The Industrial Chemicals (Notification and Assessment) Act 1989 (the Act) commenced on 17 July 1990. As required by section 5 of the Act, a Chemical Gazette is published on the first Tuesday in any month or on any days prescribed by the regulations.
Gazette
Commonwealth
of Australia
No. C 3, Tuesday, 6 March 2001
CHEMICAL
Published by the Commonwealth of Australia
2
The Industrial Chemicals (Notification and Assessment) Act 1989 (the Act)
commenced on 17 July 1990. As required by section 5 of the Act, a Chemical Gazette
is published on the first Tuesday in any month or on any days prescribed by the
regulations.
3
CONTENTS
NEW CHEMICALS
SUMMARY REPORTS
1 NA/693 VANQUISH 5
2 NA/783 PEROXIDE IN TRIGONOX 301 9
3 NA/801 DISPERBYK-180 13
4 NA/824 HIMER EP-208 16
5 NA/835 T-AMYL PEROXYOCTOATE 19
6 NA/856 NEW OLOA 2508N 22
7 NA/862 CGX AO 145 25
BIS(2,4-DICUMYLPHENYL) PENTAERYTHRITOL
8 NA/866 28
DIPHOSPHITE (DOVERPHOS S-9228)
9 NA/870 POLYMER IN LAMAL HSA SLIP 30
10 NA/871 POLYMER IN AQUABOND 444A 32
11 NA/872 POLYMER IN ADCOTE E700A 34
12 NA/876 POLYMER IN MORFREE 403A 37
13 PLC/186 SYNKYD 50 40
POLYMER IN GLASURIT MULTI-EFFEKT 11-
14 PLC/188 42
LINE
15 PLC/190 OPTIFLO H370, H400, H500, H600 45
16 PLC/203 POLYMER IN ADCOTE 507 47
17 EX/20(NA/600) MLT-8723 49
18 ACCESS TO FULL PUBLIC REPORT 51
4
COMMERCIAL EVALUATION CATEGORY
19 COMMERCIAL EVALUATION CATEGORY PERMITS 52
LOW VOLUME CHEMICALS
20 LOW VOLUME CATEGORY PERMITS 53
EARLY INTRODUCTION PERMITS
EARLY INTRODUCTION PERMITS FOR NON-HAZARDOUS
21 54
INDUSTRIAL CHEMICALS
AUSTRALIAN INVENTORY OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES
NOTICE OF CHEMICALS LISTED ON THE AUSTRALIAN
22 55
INVENTORY OF CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES FIVE YEARS AFTER
ISSUING OF ASSESSMENT CERTIFICATES
EXISTING CHEMICALS
23 ELEVENTH SIDS INITIAL ASSESSMENT MEETING (SIAM 11) 58
5
1. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
Vanquish
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/693
Orica Australia Pty Ltd of 1 Nicholson St Melbourne VIC 3000 (ACN 004 117 828) has submitted
a standard/limited notification statement in support of their application for an assessment
certificate for Vanquish. The notified chemical is intended to be used as a broad spectrum
fungicide and bactericide for prevention of microbial spoilage of plastic articles, and also as a
preservative in metalworking fluids. Approximately 10 tonnes of the notified chemical will be
imported per annum for each of the first five years, comprised of 5 tonnes for use in plastic
articles, and 5 tonnes for use in metalworking fluids.
1.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
The notified chemical is of very low oral toxicity in the rat (LD50 ~ 4500 mg/kg) and low dermal
toxicity in rats (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg). The notified chemical was considered corrosive (caused
severe and permanent damage) to rabbit skin, with erythema persisting for more than 17 days, and
sub-epithelial fibrosis was also observed. The notified chemical is therefore classified as corrosive,
with the risk phrase R34, in accordance with the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying
Hazardous Substances (Approved Criteria). The notified chemical was found to be a moderate
skin sensitiser, and is classified with the risk phrase R43, in accordance with the Approved
Criteria. A negative result was obtained for the notified chemical at 200 ppm (0.02 %) in a human
repeat insult patch test, and therefore the notified chemical at this concentration is not classified as
a sensitiser in humans. The notified chemical was not be classed as a mutagen according to the
Approved Criteria based on the result of four in vitro and in vivo studies.
In a 28 day oral repeat dose study in rats, no NOEL could be established, as changes in clinical
biochemistry possibly indicative of some perturbation of liver metabolism were observed at the
lowest dose used of 19.5 mg/kg/day. A Lowest Observed Effect Level (LOEL) of 19.5 mg/kg/day
was established.
Occupational Health and Safety
There is little potential for significant occupational exposure to the notified chemical in the
transport and storage of Vanquish or the plastics or metalworking fluid concentrates containing the
notified chemical. There may be exposure during the incorporation of the notified chemical into
plastics, reformulation to produce metalworking fluid concentrates and during use of metalworking
fluids containing the notified chemical.
During reformulation and end use, the main exposure route for the notified chemical will be
dermal. The notified chemical has low volatility, but there is potential for exposure by inhalation if
aerosols are formed. Exposure to the notified chemical after incorporation into plastic articles or
pellets used for further manufacture is likely to be low because the notified chemical will be
encapsulated within the polymer matrix, from which it will only slowly be released.
The notified chemical may be used in a wide range of plastics manufacturing facilities, with
addition procedures ranging from manual to fully automated. Exposure to the pure notified
chemical may occur during weighing and transferring the additive, or during connection and
disconnection of transfer hoses is an automated or semi-automated addition system is used. Due to
the corrosive and skin sensitising nature of the notified chemical, a high level of precautions is
required to prevent dermal and particularly ocular exposure. The Material Safety Data Sheet
6
(MSDS) for the notified chemical indicates that a face shield and elbow length impervious gloves
should be used, along with overalls, rubber boots and a rubber apron. A respirator is also
recommended if the risk of inhalation of spray exists. Chronic skin absorption may be reduced
because the corrosive nature of the notified chemical is likely to lead to awareness of
contamination and immediate washing.
