thence to Day 10 _______________________________________________________ Mild 2.5 mg/kg 2.5 mg/kg 2.5 mg/kg Poisoning 6-hourly 12-hourly daily Severe 3.0 mg/kg 3.0 mg/kg 3.0 mg/kg Poisoning 4-hourly 6-hourly 12-hourly _______________________________________________________ 3.34 Other supportive measures include treatment of shock, pulmonary oedema, dehydration, anuria and liver damage. 3.35 If arsenicals were ingested more than forty-eight hours before presentation, if absorption is excessive or exposure is chronic, initial treatment should be limited to chelation therapy supportive measures, plus nutritional supplements to restore metabolic functions as promptly as possible. Administer intravenous electrolyte and glucose solution to maintain hydration and accelerate toxicant excretion. 26 4. PENTACHLOROPHENOL DESCRIPTION 4.1 Technical grade pentachlorophenol is a light brown solid with a distinctive odour. In timber preservatives it is dissolved in an oil base which may range from furnace oil to a light petroleum solvent. Sodium pentachlorophenate is usually available as a 50 per cent aqueous solution. 4.2 Timber treated with furnace oil is visually recognisable but it is not possible to recognise visually all treatments incorporating pentachlorophenol. Australian Standard AS 1605 gives methods for determination of the presence of pentachlorophenol in treated timber13. 4.3 USES 4.4 Pentachlorophenol is used as a preservative against timber-destroying fungi and sapstain moulds. It also has an effect against some timber-boring insects and termites. EXPOSURE STANDARD 4.5 The National Commission's proposed exposure standard8 for pentachlorophenol is 0.5 mg/m3. absorption of pentachlorophenol is a significant route of exposure. FIRST AID Ingestion 4.6 Contact a doctor or a poisons information centre. Skin Common names are PCP and Penta. Appendix B has a cross-referenced list of trade names and synonyms. Skin Contact 4.7 If pentachlorophenol or liquids containing pentachlorophenol get on the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin using soap or mild detergent and water. If the pentachlorophenol or liquids containing pentachlorophenol penetrate clothing, remove it immediately and wash the skin thoroughly using soap and water. If irritation or other effects consistent with skin absorption are present after washing, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Eye Contact 4.8 If pentachlorophenol or liquids containing pentachlorophenol get into the eyes, hold the lids apart and gently flush eyes with large amounts of water. Contact lenses should be removed before flushing. If irritation or pain persists after fifteen minutes of eye irrigation, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Inhalation 4.9 Remove patient to fresh air. Establish airway and maintain respiration. 27 HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Overall Health Assessment 4.10 Contamination of commercial pentachlorophenol with chloro-dibenzodioxins and dibenzofurans is a cause for concern. The National Health and Medical Research Council addressed this issue at its 94th Session19 in October 1982 and noted that `hexachlorodibenzodioxin and other higher chlorodioxins and dibenzofurans are known contaminants of pentachlorophenol and that hexachlorodibenzodioxin has been reported to cause cancer and adverse effects on reproduction in animals'. As the present knowledge of carcinogens is incomplete, the Council has recommended that occupational exposure to pentachlorophenol should be `reduced to the lowest technically feasible level' NOTE: Since that time, the dioxins and dibenzofurans content of pentachlorophenol has been reduced to an undetectable level. 4.11 The most important effect of pentachlorophenol inhalation is acute poisoning centring on the circulatory system. Physiological injury is mainly muscular, with heart failure. Severe effects, including fatalities, have been reported. The proposed exposure standard of 0.5 mg/m3 is believed to be low enough to prevent vascular injury20. 4.12 The International Agency for Research on Cancer18 reviewed the carcinogenicity of pentachlorophenol and noted that `Pentachlorophenol has been mentioned specifically only in reports of two cases of Hodgkin's disease and seven cases of leukaemia in individuals who used it as a wood preservative or handled timber to which it had been applied and of two cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the skin in men employed in its manufacture. Generic reference to chlorophenols (which probably included pentachlorophenol) has also been made in three casecontrol studies which showed relative risks of 6.6 and 3.3 for soft-tissue sarcomas and of 7.6 (heavy exposure) and 2.2 (light exposure) for lymphomas in association with exposure to chlorophenols. In none of these studies could exposure to pentachlorophenol be distinguished from exposure to dioxins.' The Agency has concluded that there is inadequate evidence to show that pentachlorophenol is carcinogenic to humans. Absorption 4.13 Pentachlorophenol may be absorbed through the skin and dust and sprays may be inhaled. Dust generated when cutting treated timber may be inhaled. Accidental ingestion is unlikely unless poor hygiene, work practices or a poorly designed work system allow it. Short Term Effects 4.14 Exposure to pentachlorophenol may cause irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract. Bronchitis has been reported at dust or mist concentrations of 1.0 mg/m3. Concentrations as low as 0.3 mg/m3 may cause irritation. 4.15 Skin contact may lead to skin irritation. A 10 per cent solution may cause irritation after a single brief exposure whereas prolonged or repeated contact with a 1 per cent solution would be required to produce the same result. A solution of 0.1 per cent concentration may lead to adverse systemic effects. 4.16 Systemic effects from either a large exposure or repeated smaller exposures include weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, chest pain, excessive sweating, headaches and dizziness. In fatal cases, the temperature is often very high and death may occur as early as three hours after the onset of symptoms. The risk of serious consequences is greater in hot weather. Persons with significantly impaired liver or kidney functions are more susceptible to poisoning from this chemical. 