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Safety Data Sheet: Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF

This document provides safety information for Paving Bitumen 60/70 AF. It identifies the product and supplier, and notes that the intended use is for road paving and industrial applications. Hazards are identified as potential thermal burns from contact with hot material, and irritation from exposure to fumes. The document provides guidance on first aid measures, firefighting, accidental releases, handling and storage, exposure controls and personal protection for safe use of the product.

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mohamed saad
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Topics covered

  • Regulatory Compliance,
  • Environmental Precautions,
  • Paving Bitumen,
  • Regulatory Information,
  • Personal Protection,
  • Autoignition Temperature,
  • Odour,
  • Protective Equipment,
  • Waste Disposal,
  • Product Code
0% found this document useful (0 votes)
473 views10 pages

Safety Data Sheet: Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF

This document provides safety information for Paving Bitumen 60/70 AF. It identifies the product and supplier, and notes that the intended use is for road paving and industrial applications. Hazards are identified as potential thermal burns from contact with hot material, and irritation from exposure to fumes. The document provides guidance on first aid measures, firefighting, accidental releases, handling and storage, exposure controls and personal protection for safe use of the product.

Uploaded by

mohamed saad
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Topics covered

  • Regulatory Compliance,
  • Environmental Precautions,
  • Paving Bitumen,
  • Regulatory Information,
  • Personal Protection,
  • Autoignition Temperature,
  • Odour,
  • Protective Equipment,
  • Waste Disposal,
  • Product Code

Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF

Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021


Page 1 of 10

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

SAFETY DATA SHEET


SECTION 1 PRODUCT AND COMPANY IDENTIFICATION

PRODUCT
Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Product Description: Asphalt/Bitumen
Product Code: 1010909010D0
Intended Use: Mainly used for road paving, Miscellaneous industrial applications

COMPANY IDENTIFICATION
Supplier: EXXONMOBIL EGYPT (SAE)
1097 CORNISH EL NIL STREET
GARDEN CITY
11511 CAIRO
Egypt

Product Technical Information +20 2 279 16 360 / +20 2 279 16 390

Supplier General Contact +20 2 279 16 200

National Poison Control Centre: +20226840902

SECTION 2 HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION

This material is not hazardous according to regulatory guidelines (see (M)SDS Section 15).

Other hazard information:

Physical / Chemical Hazards:


Thermal burn hazard - contact with hot material may cause thermal burns.

Health Hazards:
Exposure to high fume concentrations from heated asphalt may cause eye and respiratory tract irritation.
Hydrogen sulphide, a highly toxic gas, may be present. Signs and symptoms of overexposure to hydrogen
sulphide include respiratory and eye irritation, dizziness, nausea, coughing, a sensation of dryness and pain in
the nose, and loss of consciousness. Odour does not provide a reliable indicator of the presence of hazardous
levels in the atmosphere.

Environmental Hazards:
No significant hazards.

NOTE: This material should not be used for any other purpose than the intended use in Section 1 without expert
advice. Health studies have shown that chemical exposure may cause potential human health risks which may vary
Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021
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from person to person.

SECTION 3 COMPOSITION / INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS

This material is defined as a substance.

No Reportable Hazardous Substance(s) or Complex Substance(s).

SECTION 4 FIRST AID MEASURES

INHALATION
Immediately remove from further exposure. Get immediate medical assistance. For those providing
assistance, avoid exposure to yourself or others. Use adequate respiratory protection. Give supplemental
oxygen, if available. If breathing has stopped, assist ventilation with a mechanical device.

SKIN CONTACT
Wash contact areas with soap and water. If burned by contact with hot material, molten material adhering to
skin should be cooled as quickly as possible with water, and see a physician for removal of adhering material
and treatment of burn.

EYE CONTACT
Flush thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes. Get medical assistance.

INGESTION
First aid is normally not required. Seek medical attention if discomfort occurs.