For metalworking applications, it is possible to calculate a Margin of Exposure (MOE) for the
notified chemical in metalworking fluids. The total dermal exposure based on the calculations in
Section 6 is 29.3 mg notified chemical per day (or 0.42 mg/kg/day, based on 70 kg body weight),
while the calculated inhalation exposure is 0.009 礸/kg/day notified chemical. These estimates
assume no use of personal protective equipment, such as gloves and respirator. The exposure is
predominantly dermal, and concentrated on the hands (99 % of the dermal exposure).
In the repeat dose toxicity study, no NOAEL was determined, on the basis of changes in the liver
biochemistry. The lowest dose used was 19.5 mg/kg/day, and the NOAEL would be below this
level. Calculation can be made on the basis of the LOEL of 19.5 mg/kg/day. If 100 % dermal and
inhalation absorption is assumed, the MOE is 19.5/0.42 = 46.4. The MOE is therefore low, and the
use of personal protective equipment is required to reduce the risk associated with use of the
notified chemical in metalworking operations. The use of impervious gloves during handling of
articles which have been in contact with the metalworking fluids will be expected to reduce
exposure.
In addition, skin contact with the notified chemical at a concentration of 2000 ppm (in the
metalworking fluid concentrates) may result in skin sensitisation. The repeat insult patch test
indicated that the notified chemical is not a skin sensitiser in humans at 200 ppm, but as the pure
notified chemical was found to be a sensitiser in guinea pigs, higher concentrations than that used
in the human test must be treated as potential sensitisers, and gloves should be used by workers
handling the metalworking fluid concentrates.
Public Health
The public will be exposed to consumer products containing the notified chemical. However, the
notified chemical is present at a low concentration in the plastic material (maximum 0.2 %) and,
when incorporated in the polymeric matrix, it is expected that the public exposure to the notified
chemical during normal use is likely to be very low. In exceptional circumstances, the notified
chemical may leach into aqueous solutions; however, the concentration of the notified chemical in
the leachate is unlikely to be sufficient to cause skin irritation and is not expected to cause skin
sensitisation. Consequently, it is expected that the risk to the public from the use of products
containing the notified chemical is very low.
Environmental Effects
The notified chemical has been shown to be appreciably mobile in the plastics and polymers, and
is very susceptible to leaching. Accordingly, it is expected that much (if not all) of the chemical
will be removed from articles over their lifetimes, with most entering the sewer system. Release
will be widespread and diffuse.
It is not possible to accurately estimate the rate of loss, but in a worst case scenario if it is assumed
that 70 % of the 5 tonne annual import used in plastic are released each year, then the global
predicted environmental concentration (PEC) in sewage from this use pattern is found to be 10
礸/L. The notified chemical is readily incorporated into and degraded by sewage biomass, so on
exiting the sewage treatment plants the effluent is expected to contain a significantly lower
concentration than 10 礸/L of the chemical, which would be further diluted on release and mixing
with the receiving waters.
7
The chemical is highly toxic to aquatic species with the 48 hour acute LC50 against daphnia (the
most sensitive species) being 93 礸/L, and it is likely that the chronic MATC of the chemical
would be significantly less than this concentration. However it is unlikely that the chemical would
persist in receiving waters so chronic effects would probably not be realised.
Although the global PEC estimate for sewage of 10 礸/L indicates a safety margin of around one
order of magnitude, release to receiving waters is likely to be at significantly lower concentrations
which will increase the safety margin. Also, the chemical is rapidly degraded by photolysis (t1/2 =
8.25 hours), so once released to surface waters is not expected to persist.
The notified chemical is metabolised and degraded by sewage biota, although the metabolites
themselves may only be slowly mineralised.
It is concluded that although the notified chemical is highly toxic to aquatic organisms and a high
percentage of the material is likely to be released from plastic articles in wet or moist
environments, use of the notified chemical as a fungicide in plastics does not constitute a large
environmental hazard.
An additional 5 tonnes (maximum) of the notified chemical may be used as a biocide in metal
cutting fluids, and it is expected that in many cases spent fluid will be removed by waste
contractors and disposed of to sewer after either biological (activated sludge) or physico-chemical
treatment. The notified chemical would be expected to be degraded through biological processes,
or be removed in association with waste sludge and be destroyed by incineration. However, it is
estimated that in a worst case scenario up to 50 % of the material used in cutting oils (ie. around
2.5 tonnes per annum) may be released untreated to the sewer system, storm water drains, placed
into landfill or incinerated. In such cases local concentrations of the chemical in affected surface
waters may be significant, and toxic concentrations may be exceeded. Nevertheless, because of the
apparent ease of biodegradation under aerobic conditions and susceptibility to photolytic
degradation, the notified chemical is not expected to persist in these systems.
When used as a component of plastic/polymer articles, the notified chemical is unlikely to present
a hazard to the environment. However, inappropriate disposal of used metal cutting oil may lead to
transitory localised environmental damage.
1.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
? The notified chemical may be recommended to the National Occupational Health and
Safety Commission for consideration for inclusion in the NOHSC List of Designated
Hazardous Substances.
? Used metalworking fluids containing the notified chemical should be collected by licensed
waste disposal contractors for appropriate disposal.
To minimise occupational exposure to Vanquish the following guidelines and precautions should
be observed:
? Elbow length gloves, a face shield, chemical resistant industrial clothing and footwear
should be used while handling the notified chemical; where inhalation hazards exist, a
respirator should also be used;
? Impervious gloves, safety goggles, chemical resistant industrial clothing and footwear
should be used while handling the metalworking fluid concentrates containing the notified
chemical or articles which are wet with the metalworking fluids;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should then be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
8
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
9
2. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
Peroxide in Trigonox 301
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/783
Akzo Nobel Chemicals Pty Ltd of 6 Grand Avenue, Camellia NSW 2142 has submitted a standard
notification statement in support of their application for an assessment certificate for Peroxide in
Trigonox 301. The notified chemical will be imported by as a component of the commercial
product Trigonox 301. The commercial product will be used mainly as an initiator in
polypropylene manufacture. Up to 50 tonnes of the notified chemical will be imported each year
over the next five years.