28 Long Term Effects 4.17 Repeated exposure to pentachlorophenol may cause an acne-like skin rash and liver and/or kidney damage. Deaths have occurred among agricultural workers involved in crop and herbicidal spray operations where 1.5 to 2 per cent pentachlorophenol was used without adequate control measures. MEDICAL INFORMATION 4.18 The following sub-sections should be read in conjunction with paragraphs 1.5 through 1.10 of this guidance note. In particular, paragraph 1.8 provides additional information relating to the treatment of persons who have ingested a timber preservative dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. Medical Surveillance 4.19 Persons who are suspected of absorbing this chemical or being injured or poisoned by it should immediately avoid all further contact. Tests should be carried out as soon as practicable to determine the level of exposure. These tests should include examination of the skin (as for creosote), a blood profile and urinalysis as described below. Test 4.20 50 ml of urine taken from a twenty-four hour sample should be taken, but if this is not possible, spot samples can give a reasonable estimate. It should be collected in a scrupulously clean (preferably glass) container. NOTE: It should be recognised that pentachlorophenol is sometimes used in combination with other chemicals, especially other chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides, for treatment of timber. Tests for these should also be made when appropriate. Results 4.21 Levels in excess of 3.8 umol/L pentachlorophenol indicate excessive exposure. commonly found in the population.) (Lower levels are 4.22 Personnel who have been identified as having levels above the prescribed limits should discontinue working with the pesticide and should be examined fortnightly until the tests indicate a satisfactory result. Medical Management 4.23 Persons subjected to the potential for exposure to this chemical should be tested annually. 4.24 If an aqueous solution of 5 per cent or less has been ingested in sufficient quantity to produce toxicity, vomiting should be induced with Ipecac syrup unless contra indications exist. If solutions stronger than 5 per cent have been ingested (or less than 5 per cent and the patient is comatose, convulsing or has lost the gag reflex), cautious gastric lavage should be performed by a medical practitioner after protecting the airway by endotracheal intubation. Subsequently, the following procedures should be observed: (a) (b) Administer activated charcoal (adult: 60 to 100 g; child 30 to 60 g). Administer a saline cathartic: magnesium or sodium sulphate (adult: 30 g; child: 250 mg/kg); and Monitor for respiratory distress: if a cough or difficulty in breathing develops, evaluate for respiratory tract irritation, bronchitis and pneumonitis. As pentachlorophenol is a metabolic stimulant, monitor temperature, blood, liver and renal function. 29 5. CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES DESCRIPTION 5.1 A number of organochlorine preservatives are used for the treatment of timber. These include the chlorinated cyclodiene substances such as aldrin, dieldrin, chlordane and heptachlor. All these materials are commercially available as emulsifiable concentrates or liquid concentrates in a solvent and may be used separately or in combination with other pesticides. A brief description of each material follows: . . . . technical aldrin is a tan to dark brown solid with a mild chemical odour; technical dieldrin is a buff to light brown solid with a mild chemical odour; technical chlordane is a thick amber liquid with a characteristic chlorine-like odour; and technical heptachlor is a light tan, waxy solid with a camphor-like odour. Other chlorinated hydrocarbons include mirex, which is used as a termite bait. 5.2 Unless the treatment fluid incorporates a colouring agent, it is not possible visually to recognise timber treated with chlorinated hydrocarbons. Detection may be made by colorimetric tests or chemical analysis. 5.3 Common names are aldrin, dieldrin, chlordane and heptachlor. Appendix B has a cross-referenced list of trade names and synonyms. USES 5.4 The chlorinated cyclodiene pesticides are used for both the preventive and curative treatment of timber against insect infestation, in particular, against termites and lyctid and anobiid borers. Aldrin, chlordane and heptachlor are used for the treatment of timber against termites. Chlordane and dieldrin are used to treat Argentine ant and termite infestation, and dieldrin is used to treat borer infestation. Dieldrin and chlordane are not approved for household or interior uses. Mirex and endrin are not approved as timber preservatives. EXPOSURE STANDARD 5.5 The National Commission has proposed exposure standards8 for four chlorinated cyclodiene compounds. Skin absorption can be a major route of exposure to these substances. Proposed Exposure Standards 5.6 Aldrin Dieldrin Chlordane Heptachlor 5.7 0.25 mg/m3 0.25 mg/m3 0.5 mg/m3 0.5 mg/m3 Exposure standards should not be used to assess relative toxicities. 30 FIRST AID Ingestion 5.8 Contact a doctor or a poisons information centre. Skin Contact 5.9 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get on the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin using soap or mild detergent and water. If these liquids penetrate clothing, remove immediately and wash the skin thoroughly using soap and water. If irritation or other effects consistent with skin absorption are present after washing, get medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Eye Contact 5.10 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get into the eyes, hold the lids apart and gently flush eyes with large amounts of water. Contact lenses should be removed before flushing. If irritation or pain persists after fifteen minutes of eye irrigation, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Inhalation 5.11 Remove exposed worker to fresh air. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Overall Health Assessment 5.12 Toxicity varies greatly with route and rate of exposure. The acute hazard potential may be ranked approximately as follows, from highest to lowest: dieldrin/aldrin, heptachlor and chlordane21. Absorption 5.13 All the chlorinated cyclodienes are readily absorbed through the skin and this is the main route of absorption. The inhalation of sprays or dust generated when cutting treated timber will also contribute to exposure. Aldrin is not stored in body fat as such but is metabolised to dieldrin which can be stored in the fat. Additionally such stored preservatives may contribute to the blood levels for some time after the exposure has ceased. 5.14 Tests for solvent exposure are unnecessary in view of the relative toxicities of the chlorinated cyclodienes and the solvents used to dilute them. Thus, if an operator has not absorbed excessive levels of the active reagent,it is unlikely that the operator would have absorbed excessive amounts of the solvent used. Short Term Effects 5.15 The chlorinated cyclodienes are all central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. Symptoms of exposure are similar in all cases. The early symptoms are restlessness, irritability and hyperexcitability. These may be followed by headache, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, blurred vision, unconsciousness, insomnia, lack of appetite, loss of memory, albuminuria, haematuria and, in some cases, confusion. 31 Long Term Effects 5.16 Animal studies indicate that liver damage may result from both acute exposures and prolonged chronic exposures to all the chlorinated cyclodiene pesticides. Kidney damage has also been reported for chlordane and heptachlor in animals. The International Agency for Research on Cancer concludes that there is inadequate evidence of carcinogenicity to humans from aldrin, dieldrin, heptachlor and chlordane, and only limited evidence of carcinogenicity in animals18. MEDICAL INFORMATION 5.17 The following sub-sections should be read in conjunction with paragraphs 1.5 through 1.10 of this guidance note. In particular, paragraph 1.8 provides additional information relating to the treatment of persons who have ingested a timber preservative dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. Medical Surveillance 5.18 Persons subjected to the potential for exposure to these chemicals should have a medical examination annually, or more frequently if there is any abnormality, and a six-monthly blood test. 5.19 Persons who are suspected of absorbing these chemicals or being injured or poisoned by them should immediately avoid all further contact until a clearance has been given by the appropriate State or Territory health authority. Tests should be carried out as soon as practicable to determine the level of exposure. 5.20 Medical examination should primarily be of the kidneys, liver and nervous system. The concentration of chlorinated hydrocarbons in blood should be determined at intervals. Test 5.21 A 10 mL venous blood sample should be taken, using glass `Sterimed' or `Pharmaplast' syringes and sent in glass tubes to an approved laboratory. The tubes must contain 0.5 g of sodium or lithium heparin and be sealed with a foil-lined stopper. For chlordane-exposed persons, a 25 to 50 mL urine sample should be taken for analysis in addition to the blood samples. It should be collected in a scrupulously clean (preferably glass) container. NOTE: It should be recognised that these chemicals are sometimes used in combination with each other and also with other chemicals for treatment of timber. Tests for these and for solvent exposure should also be made when appropriate. Result 5.22 Blood levels in excess of those shown in the table below indicate excessive exposure (lower levels are commonly found in the population): Aldrin as HEOD* Dieldrin as HEOD* Chlordane (as Heptachlor epoxide) Heptachlor (as Heptachlor epoxide) 50 mg/L 50 mg/L 50 mg/L 50 mg/L (*Note : HEOD is the abbreviation for Hexachloroepoxyoctahydro-endo,exo-Dimethanonaphthalene) 32 5.23 It should be noted that aldrin is converted metabolically to dieldrin. Personnel who have been identified as having levels above the prescribed limits should discontinue working with these pesticides and should be examined at the intervals indicated below until the tests indicate a satisfactory result. Aldrin monthly Dieldrin monthly Chlordane monthly Heptachlor monthly Medical Management 5.24 Administer activated charcoal (adult: 60 to 100 g; child: 30 to 60 g). Administer a saline cathartic: magnesium or sodium sulphate (adult: 30 g; child: 250 mg/kg). 5.25 5.26 5.27 Treat seizures with intravenous diazepam. Do not administer adrenergic amines or atropine. Dialysis or exchange transfusion have not proved effective. 5.28 Monitor for respiratory distress. If cough or breathing difficulty develops, evaluate for respiratory tract irritation, bronchitis and pneumonia. If necessary, treat with sedation and with calcium gluconate if muscular cramps are present. Thereafter provide a diet rich in calcium, carbohydrates and vitamins. 33 6. BORON COMPOUNDS DESCRIPTION 6.1 Boric acid is colourless and odourless, with forms ranging from transparent crystals to white granules or powder. Borax is also odourless and may be in the form of crystals, granules or crystalline powder varying from white to grey with a vitreous or dull lustre. Crystals may become coated with a white powder following exposure to air. 6.2 Common names are borax, boric acid and Polybor. Appendix B has a cross-referenced list of trade names and synonyms. USES 6.3 Boron compounds are widely used as an immunising agent to protect sapwood from attack by the lyctid and anobiid beetles. Timber is either dipped in open tanks or pressure impregnated. 6.4 Boron compounds may become available as a pre-treated bandage designed to be wrapped around poles. 6.5 Copper fluoroborate systems are used for ground line treatment for transmission poles and remedial treatment for decay in timber building components such as window sills. EXPOSURE STANDARD 6.6 The National Commission has proposed exposure standards8 for these substances. Proposed Exposure Standards 6.7 Copper salts, dusts and mists, as Cu Borates, tetra, sodium salts anhydrous decahydrate (Borax) pentahydrate 1 mg/m3 1 mg/m3 5 mg/m3 1 mg/m3 6.8 For borates, the exposure standards are designed to prevent acute irritant effects. FIRST AID Ingestion 6.9 Contact a doctor or a poisons information centre. Skin Contact 6.10 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get on the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin using soap and water. If these liquids penetrate clothing, remove immediately and wash the skin thoroughly using soap and water. If irritation or other effects consistent with skin absorption are present after washing, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. 