NOTE TO PHYSICIAN
None

SECTION 5 FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES

EXTINGUISHING MEDIA
Appropriate Extinguishing Media: Use dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO2), or a dry, non-combustible
material such as dry sand or earth to extinguish flames.

Inappropriate Extinguishing Media: DO NOT USE WATER.

FIRE FIGHTING
Fire Fighting Instructions: Evacuate area. Prevent run-off from fire control or dilution from entering
streams, sewers or drinking water supply. Fire-fighters should use standard protective equipment and in
enclosed spaces, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). Use water spray to cool fire exposed surfaces
and to protect personnel.

Hazardous Combustion Products: Aldehydes, Hydrogen sulphide, Incomplete combustion products,


Oxides of carbon, Smoke, Fume, Sulphur oxides

FLAMMABILITY PROPERTIES
Flash Point [Method]: >250°C (482°F) [EN/ISO 2592]
Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021
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Flammable Limits (Approximate volume % in air): LEL: 0.5 UEL: 5.0
Autoignition Temperature: N/D

SECTION 6 ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES
In the event of a spill or accidental release, notify relevant authorities in accordance with all applicable
regulations.

PROTECTIVE MEASURES
Avoid contact with spilled material. See Section 5 for fire fighting information. See the Hazard Identification
Section for Significant Hazards. See Section 4 for First Aid Advice. See Section 8 for advice on the minimum
requirements for personal protective equipment. Additional protective measures may be necessary, depending
on the specific circumstances and/or the expert judgment of the emergency responders.

For emergency responders: Respiratory protection: half-face or full-face respirator with filter(s) for organic
vapor and, when applicable, H2S, or Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) can be used depending on
the size of spill and potential level of exposure. If the exposure cannot be completely characterized or an
oxygen deficient atmosphere is possible or anticipated, SCBA is recommended. Chemical goggles and face
shield are recommended if contact of eyes with hot product or vapours is possible. Small spills: normal work
clothes are usually adequate. Large spills: full body suit of chemical and thermal resistant material is
recommended. Work gloves (preferably gauntlet style) that provide adequate chemical resistance. Note:
gloves made of polyvinyl acetate (PVA) are not water-resistant and are not suitable for emergency use. If
contact with hot product is possible or anticipated, heat-resistant and thermally insulated gloves are
recommended.

SPILL MANAGEMENT
Land Spill: Stop leak if you can do so without risk. Do not touch or walk through spilled material. Prevent
entry into waterways, sewer, basements or confined areas. A vapour-suppressing foam may be used to
reduce vapour. Absorb or cover with dry earth, sand or other non-combustible material and transfer to
containers.

Water Spill: Stop leak if you can do so without risk. Material will sink. Consult an expert.

Water spill and land spill recommendations are based on the most likely spill scenario for this material;
however, geographic conditions, wind, temperature, (and in the case of a water spill) wave and current direction
and speed may greatly influence the appropriate action to be taken. For this reason, local experts should be
consulted. Note: Local regulations may prescribe or limit action to be taken.

ENVIRONMENTAL PRECAUTIONS
Large Spills: Dyke far ahead of liquid spill for later recovery and disposal. Prevent entry into waterways,
sewers, basements or confined areas.

SECTION 7 HANDLING AND STORAGE

HANDLING
Avoid vapour from heated materials to prevent exposure to potentially toxic/irritating fumes. Hydrogen
sulphide (H2S) may be given off when this material is heated. Do not depend on sense of smell for warning.
When heating to normal handling temperatures, avoid local overheating. Use only with adequate ventilation.
Prevent small spills and leakage to avoid slip hazard.
Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021
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Loading/Unloading Temperature: > 90°C (194°F)

Static Accumulator: This material is not a static accumulator.