2.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard assessment
The notified chemical was of very low acute oral toxicity and low acute dermal toxicity in rats. It
was a moderate skin irritant and a slight eye irritant in rabbits. At the highest non-irritating
concentration, the notified chemical was non-sensitising to the skin of guinea pigs. However, its
potential as a skin sensitiser when tested undiluted was equivocal.
Oral administration of the notified chemical to rats in a 28 day repeated dose toxicity study
resulted in significant toxicological effects at all doses, which included organ specific (liver and
kidney), clinical and haematological effects. Based on minimal hepatocyte enlargement observed
at the lowest dose, it was not possible to determine a NOAEL for the test substance, so a LOAEL
of 15 mg/kg bw/day was established for the study.
The notified chemical was considered non-mutagenic to the bacterial strains tested and non-
clastogenic in vitro in a chromosomal aberration assay.
The notified chemical is classified as a hazardous substance according to the NOHSC Approved
Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances based on the findings of skin irritation observed in
an acute dermal irritation study. The notified chemical is therefore classified as Irritant (Xi) with
the risk phrase R38 ?Irritating to Skin recommended.
The notified chemical is a dangerous good Class 5.2 (organic peroxide), with Packing Group II
assigned. If the concentration of notified chemical in Trigonox is > 40 to 45%, the product is a
Type D organic peroxide with packing method OP5 assigned. If the concentration of notified
chemical is > 45 to 52%, Trigonox is a Type B organic peroxide with packing method OP7
assigned. According to the ADG Code, Trigonox should be labelled as `Explosive' and
`Corrosive' if Type B.
The notified chemical is an oxidising substance and explosive. The risk phrase `R7 ?May cause
fire' is warranted, together with the safety phrases `S3/7 ?Keep container tightly closed in a cool
place' and `S14 ?Keep away from reducing agents, acids, alkalis and heavy metal compounds.
The imported product, Trigonox 301, containing the notified chemical is classified as a dangerous
good as it contains an organic peroxide. Trigonox 301 is also a hazardous substance due to the
presence of petroleum distillates, which are classified as hazardous substances. Accordingly, it
will require the appropriate risk phrases for petroleum distillates under hazardous substances
regulations.
10
Occupational Health and Safety
Transport and storage Incidental exposure to Trigonox 301 (containing 41-48% of the notified
chemical) may occur during transfer of the solution from drums to peroxide storage vessels as
inhalation of vapours and skin and eye contact may occur when connecting pumps and transfer
lines. Therefore, there is a risk of skin and eye irritation during this operation.
Exposure to the notified chemical is not expected during transport or other storage operations as
long as the packaging remains intact and dangerous goods precautions are taken. Exposure after a
spill would be controlled by use of the recommended practices for spillage clean up given in the
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) supplied by the notifier. Organic peroxides should be stored,
handled and disposed of according to AS 2714-1993. The risk of adverse health effects for these
workers is considered low.
Polymer manufacture and rubber compounding
Process workers may be exposed to the notified chemical during weighing of the peroxide solution
before addition to the reactor, when transferring the solution from the drum or storage vessel to the
mixing tank and when rinsing the empty containers. Exposure may occur by inhalation of vapours
and from skin contact with the liquid during these operations. Exposure during polymerisation is
negligible as the reactor is enclosed and additives are introduced to the reactor via a sealed
automatic dosing system.
Considering the use pattern described by the notifier, the predicted inhalation exposure for process
workers is estimated to be 8-mg/kg bw/day using the EASE model. This is considered a
reasonable worst-case estimate as the notified chemical is of low volatility. The estimate assumed
non-dispersive use, direct handling of the chemical (as a 45% solution), dilution ventilation and no
aerosol formation. According to the EASE model, exposure would be reduced approximately 20
times if local exhaust ventilation were employed. Again using the EASE model, dermal exposure
is estimated to be 0.54-5.4 mg/kg bw/day, assuming intermittent use, exposure to both hands and
100% skin absorption. Therefore, the combined estimated human dose (EHD) is 8.5-13.4 mg/kg
bw/day. No personal protection is assumed in the estimates.
For the critical health effect, namely hepatic damage, the Margin of Exposure (MOE = LOAEL/
EHD) calculated for the process workers is 1.1-1.8, indicating that effective control measures must
be in place to avoid health risk to workers. The data could be refined with atmospheric monitoring
and skin absorption test data, although an assumption of 100% skin absorption is reasonable given
the notified chemical is a skin irritant.
These estimates are based on the assumption that exposure to vapours or solution results from
continuous direct handling of the chemical and represent the worst-case scenario. Polymer
manufacture is a batch process and process workers may handle the chemical intermittently during
the day. Nevertheless, as dermal exposure to the notified chemical may lead to skin irritation,
control measures must be in place to minimise both dermal and inhalation exposure to prevent the
risk of systemic and topical toxicity. These include the automation and enclosure of transfer
processes and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment such as PVC or rubber gloves,
industrial standard overalls and safety goggles. Workers potentially exposed to the notified
chemical must be trained in the handling of organic peroxides.
The risk of adverse health effects arising from exposure to the notified chemical is low during the
polymer filling and packing process as the notified chemical will be either consumed or bound to
the polymer matrix during polymerisation and will not be available for absorption.
