ABC of Safety in the Biological Sciences

 


 

COPPER METAL POWDER

CHARACTERISTICS
Golden powder.
INCOMPATIBILITY
Copper is incompatible with acetylenic compounds and lead azide with which it forms explosive compounds. It can also react violently with oxidants.
HEALTH HAZARD DATA
This substance is an eye irritant and can be harmful to the respiratory system if the dust is inhaled. The threshold level is 1 mg/m3. There is only a slight toxic hazard after ingestion.
HANDLING and GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Avoid eye contact.
Avoid inhalation.
Keep away from moisture.
Keep away from strong oxidants.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Wear protective clothing to avoid eye contact and inhalation. A long sleeved laboratory coat or gown, rubber gloves, safety goggles and a face mask as a minimum standard.
TREATMENTS
Skin ­ immediately wash the affected area with soap or mild detergent and large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes).
Eyes ­ immediately wash the affected eye with large amounts of water until all evidence of the chemical has been removed (approximately 15 minutes). If discomfort persists seek medical attention.
Inhalation ­ remove from the area of exposure to fresh air. In severe cases seek medical attention.
STORAGE
Store in a cool, dry atmosphere away from moisture.
DISPOSAL
WEAR:
Heavy gloves, safety glasses and laboratory coat.
1. Larger pieces of less expensive metals can be sold as scrap metal. eg. aluminium, copper and brass.
2. The more expensive metals are worth salvaging even in small pieces. eg. platinum wire and silver foil.
3. Metal should be sorted and placed in boxes, properly labelled. Turnings, shot and cuttings of the cheaper metals may be assigned to a landfill.
ENVIRONMENT:

 


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REFERENCES