STORAGE
Non-absorbent insulation such as foam glass is recommended for tankage and piping. Do not store in open
or unlabelled containers.
Storage Temperature: < 230°C (446°F)

SECTION 8 EXPOSURE CONTROLS / PERSONAL PROTECTION

EXPOSURE LIMIT VALUES

Exposure limits/standards (Note: Exposure limits are not additive):

Substance Name Form Limit/Standard Note Source


Asphalt fumes [benzene solubles Fume. TWA 0.5 mg/m3 Egypt OELs
aerosols]
Asphalt fumes [benzene solubles] Fume, TWA 0.5 mg/m3 ACGIH
inhalable
Hydrogen sulphide STEL 21 mg/m3 15 ppm Egypt OELs
Hydrogen sulphide TWA 14 mg/m3 10 ppm Egypt OELs
Hydrogen sulphide STEL 14 mg/m3 10 ppm ExxonMobil
Hydrogen sulphide TWA 7 mg/m3 5 ppm ExxonMobil
Hydrogen sulphide STEL 5 ppm ACGIH
Hydrogen sulphide TWA 1 ppm ACGIH

Note: Information about recommended monitoring procedures can be obtained from the relevant
agency(ies)/institute(s):

ENGINEERING CONTROLS

The level of protection and types of controls necessary will vary depending upon potential exposure conditions.
Control measures to consider:
Reduce exposure to fume by keeping operating temperatures as low as possible taking into account
occupational exposure limits and safe handling temperatures. Where practicable, handle within an
enclosed process. Alternatively, local exhaust ventilation should be considered.

PERSONAL PROTECTION

Personal protective equipment selections vary based on potential exposure conditions such as applications,
handling practices, concentration and ventilation. Information on the selection of protective equipment for use
with this material, as provided below, is based upon intended, normal usage.

Respiratory Protection: If engineering controls do not maintain airborne contaminant concentrations at a


level which is adequate to protect worker health, an approved respirator may be appropriate. Respirator
selection, use, and maintenance must be in accordance with regulatory requirements, if applicable. Types of
respirators to be considered for this material include:
Positive-pressure, air-supplied respirator in areas where H2S vapours may accumulate is
recommended.
Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021
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_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

For high airborne concentrations, use an approved supplied-air respirator, operated in positive pressure mode.
Supplied air respirators with an escape bottle may be appropriate when oxygen levels are inadequate,
gas/vapour warning properties are poor, or if air purifying filter capacity/rating may be exceeded.

Hand Protection: Any specific glove information provided is based on published literature and glove
manufacturer data. Glove suitability and breakthrough time will differ depending on the specific use conditions.
Contact the glove manufacturer for specific advice on glove selection and breakthrough times for your use
conditions. Inspect and replace worn or damaged gloves. The types of gloves to be considered for this material
include:
If product is hot, thermally protective, chemical resistant gloves are recommended. If contact with
forearms is likely, wear gauntlet style gloves. CEN standards EN 420 and EN 374 provide general
requirements and lists of glove types.

Eye Protection: If contact with material may occur, safety glasses and face shield are recommended.

Skin and Body Protection: Any specific clothing information provided is based on published literature or
manufacturer data. The types of clothing to be considered for this material include:
If product is hot, thermally protective, chemical resistant apron and long sleeves are recommended.

Specific Hygiene Measures: Always observe good personal hygiene measures, such as washing after
handling the material and before eating, drinking, and/or smoking. Routinely wash work clothing and
protective equipment to remove contaminants. Discard contaminated clothing and footwear that cannot be
cleaned. Practice good housekeeping.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROLS
Comply with applicable environmental regulations limiting discharge to air, water and
soil. Protect the environment by applying appropriate control measures to prevent or limit
emissions.

SECTION 9 PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Note: Physical and chemical properties are provided for safety, health and environmental considerations only
and may not fully represent product specifications. Contact the Supplier for additional information.