34 Eye Contact 6.11 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get into the eyes, hold the lids apart and gently flush eyes with large amounts of water. Contact lenses should be removed before flushing. If irritation or pain persists after fifteen minutes of eye irrigation, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Inhalation 6.12 Remove exposed worker to fresh air. Establish airway and maintain respiration. respiratory resuscitation measures after washing the skin around mouth and nose. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Overall Health Assessment 6.13 Boric acid and borax are moderately toxic with oral lethal doses of 3g/kg and 5g/kg body weight respectively. Absorption 6.14 No major toxicological distinctions between boric acid and its salts are recognised in humans. Both boric acid and borax may enter the body by absorption from the gastrointestinal tract or through mucous membranes. Although absorption occurs through undamaged skin, it is slower, and toxic effects are less likely. Absorption through damaged skin is rapid and complete. Short Term Effects 6.15 Poisoning is characterised by nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headache, restlessness and weakness. Boric acid may produce cyanosis, convulsions and coma. In severe poisoning with borax, oliguria, anuria and tubular necrosis may occur along with lethargy, twitching of facial muscles and extremities, and cyanosis. Borax may be irritating to the eyes and mucous membranes. Long Term Effects 6.16 Chronic intoxication with boric acid may give rise to anorexia, loss of strength, confusion and alopecia. A rash may develop, followed by skin shedding in the area of the rash. MEDICAL INFORMATION 6.17 The following sub-sections should be read in conjunction with paragraphs 1.5 through 1.10 of this guidance note. In particular, paragraph 1.8 provides additional information relating to the treatment of persons who have ingested a timber preservative dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. Medical Surveillance 6.18 Persons subjected to the potential for exposure to these pesticides should be tested annually to ensure that they have not been excessively exposed. Emphasis should be placed on checking for signs of kidney damage. There is also some evidence that there may be increased urinary riboflavin excretion following ingestion of boric acid. Medical Management 6.19 Treatment is purely symptomatic. Plasma volume should be maintained by infusion of copious amounts of appropriate fluids. In cases of severe poisoning, treatment consists of gastric lavage with warm tap water, followed by saline catharsis with sodium sulphate. Convulsions may be treated with a short-acting sedative. Haemodialysis, dialysis, peritoneal dialysis and exchange transfusion have all proven successful 22; the last, especially so if it has been performed soon after exposure. Diuresis may be effective depending upon renal ability to excrete substance. If necessary, use 35 7. TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE DESCRIPTION 7.1 When tributyltin oxide is dissolved in light organic solvents at concentrations of approximately 1 per cent by weight, it is a colourless to pale yellow liquid with a weak odour. 7.2 USES 7.3 It is a fungicide, insecticide and marine biocide normally carried in a light organic solvent and used for pressure impregnation and surface application of timber products. EXPOSURE STANDARD 7.4 The exposure standard8 proposed by the National Commission for organo-tin compounds (which includes tributyltin oxide) is 0.1 mg/m3 (as Sn). Skin absorption of tributyltin oxide can be a significant route of entry. FIRST AID Ingestion 7.5 Contact a doctor or a poisons information centre. The common name is TBTO. Appendix B has a cross-referenced list of trade names and synonyms. Skin Contact 7.6 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get on the skin, it is essential to wash the contaminated skin immediately using soap or mild detergent and water. If these liquids penetrate clothing, remove immediately and wash the skin thoroughly using soap and water. If irritation or other effects consistent with skin absorption are present after washing, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Eye Contact 7.7 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get into the eyes, hold the lids apart and gently flush eyes with large amounts of water. Contact lenses should be removed before flushing. If irritation or pain persists after fifteen minutes of eye irrigation, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Inhalation 7.8 Remove exposed worker to fresh air. Establish airway and maintain respiration. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Overall Health Assessment 7.9 In experimental animals the LD50 has been shown to be in the range of 100 to 200 mg/kg body weight. 7.10 Tributyltin oxide is degraded by ultraviolet light and bacteria to the less toxic dibutyl and monobutyl analogues. 36 Absorption 7.11 Organo-tin compounds can affect the body if they are inhaled or if they come in contact with the eyes or skin. They are absorbed through intact skin. Short Term Effects 7.12 Short term exposure causes skin effects ranging from irritation to severe burn. Typical organo-tin burns do not occur until after the compound has been on the skin for a few minutes. The onset of the burn reaction may be delayed by up to two to three hours and continue to develop up to the next eight hours. Diffuse burns may occur through contact with contaminated clothing. 