11
Laboratory analysis
As exposure is expected to be minor during laboratory sampling and testing, the risk of adverse
health effects is low, however, as skin contact may occur, protective equipment such as gloves and
laboratory coat should be worn to minimise irritant effects.
Drum recycling
As the empty drums are to be rinsed at the production site prior to collection by licensed
contractors, the risk of adverse health effects is low for these workers.
Plastic product production
As the notified chemical is not be available for absorption during plastics production, the risk of
adverse health effects arising from exposure to the notified chemical is negligible.
Public health
Trigonox 301 will be used for industrial purposes and will not be available for use by the public.
Once reacted with polypropylene, polyacrylate or rubber, the notified chemical becomes
chemically bound and will not be bioavailable. Consequently, the potential for public exposure to
the notified chemical during all phases of its life cycle is considered to be negligible.
Based on the above information, it is considered that the organic peroxide in Trigonox 301 will not
pose a significant hazard to public health when used in the proposed manner.
Environmental effects
The notified chemical will be used as an initiator to produce polymers used in the manufacture of
plastic products. Losses during processing, final product manufacture and recycling of scrap
plastic are expected to be low. The main environmental exposure will result from landfill of
residues in empty drums, losses from polymer production and landfill of used plastic articles.
Unreacted chemical is expected to be immobile due to its water insolubility and chemical
incorporated in the crosslinked matrix of the plastic polymer would be immobile and inert. The
ecotoxicity data for the notified chemical indicate that the chemical is not toxic to fish, daphnia
and algae up to the limit of its water solubility and does not affect sewage microorganisms at a
nominal concentration of 1000 mg/L. There should be little release to natural waters and as a result
environmental hazard from the proposed use will be low. While the chemical is not expected to
readily biodegrade, it should not bioaccumulate because of its low solubility and low aquatic
exposure. The chemical is unlikely to present a hazard to the environment when it is incorporated
into plastics.
2.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
It is recommended that the following health and physico-chemical hazard classification be referred
to the NOHSC Chemicals Standards Sub-committee for consideration:
R7 May cause fire
R38 Irritating to skin
S3/7 Keep container tightly closed in a cool place
S14 Keep away from reducing agents, acids, alkalis and heavy metal compounds
The notified chemical is a dangerous good Class 5.2 (organic peroxide), with Packing Group II
assigned. Therefore it is recommended that transport, storage and handling of the notified
chemical be in accordance with the Australian Dangerous Goods Code and Australian Standard
(AS) 2714-1993.
12
To minimise occupational exposure to the notified chemical, the following guidelines and
precautions should be observed:
? Direct handling procedures such as weighing should be conducted under local exhaust
ventilation;
? Transfer procedures should be enclosed and automated;
? Rinsing of empty drums should be conducted in a bunded area with effective general
ventilation at the user's site;
? Workers must wear overalls, face/eye protection and rubber or PVC gloves when handling
the notified chemical or mixtures containing the chemical; if inhalation exposure could
occur, then respiratory protection such as a half-face respirator with organic vapour
cartridge should be worn;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided; spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
If products and mixtures containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance
with the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, then workplace
practices and control procedures consistent with provisions of State and Territory hazardous
substances legislation must be in operation.
Guidance in selection of protective eyewear may be obtained from Australian Standard (AS) 1336
and Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1337; for industrial clothing, guidance may be
found in AS 3765.2; for impermeable gloves or mittens, in AS 2161.2; for respirators, in AS/NZS
1715 and AS/NZS 1716; or other internationally acceptable standards.
13
3. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
Disperbyk-180
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/801
Nuplex Resins (Aust) Pty Ltd of 49 ?1 Stephen Rd BOTANY NSW 2019 has submitted a limited
notification statement in support of their application for an assessment certificate for Disperbyk-
180. The notified polymer is intended to be used as a stabiliser in paints. Up to 1 tonne will be
imported in the first year increasing to 3 ?5 tonnes by the fifth year.
3.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
The notified polymer is of very low acute oral toxicity in rats, is not a skin irritant in rabbits
and is a slight eye irritant in rabbits. It is not determined to be a hazardous substance
according to NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classification of Hazardous Substances. The
notified polymer has a molecular weight greater than 1 000, and a high percentage of
molecular weight species between 500 and 1 000. Passage across biological membranes for
the latter is possible but would be slow. There is a high level of residual monomers.
However, only one is identified as a hazardous substance (a severe skin irritant) but is of
insufficient concentration to render the polymer a hazardous substance under NOHSC
Approved Criteria for Classification of Hazardous Substances. Overall, the notified polymer
is not considered hazardous to health.
Occupational Health and Safety
The notified polymer is imported in 25 L closed-head (bung-top) steel pails by road to the
customer's site. Exposure is possible in the event of accidental rupture of the pails.
The notified polymer is used in the manufacture of automotive enamel paints and a concrete
floor coating.
During paint manufacture the notified polymer is first weighed out into a 20 L drum under
local exhaust ventilation, mixed with solvent and pigment to a concentration of up to 10% in
a closed vessel, drummed off in 200 L drums and stored. The resultant product is introduced
into a closed vessel for mixing into paint under local exhaust ventilation and the paint is
drummed off into 200 L drums for distribution. Inhalation exposure is unlikely during these
operations due to the non-volatile nature of the polymer and the use of local exhaust
ventilation. There is potential for spillage when adding the polymer or polymer/pigment
solution to mixing vessels. To control exposure to the skin, workers wear impervious gloves,
goggles and coveralls. These precautions coupled with the likely low hazard of the notified
polymer means that there is a low risk of adverse health effects to paint manufacturing
workers. As drumming off is automatic and conducted under local exhaust ventilation, there
is little risk of health effects to workers at this stage.
Laboratory testing during paint development or production should involve small samples and
is conducted in ventilated fume cupboards. This together with the wearing of laboratory
coats, gloves and eyewear is expected to minimise the risk of health effects to workers.