GENERAL INFORMATION
Physical State: Solid
Colour: Black
Odour: Petroleum/Solvent
Odour Threshold: N/D

IMPORTANT HEALTH, SAFETY, AND ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION


Relative Density (at 25 °C): 1 - 1.1
Flammability (Solid, Gas): N/A
Flash Point [Method]: >250°C (482°F) [EN/ISO 2592]
Flammable Limits (Approximate volume % in air): LEL: 0.5 UEL: 5.0
Autoignition Temperature: N/D
Boiling Point / Range: > 400°C (752°F) [Estimated]
Decomposition Temperature: N/D
Vapour Density (Air = 1): > 1 at 101 kPa [Estimated]
Vapour Pressure: < 0.013 kPa (0.1 mm Hg) at 20 °C [Estimated]
Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021
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Evaporation Rate (n-butyl acetate = 1): N/A
pH: N/A
Log Pow (n-Octanol/Water Partition Coefficient): > 6 [Estimated]
Solubility in Water: Negligible
Viscosity: [N/A at 40ºC]
Oxidizing Properties: See Hazards Identification Section.

OTHER INFORMATION
Freezing Point: N/A
Melting Point: N/A

SECTION 10 STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

STABILITY: Material is stable under normal conditions.

CONDITIONS TO AVOID: Contact of hot product with water. Overheating.

MATERIALS TO AVOID: Alkalies, Halogens, Strong Acids, Strong oxidisers

HAZARDOUS DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS: Material does not decompose at ambient temperatures.

POSSIBILITY OF HAZARDOUS REACTIONS: Hazardous polymerization will not occur.

SECTION 11 TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION

INFORMATION ON TOXICOLOGICAL EFFECTS

Hazard Class Conclusion / Remarks


Inhalation
Acute Toxicity: (Rat) 4 hour(s) LC50 > Minimally Toxic. Based on test data for structurally similar
MAXCONC materials. Test(s) equivalent or similar to OECD Guideline 403
Irritation: No end point data for material. Elevated temperatures or mechanical action may form vapours,
mist, or fumes which may be irritating to the eyes, nose, throat, or
lungs.
Ingestion
Acute Toxicity (Rat): LD50 > 5000 mg/kg Minimally Toxic. Based on test data for structurally similar
materials. Test(s) equivalent or similar to OECD Guideline 401
Skin
Acute Toxicity (Rabbit): LD50 > 5000 mg/kg Minimally Toxic. Based on test data for structurally similar
materials. Test(s) equivalent or similar to OECD Guideline 402
Skin Corrosion/Irritation: Data available. Negligible irritation to skin at ambient temperatures. Based on test
data for structurally similar materials. Test(s) equivalent or similar
to OECD Guideline 404
Eye
Serious Eye Damage/Irritation: Data May cause mild, short-lasting discomfort to eyes. Based on test
available. data for structurally similar materials. Test(s) equivalent or similar
to OECD Guideline 405
Sensitisation
Respiratory Sensitization: No end point data Not expected to be a respiratory sensitizer.
for material.
Skin Sensitization: Data available. Not expected to be a skin sensitizer. Based on test data for
structurally similar materials. Test(s) equivalent or similar to OECD
Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021
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Guideline 406
Aspiration: Data available. Not expected to be an aspiration hazard. Based on physico-
chemical properties of the material.
Germ Cell Mutagenicity: Data available. Not expected to be a germ cell mutagen. Based on test data for
structurally similar materials. Test(s) equivalent or similar to OECD
Guideline 471 474
Carcinogenicity: Data available. Not expected to cause cancer. Based on test data for structurally
similar materials. Test(s) equivalent or similar to OECD Guideline
451
Reproductive Toxicity: Data available. Not expected to be a reproductive toxicant. Based on test data for
structurally similar materials. Test(s) equivalent or similar to OECD
Guideline 422
Lactation: No end point data for material. Not expected to cause harm to breast-fed children.
Specific Target Organ Toxicity (STOT)
Single Exposure: No end point data for Not expected to cause organ damage from a single exposure.
material.
Repeated Exposure: Data available. Not expected to cause organ damage from prolonged or repeated
exposure. Based on test data for structurally similar materials.
Test(s) equivalent or similar to OECD Guideline 410 412 413
422