7.13 7.14 Eye contact may result in serious permanent injury to the eyes. Fumes or vapours containing TBTO may cause sore throats and coughs for several hours after exposure. Long Term Effects 7.15 Repeated exposure may cause the following: urinary retention, increased intracranial pressure and chapping of the skin. In animals, prolonged exposure causes hepatic necrosis and haemolysis23. MEDICAL INFORMATION 7.16 The following sub-section should be read in conjunction with paragraphs 1.5 through 1.10 of this guidance note. In particular, paragraph 1.8 provides additional information relating to the treatment of persons who have ingested a timber preservative dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. Medical Surveillance 7.17 The following annual tests are recommended for those people who may be subjected to the potential for exposure to organo-tin compounds23: . . eyes should be examined for such abnormalities as glaucoma and choked disc; check general visual acuity. Evidence indicating past or present increased intracranial pressure should be evaluated; and skin should be examined for evidence of chronic dermatitis. 37 8. NAPHTHENATES DESCRIPTION 8.1 Naphthenic acids are derived from certain fractions obtained during the distillation of crude oil. They are assigned an acid value (usually in the range of 120 to 260) which is defined as the quantity of potassium hydroxide in milligrams required to neutralise one gram of product. For preservative purposes, the higher acid value naphthenic acids (200-220) are usually used. 8.2 Copper naphthenate is a green-blue solid. For preservative purposes it is normally supplied as a solution in white spirit, having a guaranteed metal content. 8.3 Zinc naphthenate is a viscous amber liquid. 8.4 The common name is copper naphthenate or CN. Appendix B has a cross-referenced list of trade names and synonyms. USES 8.5 Naphthenates are used as wood preservatives in double-vacuum impregnation or by surface application by brush. Copper naphthenates are used in heavier oils for ground line maintenance of poles and for the protection of heavy wooden structures. EXPOSURE STANDARD 8.6 The National Commission has proposed an exposure standard8 for these compounds. Proposed Exposure Standard 8.7 Copper salts, dusts and mists, as Cu 1 mg/m3 FIRST AID Ingestion 8.8 Contact a doctor or a poisons information centre. Skin Contact 8.9 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get on the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin using soap or mild detergent and water. If these liquids penetrate clothing, remove immediately and wash the skin thoroughly using soap and water. If irritation or other effects consistent with skin absorption are present after washing, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Eye Contact 8.10 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get into the eyes, hold the lids apart and gently flush eyes with large amounts of water. Contact lenses should be removed before flushing. If irritation or pain persists after fifteen minutes of eye irrigation, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. 38 HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Overall Health Assessment 8.11 For practical purposes, naphthenates are non-toxic; oral toxicity in the rat is greater than 6 g/kg. Absorption 8.12 Ingestion of naphthenates is unlikely, due to their unpleasant taste. Absorption is limited by lack of water solubility but some skin absorption may occur. Short Term Effects 8.13 Naphthenates may cause skin irritation which should stop with cessation of exposure. Inhalation of the solvent vapour may cause headache and, in severe cases, inco-ordination. Ingestion causes gastrointestinal irritation. Long Term Effects 8.14 Prolonged contact may cause skin irritation. prolonged industrial usage of petroleum distillates. MEDICAL INFORMATION 8.15 The following sub-section should be read in conjunction with paragraphs 1.5 through 1.10 of this guidance note. In particular, paragraph 1.8 provides additional information relating to the treatment of persons who have ingested a timber preservative dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. Medical Surveillance 8.16 There are no special requirements for medical surveillance. No chronic systemic effects have been reported from 39 9. COPPER QUINOLINOLATE DESCRIPTION 9.1 Copper quinolinolate is a greenish-yellow crystalline powder. The technical grade is usually tan in colour and insoluble in water, ethanol and common organic solvents. It is non-volatile and may have a slightly phenolic odour. Copper quinolinolate is generally used in a solubilised form by reaction with nickel 2-ethylhexoate. It is available in liquid concentrates containing 0.25 to 10 per cent, as pastes containing 5 to 30 per cent, as solids containing 5 to 10 per cent and as ready-to-use liquids containing 0.25 to 1.5 per cent. 9.2 The common name is copper 8 or Cu8. Appendix B has a cross- referenced list of trade names and synonyms. USES 9.3Copper 8-quinolinolate is a fungicide used in the treatment of textiles, as an ingredient of paints, in timber and paper preservation and in agriculture. EXPOSURE STANDARD 9.4 The National Commission has proposed exposure standards8 for some of the materials used in this preparation. Proposed Exposure Standards 9.5 Copper salts, dusts and mists, as Cu Nickel, insoluble compounds, as Ni 1.0 mg/m3 1.0 mg/m3 FIRST AID Ingestion 9.6 Contact a doctor or a poisons information centre. Skin Contact 9.7 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get on the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin using soap or mild detergent and water. If these liquids penetrate clothing, remove immediately and wash the skin thoroughly using soap and water. If irritation or other effects consistent with skin absorption are present after washing, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Eye Contact 9.8 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get into the eyes, hold the lids apart and gently flush eyes with large amounts of water. Contact lenses should be removed before flushing. If irritation or pain persists after fifteen minutes of eye irrigation, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Inhalation 9.9 Remove exposed worker to fresh air. Establish airway and maintain respiration. 