During spray painting procedures, worker exposure will be limited through a combination of
engineering controls such as laminar spray booths and personal protective equipment
consisting of impervious nylon overalls, calico hoods, cartridge type respirators and nylon
gloves. Under these circumstances, given the likely low hazard of the notified polymer and
14
the equipment used to control exposure, the health risk is considered low.
It should be noted that the final applied paint products, for which a typical Material Safety
Data Sheet (MSDS) was supplied by the notifier, contain potentially hazardous solvents and
that appropriate measures are expected to be taken to control of exposure to these
components. These solvents have NOHSC exposure standards. Thus, it is important that the
final paint is applied and overspray controlled in a manner described in for example the
NOHSC Spray Painting Guidance Material and that employers ensure that airborne exposure
is maintained below the exposure standards for these solvents are adhered to in the
workplace. These standards are as follows: n-butyl acetate, 150 ppm TWA, 200 ppm STEL;
xylene, 80 ppm TWA, 150 ppm STEL; n-butanol, 50 ppm TWA; propylene glycol
monomethyl ether, 100 ppm TWA, 150 ppm STEL. The NOHSC List of Designated
Hazardous Substances lists xylene and n-butanol as flammable. In addition xylene would
render the paints harmful by inhalation and in contact with the skin. Although n-butyl acetate
is not listed in the NOHSC List of Designated Hazardous Substances, the ACGIH TLV
recommendation was based on human observation of eye, nose and throat irritation.
Following curing of the paint, the polymer will be cross-linked with other paint components
to form a high molecular weight stable film. In this form, the polymer is essentially
unavailable for absorption and thus the health risk to workers from the notified polymer after
paint curing would be negligible.
Manufacturing of the floor coating will be conducted by a single company. The notified
polymer is imported in 20 L open-head steel pails by road to the customer's sites. Exposure
is possible in the event of accidental rupture of the pails.
Each batch of coating involves the addition of a small amount (2 kg) of the notified polymer
to an enclosed mixing vessel under local exhaust ventilation. As the weighing out and
addition is conducted by workers wearing respirator, safety goggles, PVC gloves and
overalls, inhalation and dermal exposure should be negligible and the health risk low. Once
the polymer is mixed in the coating at a concentration of 0.1% subsequent exposure of
workers during drumming off and applying the coating to concrete floors should be
negligible and the health risk low. However, components of the manufactured coating,
Sikafloor 261 Component A, are listed on the NOHSC List of Designated Hazardous
Substances and render the coating hazardous. Diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A renders the
coating irritating to skin and eyes and sensitising to skin. Glycidyl ether of C12-C14 alcohols
also renders the coating sensitising to skin. Following mixing of the coating, drum filling is
conducted under local exhaust ventilation and the workers wear a respirator, safety goggles,
PVC gloves and overalls to control the risk of irritation or sensitisation. Under these
circumstances the risk should be controlled. Few details about the method of application
were provided except that the coating would be used on factory floors or outdoor areas and
that, typically, a half-face respirator, impervious gloves, goggles and overalls would be worn
to control the risk of irritation or sensitisation.
Public Health
The public can potentially come into contact with the notified polymer in the event of
accidental spillage during transport and when it is a component of a hard film on automobiles
or concrete floors. The risk to public health arising from these scenarios is expected to be
very low.
Environmental Effects
The polymer will be used in the manufacture of enamel paints for new motor vehicles and in a
coating for concrete floors.
15
The majority of waste containing the polymer will be generated during the manufacture and
application of coatings (up to 1.5 tonnes/annum). The waste will be disposed of by incineration,
producing water, carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, of by landfill where some of the polymer
may leach because of its solubility. However, the majority of the polymer will be in the form of
overspray from the automotive application and will be present within the cured inert coating
matrix, and unavailable for leaching.
Once applied to the metal panels of motor vehicles the notified polymer will be incorporated in a
hard, durable, inert film and will not present a significant hazard. Any fragments, chips and flakes
of the lacquer will be inert and of little concern. The metal panels coated with the polymer are
likely to be either recycled for steel reclamation or be placed into landfill at the end of their useful
life. During steel reclamation the polymer would be incinerated in the blast furnaces and
converted to water vapour and oxides of carbon and nitrogen.
The inert coating product containing the notified polymer applied to the concrete floors would be
expected to remain associated with the concrete floor until the end of its useful life when the
concrete would likely be broken up and disposed of to landfill with other demolition waste. The
polymer is unlikely to leach from landfill as it is cured and would remain inert.
Given the above, environmental exposure and the overall environmental hazard is expected to be
low.
3.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to the notified polymer and paints containing it the following
guidelines and precautions should be observed:
? The paints containing the notified polymer should be applied in accordance with the
National Guidance Material for Spray Painting;
? Employers should ensure that NOHSC exposure standards for all of the components of the
final paint mix are not exceeded in the workplace;
? Safety goggles should be selected and fitted in accordance with Australian Standard to
comply with Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1337; industrial clothing should
conform to the specifications detailed in AS 3765.2; impermeable gloves should conform
to AS/NZS 2161.2; all occupational footwear should conform to AS/NZS 2210;
? Spillage should be avoided. Spillage should be cleaned up promptly with absorbents which
should be put into containers for disposal;
? Good personal hygiene should be practised to minimise the potential for ingestion;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified polymer are hazardous to health in accordance with the NOHSC
Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substance, workplace practices and control
procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
16
4. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
HIMER EP-208
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/824
Sharp Corporation of Australia Pty Ltd of 1 Huntingwood Drive, Huntingwood NSW 2148 (ACN:
003039 405) has submitted a limited notification statement in support of their application for an
assessment certificate for HIMER EP-208. The notified polymer will be used as a component of
toners and developers used in photocopiers, laser printers and fax machines. 2.77 Tonnes of the
notified chemical will be imported per annum for each of the first five years.