OTHER INFORMATION
For the product itself:

Asphalt (bitumen): May contain low levels of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs), some of which are suspected of
causing cancer under conditions of poor industrial hygiene and prolonged repeated contact. These PACs may also be
inhaled. Inhalation studies at high concentrations of fumes resulted in bronchitis, pneumonitis, fibrosis and cell damage.
Avoid contact with the asphalt emissions.
Contains:
HYDROGEN SULPHIDE: Chronic health effects due to repeated exposures to low levels of H2S have not been
established. High level (700 ppm) acute exposure can result in sudden death. High concentrations will lead to
cardiopulmonary arrest due to nervous system toxicity and pulmonary edema. Lower levels (150 ppm) may overwhelm
sense of smell, eliminating warning of exposure. Symptoms of overexposure to H2S include headache, fatigue,
insomnia, irritability, and gastrointestinal problems. Repeated exposures to approximately 25 ppm will irritate mucous
membranes and the respiratory system and have been implicated in some eye damage. EMISSIONS (generated from
heated bitumen product): According to The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), certain specific
occupational uses of bitumen products may result in carcinogenic hazards, as follows: (a) Occupational exposures to
oxidized bitumens and their emissions during roofing are ‘probably carcinogenic to humans’ (Group 2A), (b)
occupational exposures to hard bitumens and their emissions during mastic asphalt work are ‘possibly carcinogenic to
humans’ (Group 2B), and (c) occupational exposures to straight-run bitumens and their emissions during road paving
are ‘possibly carcinogenic to humans’ (Group 2B). These levels of hazard identified by IARC are associated with the
specified occupational uses which require heating. Oxidized asphalts have been defined as having a Penetration Index
(PI) of > 2.0.

SECTION 12 ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION


The information given is based on data for the material, components of the material, or for similar materials, through the
application of bridging principals.

ECOTOXICITY
Material -- Not expected to be harmful to aquatic organisms.

MOBILITY
Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021
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Majority of components -- Low water solubility, expected to sink and migrate into the sediment. Expected
to partition to sediment and wastewater solids.
Material -- Low potential to migrate through soil.

PERSISTENCE AND DEGRADABILITY


Biodegradation:
Material -- Expected to be persistent.

BIOACCUMULATION POTENTIAL
Material -- Has the potential to bioaccumulate, however metabolism or physical properties may reduce
the bioconcentration or limit bioavailability.

SECTION 13 DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS

Disposal recommendations based on material as supplied. Disposal must be in accordance with current applicable
laws and regulations, and material characteristics at time of disposal.

DISPOSAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Dispose of waste at an appropriate treatment and disposal facility in accordance with applicable laws and
regulations, and product characteristics at time of disposal.

Empty Container Warning Empty Container Warning (where applicable): Empty containers may contain residue
and can be dangerous. Do not attempt to refill or clean containers without proper instructions. Empty drums should
be completely drained and safely stored until appropriately reconditioned or disposed. Empty containers should be
taken for recycling, recovery, or disposal through suitably qualified or licensed contractor and in accordance with
governmental regulations. DO NOT PRESSURISE, CUT, WELD, BRAZE, SOLDER, DRILL, GRIND, OR EXPOSE
SUCH CONTAINERS TO HEAT, FLAME, SPARKS, STATIC ELECTRICITY, OR OTHER SOURCES OF IGNITION.
THEY MAY EXPLODE AND CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH.