40 HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Overall Health Assessment 9.10 No evaluation of the carcinogenicity of this compound can be made on the basis of available animal data7. No human case reports or epidemiological studies are available. Absorption 9.11 Copper quinolinolate can be absorbed through inhalation. Skin absorption has not been reported. Short Term Effects 9.12 When this compound has been used in the short term treatment of dysentery, humans have received oral doses of 3 g in solution 4 times daily without apparent ill-effect. Long Term Effects 9.13 The effects of prolonged exposure are not known. MEDICAL INFORMATION 9.14 The following sub-section should be read in conjunction with paragraphs 1.5 through 1.10 of this guidance note. In particular, paragraph 1.8 provides additional information relating to the treatment of persons who have ingested a timber preservative dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. Medical Surveillance 9.15 There are no special requirements for medical surveillance. 41 10. PYRETHROIDS DESCRIPTION 10.1 Pyrethroids are a class of synthetic insecticides based upon the chemistry of extracts of naturally occurring pyrethrins. Appearance varies with the type and formulation. An example is technical Permethrin 25:75 which is a yellow to brown liquid with a mild aromatic odour, which on crystallisation forms an off-white solid. 10.2 Some commonly used pyrethroids are Bioresmethrin, Deltamethrin, Permethrin and Tetramethrin. Appendix B has a cross-referenced list of trade names and synonyms. USES 10.3 Pyrethroids are used as a spray or dip on timber for control of insects, as well as being incorporated into various particle boards as a termite treatment. EXPOSURE STANDARD 10.4 10.5 The National Commission has proposed an exposure standard8 of 5 mg/m3 for pyrethrum (or pyrethrins). No exposure standard has been proposed for any specific pyrethroid insecticide. FIRST AID Ingestion 10.6 Contact a doctor or poisons information centre. Skin Contact 10.7 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get on the skin, immediately wash the contaminated skin using soap or mild detergent and water. If these liquids penetrate clothing, remove immediately and wash the skin thoroughly using soap and water. If irritation or other effects consistent with skin absorption are present after washing, seek medical attention. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Eye Contact 10.8 If dust or liquids containing these preservatives get into the eyes, hold the lids apart and gently flush eyes with large amounts of water. Contact lenses should be removed before flushing. If irritation or pain persists after fifteen minutes of eye irrigation, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Report exposure to supervisor and health and safety representative. Inhalation 10.9 Remove exposed worker to fresh air. Establish airways and maintain respiration. 42 HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION Overall Health Assessment 10.10 For practical purposes, pyrethroids are of low toxicity, but formulation type and chemistry should be assessed. Technical grade Permethrin 25:75 in water suspension has an animal LD50 figure ranging from 1.5 to 20 g/kg body weight, but when emulsified the figure is 0.3 g/kg. Absorption 10.11 The skin and especially the lungs are regarded as being the most likely routes of absorption. Short Term Effects 10.12 Acute toxic effects have not been reported in humans, but in animals treated with high dosage, acute effects include irritation, convulsions and muscular fibrillation with death from respiratory and circulatory failure. Long Term Effects 10.13 No chronic effects have been reported following widespread use and human exposure in public health and veterinary applications, crop and vegetable protection, and the protection of stored products against insects. MEDICAL INFORMATION 10.14 The following sub-section should be read in conjunction with paragraphs 1.5 through 1.10 of this guidance note. In particular, paragraph 1.8 provides additional information relating to the treatment of persons who have ingested a timber preservative dissolved in a hydrocarbon solvent. 10.15 For cases of accidental exposure, treat symptomatically. Dermal irritation can be prevented by using barrier creams, especially on the face and arms, or relieved by use of Vitamin E fortified sunburn cream or local anaesthetic. Medical Surveillance 10.16 There are no special requirements for medical surveillance. 43 44 APPENDIX A EXPOSURE STANDARDS The proposed exposure standards listed in this document are drawn from the National Occupational Health and Safety Commission's Draft Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the Occupational Environment8. These standards are current at the time of printing but users of this document should check that they have not been subsequently amended. Exposure standards represent airborne concentrations of individual chemical substances which according to current knowledge should neither impair the health of, nor cause undue discomfort to, nearly all workers. Additionally, the exposure standards are believed to guard against narcosis or irritation which could precipitate industrial accidents. Exposure standards are generally expressed as a time-weighted average (TWA) concentration of that substance over an eight-hour working shift, and apply to an eight-hour day, for a five-day working week. Where unusual work patterns, such as overtime, are adopted, caution should be exercised in the application of exposure standards. Exposure standards are intended only for use as a guide in the control of potential health hazards. These standards are not a relative index of toxicity. They should not be used to determine whether particular environments are safe or dangerous, as it is always a good practice to reduce concentrations of all atmospheric contaminants to levels as low as reasonably practicable. Exposure standards have no legal status unless they are specifically incorporated into Commonwealth, State or Territory legislation. For information for a given substance, the latest relevant documentation should be consulted (as recommended in the draft exposure standards document8). Special consideration needs to be given to the application of exposure standards to the health hazards which may be associated with exposure to mixtures of two or more substances, for example, a preservative compound in an organic solvent base. In the absence of information to the contrary, the effects of different hazards should be considered to be cumulative if they act upon the same target organ system. That is, if the sum of the partial exposures, calculated as : C1 C2 — + — L1 L2 Cn .