4.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
The notified polymer is a powder of mean particulate size of 180 祄 (95 % > 45 祄), ie it is
possibly inspirable but not respirable.
The toner product AR-ST17-B, which contains the notified polymer at >85%, is of very low acute
oral toxicity in rats (LD50 > 2 000 mg/kg), was not a skin or eye irritant and did not result in
mutagenic activity in an Ames test.
Acute dermal and acute inhalation toxicity studies, skin or respiratory sensitisation studies, and
chromosome aberration studies have not been conducted for the notified polymer or the product
AR-ST17-B.
Based on the limited toxicological data supplied for the notified polymer the substance cannot be
classified as a hazardous substance against the Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous
Substances.
Occupational Health and Safety
There is little potential for significant occupational exposure to the notified polymer in the
transport and storage of the toner and developer products that contain the notified polymer.
Service personnel may experience inhalation and dermal exposure to toner and developer powders
while cleaning and servicing the inside of photocopies, printers and fax machines (particularly the
exterior of the processing unit). As there may be a low level of toner and developer dust inside
photocopies, printers and fax machines, service personnel should wear personal protective
equipment, such as a dust mask, to limit inhalation exposure to the notified polymer. The high
molecular weight of the notified polymer indicates that dermal absorption would be minimal.
Office workers may experience infrequent dermal exposure when changing the toner or developer,
while clearing paper jams or cleaning up small spills. Due to the enclosed design of toner
cartridges and the short duration required to perform these functions, exposure to the notified
polymer should be minimal. The instructions on the cartridge label and instruction sheet on how
to insert a new cartridge should be followed. The high molecular weight of the notified polymer
indicates that dermal absorption would be minimal. As there may be a low level of toner and
developer dust in the immediate vicinity of photocopies, faxes and printers when they are
operating, the area around them should be well ventilated.
Based on the low toxicological hazard presented by the polymer and the expected low exposures,
the health risk posed to service personnel and office workers by the notified polymer is low.
17
However, it should be noted that the toners and developers, which contain the notified polymer,
also contain potentially hazardous ingredients such as carbon black, iron oxide and magnesium
oxide. It is important that appropriate measures are taken to control any occupational exposure to
these components. Employers should ensure that the exposure standards for these agents are
adhered to in the workplace.
Public Health
Public exposure to the notified polymer will predominantly occur from dermal contact with printed
media. Once printed, the notified polymer is heat-cured onto paper making it biologically
unavailable. Occasional exposure will also occur from the filling of toner or developer bottles and
changing of toner cartridges. A mean particle size of 180 祄 (95% >45 祄) greatly reduces the
potential inhalation hazard; consequently the main toxicological hazard is likely to be mechanical
irritation by inert particulate material to the eye or the respiratory system. Therefore, the potential
hazard to the public throughout of the life of the notified polymer is considered to be low.
Environmental Effects
The vast majority of the polymer will be fused with the toner to paper during the copying process.
Waste paper is disposed of by high temperature incineration, recycling or deposition to landfill.
Sludge from paper recycling containing the notified polymer will be disposed to landfill or
incinerated. In all cases, the polymer should be destroyed either through the vigorous chemical
processes or slow biological or abiotic processes.
Following accidental spillage of the polymer during replacement of toner/developer or transport,
powder wastes would be sent to landfill or incineration facilities. A maximum of 151 kg/year of
notified polymer from residues in spent bottles and toner cartridges is likely to be sent to landfill.
Disposal would be widespread across Australia. Leaching of any uncured polymer from landfill is
not expected given the low water solubility.
Bioaccumulation would be prevented by the polymer's large molecular size and low water
solubility. Overall, the environmental hazard due to the introduction and use of the notified
polymer should be low.
4.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to HIMER EP-208 the following guidelines and precautions
should be observed:
? Service personnel should wear a disposable dust mask to minimise inhalation exposure to
the toner or developer;
? Photocopies, faxes and printers utilising toners and developers containing the notified
polymer should be located in a well ventilated area when operating to minimise the
concentration of airborne particles;
? Employers should ensure that the exposure standards for ingredients in the toners and
developers are adhered to in the workplace;
? Spillage of the notified polymer should be avoided. Spillages should be swept or wiped
promptly and put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) should be easily accessible to
employees.
18
If products containing the notified polymer are hazardous to health in accordance with the National
Occupational Health and Safety Commission Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous
Substances, workplace practices and control procedures consistent with State and Territory
hazardous substances regulations must be in operation.
19
5. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
t-amyl peroxyoctoate
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/835
Atofina (Australia) Pty Ltd (ACN No. 000 330 772) of 270 ?280 Hammond Rd DANDENONG
SOUTH VIC 3175 has submitted a standard notification statement in support of their application
for an assessment certificate for t-amyl peroxyoctoate. The notified chemical is intended to be
used as a polymerisation initiator. Less than 10 tonnes of the notified chemical will be imported
per annum for each of the first five years.
5.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
The notified chemical is of very low acute oral and low acute dermal toxicity in rats and
rabbits, respectively. The analogue TBEC exhibited low acute inhalation toxicity in rats (4-
hour LC50 = 42.2 mg/L) according to the MSDS for the notified chemical. It is not an eye
irritant but is slight to moderate skin irritant in rabbits. TBEC, is not a skin sensitiser in
guinea pigs.
TBEC, in a repeat dose oral toxicity study in rats, exhibited treatment related changes to the
stomach mucosa at 1 000 and 550 mg/kg/day. The NOAEL was established at 150
mg/kg/day based on the absence of treatment related effects at this dose.
The notified chemical displayed mutagenic activity in a bacterial reverse mutation assay, but
TBEC exhibited no genotoxic activity in vivo in a mouse micronucleus test.
