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BERYLLIUM OXIDE ICSC: 1325
April 2000
Beryllia
Beryllium monoxide
PDF for printing Explanation of fields
CAS No: 1304-56-9
RTECS No: DS4025000
UN No: 1566
EC No: 004-003-00-8
    BeO
Molecular mass: 25.0

TYPES OF
HAZARD /
EXPOSURE
ACUTE HAZARDS / SYMPTOMS      PREVENTION      FIRST AID / FIRE FIGHTING
FIRE Not combustible. Gives off irritating or toxic fumes (or gases) in a fire.   In case of fire in the surroundings: use appropriate extinguishing media.
EXPLOSION      
 
EXPOSURE   PREVENT DISPERSION OF DUST! AVOID ALL CONTACT! IN ALL CASES CONSULT A DOCTOR!
Inhalation Cough. Shortness of breath. Sore throat. Symptoms may be delayed (see Notes). Closed system and ventilation. 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. Refer for medical attention.

SPILLAGE DISPOSAL PACKAGING & LABELLING
Sweep spilled substance into sealable containers; if appropriate, moisten first to prevent dusting. Carefully collect remainder, then remove to safe place. Do NOT let this chemical enter the environment. Chemical protection suit including self-contained breathing apparatus. T+ Symbol
R: 49-25-26-36/37/38-43-48/23
S: 53-45
Note: E
UN Hazard Class: 6.1
UN Pack Group: II

Unbreakable packaging; put breakable packaging into closed unbreakable container. Do not transport with food and feedstuffs.


EMERGENCY RESPONSE SAFE STORAGE
Transport Emergency Card: TEC (R)-61GT5-II Separated from food and feedstuffs. Well closed.

IMPORTANT DATA
Physical State; Appearance
WHITE CRYSTALS OR POWDER.

Chemical dangers
Upon heating, toxic fumes are formed.

Occupational exposure limits
TLV: (as Be) 0.002 mg/m³ as TWA; 0.01 mg/m³ as STEL; A1; (ACGIH 2004).
MAK: Sah; Carcinogen category: 1; (DFG 2004).

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 substance is irritating to the eyes, the skin and the respiratory tract. Inhalation of the dust may cause chemical pneumonitis. The effects may be delayed. Medical observation is indicated. Exposure may result in death.

Effects of long-term or repeated exposure
Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin sensitization. Lungs may be affected by repeated or prolonged exposure, resulting in chronic beryllium disease (cough, weight loss, weakness). This substance is carcinogenic to humans.


PHYSICAL PROPERTIES ENVIRONMENTAL DATA
Boiling point: 3900°C
Melting point: 2530°C
Density: 3.0 g/cm³
Solubility in water: at 20 °C none
The substance is very toxic to aquatic organisms. The substance may cause long-term effects in the aquatic environment.

NOTES
The symptoms of acute pneumonitis following a massive short-term exposure do not become manifest until 3 days.
Depending on the degree of exposure, periodic medical examination is suggested.
Do NOT take working clothes home.
Card has been partly updated in October 2004. See sections Occupational Exposure Limits, EU classification, Emergency Response.

IPCS
International
Programme on
Chemical Safety
WHO ILO UNEP EC Prepared in the context of cooperation between the International Programme on Chemical Safety and the European Commission
© IPCS 2004
LEGAL NOTICE Neither the EC nor the IPCS nor any person acting on behalf of the EC or the IPCS is responsible for the use which might be made of this information.

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