+….. + — Ln where C1,C2…..Cn are the average measured airborne concentrations of the particular substances and L1,L2......Ln are the appropriate exposure standards for the individual substances, exceeds one, then the exposure standard of the airborne mixture has been exceeded. The only exception to this is where it can be shown that the effects of different hazards are strictly independent. A more detailed discussion of these principles can be found in Chapter 16 of the Draft Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the Occupational Environment8. The use of exposure standards for potentially carcinogenic substances should act only as a useful guide to the efficiency of engineering controls and the work practices needed to reduce worker exposure. However, because of the incompleteness of knowledge on carcinogens, it is at present not possible to estimate reliably the risk posed by some carcinogenic substances. Therefore compliance with these exposure standards should not preclude efforts to further reduce worker exposure. 45 APPENDIX B LIST OF SYNONYMS AND TRADE NAMES [8001-58-9] [10380-28-6] 2,3,4,5,6-pentachlorophenol 3 chlorochlordene 8-hydroxyquinoline copper complex Agroceres Akdrub Aldrex Aldrin Aldrite Aldrosol Aluit Aspon-chlordane Belt Basilit BFB Bioquin 1 Bioresmethrin Blue 7 borax boric acid bis(8-oxyquinoline) copper brick oil CCA CD 68 Celcure cellu-quin Chlor kil Chlordane Chloridan Chlorodane chlorophen coal tar coal tar creosote coal tar oil Compound 118 Compound 269 Compound 497 Copas copper (2+) oxinate copper 8-hydroxyquinolate copper 8-hydroxyquinolinate copper 8-hydroxyquiniline copper 8-quinolate copper 8-quinolinolate copper 8-quinolinol copper hydroxyquinolinate copper naphthenate copper oxinate copper oxine copper oxyquinolate copper oxyquinoline copper quinolate copper quinolinolate copper-8 see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see CREOSOTE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE PENTACHLOROPHENOL CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES COPPER QUINOLINOLATE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES BORON COMPOUNDS COPPER QUINOLINOLATE PYRETHROIDS BORON COMPOUNDS BORON COMPOUNDS BORON COMPOUNDS COPPER QUINOLINOLATE CREOSOTE COPPER CHROME ARSENIC CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES COPPER CHROME ARSENIC COPPER QUINOLINOLATE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES PENTACHLOROPHENOL CREOSOTE CREOSOTE CREOSOTE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES COPPER CHROME ARSENIC COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE NAPHTHENATES COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPE QUINOLINOLATE 46 Corodane Cortilan-neu creosote from coal tar creosote oil creosotum cresylic creosote cryptogil 01 cunilate cunilate 2472 cupric 8-hydroxyquinolate cupric 8-quinolinolate Cuprinol Green WR Cuprinol Joinery Clear WR dead oil Deltamethrin Dichlorochlordene Dieldrex Dieldrin Dieldrite dioquin dokirin Dowchlor Dowicide 7 Dowicide EC-7 Dowicide G Drinox Drinox H-34 Durotox E3314 EN 57 Endrex Endricol ENT 9,932 ENT 15,152 ENT 15,949 ENT 16,225 ENT 17,251 ENT 25,552-x EP 30 Formula 7 (Koppers) fruitdo Fungifen H-34 HCS 3260 heavy oil HEOD Heptachlor heptachlorodihydrocyclopentadiene CYCLODIENES Heptagram Heptamul Hexadrin HHDN Illoxol Koppers CCA Koppers CN Koppers XJ Kypchlor Lauxtol Lauxtol A liquid pitch oil see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CREOSOTE CREOSOTE CREOSOTE CREOSOTE PENTACHLOROPHENOL COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE NAPHTHENATES TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE CREOSOTE PYRETHROIDS CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHL ORINATED CYCLODIENES COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER QUINOLINOLATE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES PENTACHLOROPHENOL CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES PENTACHLOROPHENOL BORON COMPOUNDS COPPER QUINOLINOLATE PENTACHLOROPHENOL CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CREOSOTE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES HLORINATED CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES COPPER CHROME ARSENIC NAPHTHENATES TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL CREOSOTE 47 Liroprem M 140 M 410 Mendrin milmer multisalt naphthalene oil Neobor NCI-C00044 NCI-C00099 NCI-C00124 NCI-C00157 NCI-C00180 NCI-C54933 NCI-C55378 NCI-C56655 Niran Octa-klor Octachlor Octachlorodihydrodicyclopentadiene Octalene Octalox Oktanex Oktaterr Ortho-klor oxime copper Pabco Panorom D-31 PCP Penchlorol Penta Penta-Kil pentabrite chem-tol Pentacon Pentasol Penwar Peratox Perigan Permacide Permagard Permapine Permasan Permatox DP-2 Permatox Penta Permethrin Permethrin 25:75 Technical Permite Pixalbol Polybor Priltox Protim WR80 Protim Timber Life Pyrethrins quinondo Quintox Radex Rhodiachlor Santobrite Santophen see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see PENTACHLOROPHENOL CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES COPPER QUINOLINOLATE COPPER CHROME ARSENIC CREOSOTE BORON COMPOUNDS CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES HLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES COPPER QUINOLINOLATE TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PYRETHROIDS PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL COPPER CHROME ARSENIC PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL PYRETHROIDS PYRETHROIDS PENTACHLOROPHENOL CREOSOTE BORON COMPOUNDS PENTACHLOROPHENOL TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE PYRETHROIDS COPPER QUINOLINOLATE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES OPPER CHROME ARSENIC CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES PENTACHLOROPHENOL PENTACHLOROPHENOL 48 Santophen 20 Sarmix SD 3419 SD 5532 seedrin Shell SD-5532 Sinituho Synklor Tanalised Wood Tanalith tar oil Tat chlor 4 TBTO Term-I-Trol Tetramethrin Thompson's Wood Fix tomo-oxiran Topichlor 20 Topichlor Toxichlor tributylstannate tributyltin Troysan Timbor Tronobor