TBEC was investigated in a four week repeat dose dermal study for its ability to produce
DNA damage and sustained epidermal hyperplasia in mouse skin. It increased dermal
cellularity, however, there was no significant increase in induction of 8-OH-dG, Ha-ras
mutations or epidermal hyperplasia. It was considered that this finding in isolation is an
insufficient index of carcinogenic potential.
Based on the data supplied the notified chemical would not be classified as a hazardous
substance under the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances.
The notified chemical is classified as a Dangerous Good - Organic Peroxide - Class 5.2 under
the Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail. In addition it
is subject to Australian Standard AS2714-1993 The Storage and Handling of Hazardous
materials ?Class 5.2 Substances (Organic Peroxides).
Occupational Health and Safety
Transportation of the notified chemical will be in accordance with the Australian Code for
the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail. During import and transport of the
notified chemical, there is unlikely to be any worker exposure, except in the event of a spill.
In addition, drivers of vehicles of dangerous goods are trained in emergency procedures.
Exposure after a spill of organic peroxide would be controlled by the emergency procedures
described in the Initial Emergency Response Guide Number 32.
The notified chemical is transported to a single customer site for use in a purpose built reactor
for the production of acrylic polymers. It is transported to this site on a just in time basis for
production of batches using a full pack of the chemical. If there is a delay the chemical will
be placed into an existing peroxide store for periods of up to 3 days. Storage is at less than
20
10癈 to avoid self-accelerating decomposition which occurs at 45癈 and may generate
flammable vapours which could autoignite according to the MSDS. For transport and storage
workers, this appears to be the main health risk as the chemical is not classified as a
hazardous substance according to the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous
Substances.
Laboratory testing involves small amounts of the notified chemical and reactions are
conducted inside a fume hood. Laboratory workers wear laboratory coat, safety shoes, safety
glasses and rubber gloves to control exposure and the risk of adverse health effects is low.
The notified chemical is manually added to a weigh vessel which automatically feeds the
main reactor. This is performed under local exhaust ventilation so that inhalation exposure is
controlled. However, dermal exposure is possible during this addition and during rinsing of
the container with solvent. Workers wear overalls, safety boots, goggles and gloves during
transfer operations to limit exposure. Therefore, the risk of adverse health effects is low.
Once the chemical has been added to the weigh vessel it is in an enclosed system. Exposure
is possible in the event of a runaway reaction in the reactor but a range of engineering
controls are in place for this eventuality. The notified chemical in incorporated into a
polymer at a maximum concentration of 2% so the health risk for any workers coming into
contact with the notified chemical at this stage is negligible.
The polymer produced using the notified chemical is subsequently blended into coatings for
use on metal substrates. The health risk to workers coming into contact with the notified
chemical in these coatings is no greater than that for the polymer itself, which as noted above
is negligible.
Public Health
The notified chemical and any subsequent polymer solutions or paint products will be used in
industry only. The public will come in contact with the notified chemical only after paint products
have been applied to metal substrates to form a coating film. The notified chemical in the paint
film will not be available for absorption and the public health risk is negligible.
Environmental Effects
There will be little release of the notified chemical to the environment resulting from its proposed
use. Any notified chemical released to the soil or water compartment as a consequence of
accidental spills would be adsorbed by the soil. However, the compound would be rapidly
decomposed to carbon dioxide, t-amyl alcohol and 2-ethyl hexanol, or possibly a carboxylic acid
derived from 2-ethyl hexanol. These alcohols are volatile and once released to the air
compartment, would be decomposed through reaction with hydroxyl radicals producing water and
carbon dioxide.
Although likely to be toxic to aquatic organisms and slightly toxic to sewage bacteria, notified
chemical released into the water compartment is expected to undergo rapid decomposition
catalysed by traces of ferrous/ferric ions to t-amyl alcohol and 2-ethyl hexanol. These two
compounds are at worst slightly toxic to aquatic organisms. It is unlikely that they would reach
significant concentrations in the environment as a result of breakdown of the notified chemical and
would decompose once released to the air compartment.
While the notified chemical may have potential for bioaccumulation, it is not expected to be
persistent in the environment, so the possibility for bioaccumulation will be reduced.
The environmental hazard from the notified chemical is considered to be small when it is used as a
catalyst for emulsion polymerisation in the manner indicated by the notifier.
21
5.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to the notified chemical the following guidelines and
precautions should be observed:
? The storage and handling of the notified chemical and other organic peroxides to be in
accordance with Australian Standard 2714-1993 The Storage and Handling of Hazardous
Chemicals and Materials.
? Safety goggles should be selected and fitted in accordance with Australian Standard (AS)
1336 to comply with Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1337; industrial clothing
should conform to the specifications detailed in AS 2919 and AS 3765.1; impermeable
gloves should conform to AS/NZS 2161.2; all occupational footwear should conform to
AS/NZS 2210;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should be put into containers for disposal;
? Good personal hygiene should be practised to minimise the potential for ingestion;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
The transportation of the notified chemical and other organic peroxides to be in accordance with
the Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail.
22
6. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
NEW OLOA 2508N
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/856
Chevron Oronite Australia of Level 22, 385 Bourke Street, MELBOURNE VIC 3000 (ARBN 001
010 037) has submitted a standard notification statement in support of their application for an
assessment certificate for NEW OLOA 2508N. The notified polymer is intended to be used as a
carrier fluid for detergent/dispersant additives in unleaded petrol to control the formation of port
fuel injector deposits and intake valve deposits. Initially 10 to 20 tonnes of the notified polymer
may be imported per annum increasing up to 250 tonnes over an unspecified time period.
