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Instruction Manual
IM-106-880C, OI
September 2009
Hazardous Area OCX 8800
A-26
3. A statistical "trend" was observed in the exposed population between
the duration of exposure to RCF and a decrease in some measures
of pulmonary function. These observations are clinically insignificant.
In other words, if these observations were made on an individual
employee, the results would be interpreted as being within the
normal range.
4. Pleural plaques (thickening along the chest wall) have been
observed in a small number of employees who had a long duration of
employment. There are several occupational and non-occupational
causes for pleural plaque. It should be noted that plaques are not
"pre-cancer" nor are they associated with any measurable effect on
lung function.
TOXICOLOGY
A number of studies on the health effects of inhalation exposure of rats
and hamsters are available. Rats were exposed to RCF in a series of
life-time nose-only inhalation studies. The animals were exposed to 30,
16, 9, and 3 mg/m3, which corresponds with approximately 200, 150,
75, and 25 fibers/cc.
Animals exposed to 30 and 16 mg/m3 were observed to have
developed a pleural and parenchymal fibroses; animals exposed to 9
mg/m3 had developed a mild parenchymal fibrosis; animals exposed to
the lowest dose were found to have the response typically observed any
time a material is inhaled into the deep lung. While a statistically
significant increase in lung tumors was observed following exposure to
the highest dose, there was no excess lung cancers at the other doses.
Two rats exposed to 30 mg/m3 and one rat exposed to 9 mg/m3
developed masotheliomas.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reviewed the
carcinogenicity data on man-made vitreous fibers (including ceramic
fiber, glasswool, rockwool, and slagwool) in 1987. IARC classified
ceramic fiber, fibrous glasswool and mineral wool (rockwool and
slagwool) as possible human carcinogens (Group 2B).
EMERGENCY FIRST AID PROCEDURES
• EYE CONTACT - Flush eyes immediately with large amounts of
water for approximately 15 minutes. Eye lids should be held away
from the eyeball to insure thorough rinsing. Do not rub eyes. Get
medical attention if irritation persists.
• INHALATION - Remove person from source of exposure and move
to fresh air. Some people may be sensitive to fiber induced irritation
of the respiratory tract. If symptoms such as shortness of breath,
coughing, wheezing or chest pain develop, seek medical attention. If
person experiences continued breathing difficulties, administer
oxygen until medical assistance can be rendered.
• INGESTION - Do not induce vomiting. Get medical attention if
irritation persists.
• SKIN CONTACT - Do not rub or scratch exposed skin. Wash area of
contact thoroughly with soap and water. Using a skin cream or lotion
after washing may be helpful. Get medical attention if irritation
persists.