Technical Specifications

SECTION V REACTIVITY DATA
Stability Stable
Conditions to Avoid Avoid contact with acids (Hydrofluoric)
SECTION VI HEALTH HAZARD DATA
Route(s) of Entry Inhalation Yes
Note No Health Hazard exists from intact tile, only when tile is cut, sawed or broken causing exposure to
airborne dust.
Acute
Inhaled Heavy contamination with dust may cause respiratory irritation to nose and throat
Skin Dust or occasional contamination on the skin will cause no adverse effects
Eye Entry of dust into the eyes as a foreign body will cause local irritation
Ingestion Considered an unlikely route of entry in the industrial situation. Non toxic if swallowed.
Chronic
Inhaled Repeated exposure by inhalation may cause serious chronic effects which could lead to
silicosis, a serious lung disease.
Carcinogenicity
NTP Yes
IARC Monographs Yes
OSHA regulated Yes
Crystalline Silica is a known carcinogen and produces a condition known as silicosis in humans
Signs and Symptoms of Exposure
The onset of silicosis is usually slow and lung damage may occur even when no symptoms or signs of
ill health have occurred. Silicosis can develop to a more serious degree even after exposure has ceased,
and may lead to other diseases including heart disease and scleroderma. Development of silicosis may increase
the risk of lung cancer.
Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure
Existing lung disease may be aggravated after exposure to tile dust.
Emergency and First Aid Procedures
Inhalation
Remove the victim to fresh air if exposed to large amounts of tile cutting dust. Administer CPR if
breathing has stopped. Keep victim at rest. Call for prompt medical attention
Skin
Wash thoroughly with soap and water after working with tiles.
Eye
Immediately flush eyes with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes if dust gets in eyes.
Get medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion
Seek medical attention if nausea develops.