SECTION 14 TRANSPORT INFORMATION

LAND (ADR/RID)
Proper Shipping Name: ELEVATED TEMPERATURE LIQUID, N.O.S. (Bitumen)
Hazard Class: 9
Classification Code: M9
UN Number: 3257
Packing Group: III
Label(s) / Mark(s): 9 (ET)
Hazard ID Number: 99
Hazchem EAC: 2Y

SEA (IMDG)
Proper Shipping Name: ELEVATED TEMPERATURE LIQUID, N.O.S. (Bitumen)
Hazard Class & Division: 9
EMS Number: F-A, S-P
UN Number: 3257
Packing Group: III
Marine Pollutant: No
Label(s): 9 (ET)
Transport Document Name: UN3257, ELEVATED TEMPERATURE LIQUID, N.O.S. (Bitumen), 9, PG III
Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021
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AIR (IATA)
Proper Shipping Name: NOT STANDARD PRACTICE
Hazard Class & Division:
UN Number:
Packing Group: (N/A)
Label(s) / Mark(s):
Transport Document Name: NOT STANDARD PRACTICE,

[Footnote: Product classified as UN 3257 is forbidden by air transport but the product may be transported by
air if its temperature is less than 100 deg. C (212 deg. F). If the product is offered for transport at less than
100 deg. C (212 deg. F), the transport classification is Not Regulated.]

SECTION 15 REGULATORY INFORMATION

This material is not considered hazardous according to the Classification of Chemicals based on Globally
Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).

REGULATORY STATUS AND APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS

Listed or exempt from listing/notification on the following chemical inventories : AIIC, DSL, ENCS,
IECSC, KECI, PICCS, TSCA

SECTION 16 OTHER INFORMATION

N/D = Not determined, N/A = Not applicable

THIS SAFETY DATA SHEET CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING REVISIONS:


GHS Target Organ Phrase information was deleted.
Hazard Identification: EU - Hazards Statement - GHS information was deleted.
Section 10: Conditions to Avoid information was modified.
Section 14: EMS Number information was modified.
Section 15: National Chemical Inventory Listing information was modified.

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The information and recommendations contained herein are, to the best of ExxonMobil's knowledge and belief, accurate
and reliable as of the date issued. You can contact ExxonMobil to insure that this document is the most current
available from ExxonMobil. The information and recommendations are offered for the user's consideration and
examination. It is the user's responsibility to satisfy itself that the product is suitable for the intended use. If buyer
repackages this product, it is the user's responsibility to insure proper health, safety and other necessary information is
included with and/or on the container. Appropriate warnings and safe-handling procedures should be provided to
handlers and users. Alteration of this document is strictly prohibited. Except to the extent required by law, re-
publication or retransmission of this document, in whole or in part, is not permitted. The term, "ExxonMobil" is used for
convenience, and may include any one or more of ExxonMobil Chemical Company, Exxon Mobil Corporation, or any
affiliates in which they directly or indirectly hold any interest.

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Internal Use Only


Product Name: PAVING BITUMEN 60/70 AF
Revision Date: 27 Aug 2021
Page 10 of 10

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
MHC: 0B, 0B, 0, 0, 0, 1 PPEC: C

DGN: 7177741XEG (1026790)

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Common questions

Powered by AI

Prolonged exposure to paving bitumen fumes can lead to respiratory issues such as bronchitis, pneumonitis, and fibrosis, along with potential irritation of mucous membranes and headaches . Inhalation of high concentrations can damage the respiratory tract and nervous system . Control measures include maintaining adequate ventilation during handling, utilizing fume extraction systems, and adhering to occupational exposure limits . The use of protective respirators is also advised when engineering controls are insufficient to manage airborne contaminants .

The flash point of paving bitumen is >250°C (482°F), indicating that it requires a high temperature to ignite, which reduces the risk of fire under normal handling conditions . However, its flammable limits, with a lower explosive limit (LEL) of 0.5% and an upper explosive limit (UEL) of 5.0% in air, suggest that in cases of high vapor concentration, such as spills or leaks, there is a potential for explosive mixtures in the air . Therefore, safety handling procedures should include maintaining temperatures below the flash point, ensuring proper ventilation to disperse vapors, and avoiding ignition sources near storage or use areas .

