Handbook

PBL UHF1/1A 1 & 2 Air Interface
Maintenance Handbook
H/book Number:-60-055900HBKM
Issue No:-2
Date:-20/10/2003
Page:-
10 of 85
1.3 Chemical Hazard
Beryllium Oxide, also known as Beryllium Monoxide, or Thermalox™, is sometimes used
in devices within equipment produced by Aerial Facilities Ltd. Beryllium oxide dust can be
toxic if inhaled, leading to chronic respiratory problems. It is harmless if ingested or by
contact.
Products that contain beryllium are load terminations (dummy loads) and some power
amplifiers. These products can be identified by a yellow and black “skull and crossbones”
danger symbol (shown above). They are marked as hazardous in line with international
regulations, but pose no threat under normal circumstances. Only if a component containing
beryllium oxide has suffered catastrophic failure, or exploded, will there be any danger of the
formation of dust. Any dust that has been created will be contained within the equipment
module as long as the module remains sealed. For this reason, any module carrying the
yellow and black danger sign should not be opened. If the equipment is suspected of failure,
or is at the end of its life-cycle, it must be returned to Aerial Facilities Ltd for disposal.
To return such equipment, please contact the Quality Department, who will give you a
Returned Materials Authorisation (RMA) number. Please quote this number on the packing
documents, and on all correspondence relating to the shipment.
PolyTetraFluoroEthylene, (P.T.F.E.) and P.T.F.E. Composite Materials
Many modules/components in AFL equipment contain P.T.F.E. as part of the RF insulation
barrier.
This material should never be heated to the point where smoke or fumes are evolved. Any
person feeling drowsy after coming into contact with P.T.F.E. especially dust or fumes
should seek medical attention.