V-bor Vacsol Velsicol 104 Velsicol 1068 Velsicol heptachlor wash oil Weedone Wiltz-65 Wittox C Zetax brick oil zinc naphthenate see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see see PENTACHLOROPHENOL COPPER CHROME ARSENIC CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES PENTACHLOROPHENOL CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES COPPER CHROME ARSENIC COPPER CHROME ARSENIC CREOSOTE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE PENTACHLOROPHENOL PYRETHROIDS PENTACHLOROPHENOL COPPER QUINOLINOLATE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE TRIBUTYLTIN OXIDE NAPHTHENATES BORON COMPOUNDS BORON COMPOUNDS BORON COMPOUNDS IBUTYLTIN OXIDE CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CHLORINATED CYCLODIENES CREOSOTE PENTACHLOROPHENOL NAPHTHENATES NAPHTHENATES CREOSOTE NAPHTHENATES 49 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. Standards Australia, Preservative Treatment for Sawn Timber, Veneer and Plywood, Australian Standard 1604-1980, SAA, Sydney. Standards Australia, Preservative-treated Farm Fencing Timber, Australian Standard 1608-1974, SAA, Sydney. National Occupational Health and Safety Commission, Guidance Note for Completion of a Material Safety Date Sheet, Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra, 1986. Standards Australia, Industrial Safety Gloves and Mittens, Australian Standard 2161-1978, SAA, Sydney. Standards Australia, Respiratory Protective Devices, Australian Standard 1716-1984, SAA, Sydney. Standards Australia, Timber Preservation Safety Code Part 1 - Plant Design, Australian Standard 2843.11985, SAA, Sydney. National Health and Medical Research Council, Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Drugs and Poisons, Department of Health, Canberra, 1986. National Occupational Health and Safety Commission, Draft Exposure Standards for Atmospheric Contaminants in the Occupational Environment, NOHSC, Sydney, 1988. Standards Australia, High Temperature Creosote for the Preservation of Timber, Australian Standard 1143-1973, SAA, Sydney. National Health and Medical Research Council, Approved Occupational Health Guide: Recognition and Appraisal of Chemical Hazards, Department of Health, Canberra, 1982. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (USA), Criteria for a Recommended Standard for Occupational Exposure to Coal Tar Products, DHEW(NIOSH), Publication no. 78-107, September 1977. Deichmann, W.B., Phenols and Phenolic Compounds, Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology, ed. by Clayton G.& Clayton F., vol.2A, Toxicology, pp.2601-2604, Wiley-Interscience, New York, 1981. Standards Australia, Sampling and Analysis of Wood Preservatives and Preservative-treated Wood, Australian Standard 1605-1974, SAA, Sydney. Standards Australia, Playground Equipment for Parks, Schools and Domestic Use, Part 1 - General Requirements, Australian Standard 1924, Part 1 - 1981, SAA, Sydney. International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans, IARC Monographs Supplement 1, World Health Organisation, Lyon, 1979. International Agency for Research on Cancer, Some Metals and Metallic Compounds, IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risks of Chemicals to Humans, vol. 23, World Health Organisation, WHO Lyon, 1980. 50 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. World Health Organisation, Arsenic, Environmental Health Criteria 18, WHO, Geneva, 1981. International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans, IARC Monographs Supplement 4, World Health Organization, Lyon, 1982. National Health and Medical Research Council, Draft Report of 94th Session, Department of Health, Canberra, 1982. American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Inc., Documentation of the Threshold Limit Values and Biological Exposure Indices, 5th edn, Cincinnati, USA, 1986. Parmeggiani, L. (ed.), Pesticides, halogenated, Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety, 3rd (rev.) edn, vol. 2, pp.1633-37, ILO, Geneva, 1983. Parmeggiani, L. (ed.), Boron, Alloys and Compounds, Encyclopaedia of Occupational Health and Safety. 3rd (rev) edn, pp.310-22, ILO, Geneva, 1983. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (USA), Criteria for a Recommended Standard for Occupational Exposure to Organotin Compounds, DHEW (NIOSH) Publication no. 77-115, November 1976. 51 FURTHER READING Australian Council of Trade Unions, Health Hazard Alert - Pentachlorophenol', Health and Safety Bulletin, no. 8, ACTU-VTHC Occupational Health and Safety Unit, Victoria, March 1982. Department of Health and Social Security, Pesticide, Poisoning - Notes for the Guidance of Medical Practitioners, 1st edn, HMSO, London, 1983. International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Humans : Some Fumigants, the Herbicides 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T, Chlorinated Dibenzodioxins and Miscellaneous Industrial Chemicals, vol. 15, pp.103-10, World Health Organisation, Lyon, 1977. International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risks of Chemicals to Humans : Some Halogenated Hydrocarbons, vol. 20, pp.303-25, World Health Organisation, Lyon, 1979. Snellgrove, J. (ed.), Pestlist, 6th edn, Department of Agriculture, Victoria, Agricultural Standards Section, East Melbourne, May 1983. Standards Australia, Water repellent solutions for the treatment of timber, joinery and other timber products, Australian Standard 1607-1974, SAA, Sydney. Standards Australia, Selection, use and maintenance of respiratory protective devices, Australian Standard 17151982, SAA, Sydney. Standards Australia, SAA Timber Preservation Safety Code Part 2 - Plant Operation, Australian Standard 2843.21985, SAA, Sydney. Telecom Australia, Wood Preservatives: Guideline No. 7.1, Occupational Health Service, Melbourne, December 1982. USA Environmental Protection Agency, Wood Preservative Pesticides: Creosote, Pentachlorophenol, Inorganic Arsenicals, Position Document 4, Office of Pesticide Programs, Washington DC, July 1984. USA Environmental Protection Agency, Wood Preservative Pesticides, Position Document 2/3, Office of Pesticide Programs, Washington DC, 1981. Zenz, Carl (ed.), Developments in Occupational Medicine, Year Book Medical Publishers Inc., Chicago, pp.259311, 1980. 52