For large spills of paving bitumen, it is recommended to dike far ahead of the liquid spill for later recovery and disposal to prevent entry into waterways, sewers, basements, or confined areas . This measure helps to contain the spill and minimize environmental damage. Protective measures include avoiding contact with the spilled material and using a vapor-suppressing foam to reduce vapor emissions. Depending on the situation and expert judgment, additional protective measures such as the use of SCBA and protective clothing are advised .

When working with paving bitumen at high temperatures, it is essential to avoid exposure to potentially toxic fumes by using adequate ventilation and avoiding local overheating . Hydrogen sulphide (H2S), which can be released when the material is heated, poses a significant risk as it can lead to sudden death at high concentrations (700 ppm) by causing cardiopulmonary arrest due to nervous system toxicity . Lower concentrations (150 ppm) can dull the sense of smell, removing the natural warning sign of exposure, causing headaches, fatigue, and respiratory irritation . Therefore, protective measures, including the use of specialized respirators and gas detection systems, are critical .

When handling hot paving bitumen, recommended PPE includes thermally protective, chemical-resistant gloves, ideally gauntlet style, to protect against burns and chemical exposure . Additionally, safety glasses and a face shield are advised to prevent eye contact with hot material, while a chemical-resistant apron and long sleeves can protect the skin and body . This combination of PPE is necessary to mitigate the risks of thermal burns and contact with toxic chemical fumes, ensuring worker safety under high-temperature conditions .

Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) exposure poses multiple challenges due to its acute toxicity and potential to cause rapid health effects, including cardiopulmonary arrest and neurological impairment . Its ability to overwhelm the sense of smell at moderate concentrations further complicates detection without specialized equipment . To address these challenges, the use of gas detectors and alarms is advised, along with personal protective equipment like positive-pressure, air-supplied respirators in areas where H2S levels might accumulate . Ensuring proper airflow and limiting duration and frequency of exposure are essential preventive measures .

Empty paving bitumen containers may contain residues that present significant safety hazards, such as the risk of explosion if exposed to heat, flames, or sparks . Regulatory compliance requires these containers to be disposed of by recycling, recovery, or other methods conducted by suitably qualified or licensed contractors in accordance with government regulations . It is crucial not to re-pressurize, cut, weld, or expose empty containers to ignition sources. Ensuring complete drainage and secure storage before final disposal minimizes the risk of accidents .

If paving bitumen is not managed properly in the event of a spill, it has the potential to sink and migrate into sediment due to its low solubility in water . This can lead to environmental contamination as it is persistent and has a potential for bioaccumulation, even though physical properties such as metabolism may limit bioavailability . Although it is not expected to be harmful to aquatic organisms, its persistence and bioaccumulative potential can lead to long-term ecological disturbances, affecting sediment and wastewater systems . Proper containment and recovery strategies are essential to mitigate such impacts.

Paving bitumen is classified as a 'Elevated Temperature Liquid, N.O.S. (Bitumen)' under transport regulations, affecting its handling during transportation. By sea, it is classified as a hazard class 9 and must be transported under strict guidelines outlined by the IMDG, including appropriate labeling and packaging measures . Transport by air typically requires the product temperature to be less than 100°C (212°F) to be deemed 'Not Standard Practice', which makes air transport highly restricted unless certain temperature conditions are met . These regulations ensure the safety of transport personnel and the integrity of the cargo.

Paving bitumen should be stored using non-absorbent insulation, such as foam glass, for tankage and piping to prevent heat loss and chemical reactions . It should not be stored in open or unlabeled containers, and temperatures should be kept below 230°C (446°F) to avoid overheating . Proper ventilation is necessary when handling the material to prevent toxic fume exposure, and the containers should be clearly labeled to prevent accidental exposure .

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