6.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
By analogy, the toxicity of the notified polymer is not expected to differ substantially from that of
OLOA 200 Capped Polybutylene Oxide RS 4999 and OLOA 2509H. New OLOA 2509H is
expected to have very low acute oral, dermal and inhalation toxicity. It may be irritating to skin
and eyes but is not expected to be sensitizing to skin. Upon repeated exposure, organ or systemic
effects, neurotoxic effects or reproductive effects are not expected. New OLOA 2509H is not
expected to be genotoxic. On the basis of the data supplied, OLOA 2509H or OLOA 200 Capped
Polybutylene Oxide RS 4999 would not be classified as hazardous substances under the Approved
Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances. By analogy, the same is considered for NEW
OLOA 2509H.
Occupational Health and Safety
The blending of the additive package, containing the notified polymer at 15 to 40%, into petrol for
distribution to service stations or for subsequent packaging into retail products will occur in
automated, closed systems. Exposure to the additive package containing the most concentrated
forms of the notified polymer is expected to be limited to incidental skin contact to the additive
package is most likely during the procedures involved in connection and disconnection of pump
lines and during sampling for laboratory analysis. Other scenarios of exposure to the notified
polymer are at concentrations of less than 1% and this would be limited to incidental skin contact
also. The toxicological profile, mode of use, use of personal protective gear and in situ
engineering controls, indicate that significant risks to human health through occupational exposure
to the notified polymer are unlikely.
Public Health
No significant exposure to the notified polymer is anticipated during transport and product
formulation. Members of the public may, however, make skin contact with the notified polymer
when using petrol or aftermarket concentrate which contain the notified polymer. The amounts to
which the public are likely to be exposed are expected to be minimal and exposure is expected to
be brief and intermittent. Inhalation exposure is expected to be minimal, as the notified chemical
is not expected to be volatile. Where exposure does occur, the notified chemical is unlikely to
pose a significant hazard given its low toxicity, low concentration in final uses by consumers and
its high molecular weight. Based on the use pattern and hazard the notified polymer is considered
not to pose a significant risk to public health.
23
Environmental Effects
The environmental hazard from the notified polymer is low when it is blended into petrol and used
in the manner indicated.
There is little potential for significant release of the notified polymer during the blending
operations which will be performed at petrochemical facilities. A maximum of 0.5 tonne of the
notified polymer may be released each year as a result of leaks and spills during blending, and
most of this is expected to be recovered into waste sludge and incinerated or placed into landfill.
Some release will inevitably occur as a result of petrol spills during distribution to motorists. This
is estimated as a maximum of 0.5 tonne per annum and release will be in a very diffuse manner.
Some of the notified polymer will be formulated into aftermarket concentrates and small quantities
of the concentrate will be left in the emptied bottles used after vehicle owners have individually
treated their fuel. Empty bottles containing around 350 kg annually of notified polymer would be
disposed of with domestic and industrial garbage to landfill, and release will be in a diffuse
manner.
The notified polymer is not readily biodegradable, although it appears to be ultimately degradable.
The polymer has low water solubility and a reasonably high octanol/water partition coefficient,
and consequently if released to the soil or water compartments is expected to bind to, and become
associated with the organic component of soils and sediments. Any material released to the soil
compartment (eg. from petrol spills) would firstly become associated with the organic component
of the soil, and slowly mineralise to water and oxides of carbon through biological processes. The
same fate is expected for any polymer placed into landfill with waste sludge from refineries.
Except in the case of transport accident, very little of the polymer is likely to enter the water
compartment. Any polymer released to water would become associated with aquatic sediments and
slowly mineralise through biological processes. The polymer is not expected to have high potential
for bioaccumulation.
The notified polymer shows some toxicity to sensitive aquatic species such as rainbow trout,
although is apparently non-toxic to water fleas and algae up to the limits of its solubility.
However, the reasonably high octanol/water partition coefficient indicates that if released to the
soil or water compartments the polymer is expected to bind to, and become associated with the
organic component of soils and sediments. This will mitigate any toxic potential of the material.
There is considerable evidence that modern motor vehicles running on fuel containing additives
show significant improvements in exhaust emission of hydrocarbons, CO and NOx compared with
vehicles using unsupplemented fuel. However, the formation and control of engine deposits, their
effects on fuel combustion efficiency and on the composition of exhaust emissions is a very
complex subject. Factors influencing engine operating parameters may include the composition of
the base fuel as well as the presence of and concentration of control additives in the fuel.
Nevertheless, the available evidence indicates that the use of the notified polymer as a fuel additive
has no significant deleterious effects on the quality or quantity of noxious or toxic vehicular
exhaust emissions, and overall use of the polymer as intended is not considered to pose a hazard to
the environment.
24
6.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to NEW OLOA 2508N the following guidelines and
precautions should be observed:
Occupational Health and Safety Matters
To minimise occupational exposure to additive packages that contain the notified polymer the
following guidelines and precautions should be observed:
? Workers should receive regular instruction on good occupational hygiene practices in order
to minimise personal contact, and contamination of the work environment with additive
packages.
? Chemical impervious clothing and gloves are necessary to prevent skin contact -
consideration should be given to the ambient environment, physical requirements and other
substances present when selecting protective clothing and gloves. Good hygiene practices
dictate that eye protection be worn routinely. Workers should be trained in the proper fit,
correct use and maintenance of their protective gear. PPE guidance in the selection,
personal fit and maintenance of personal protective equipment can be obtained from:
Protective eyewear: AS 1336; AS/NZS 1337.
Chemical impermeable clothing: AS 3765.2.
Impermeable gloves: AS 2161.2.
Occupational footwear: AS/NZS 2210.
? The notified polymer is not determined to be a hazardous substance. The additive package
may contain hazardous ingredients making the overall package hazardous. Therefore,
workplace practices, control procedures and hazard communication products consistent
with provisions of State, Territory and Commonwealth legislation based on the National
Model Regulations for the Control of Workplace Hazardous Substances must be in
operation.
? A copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet should be easily accessible to all workers.
25
7. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
CGX AO 145
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/862
Ciba Specialty Chemicals of 235 Settlement Road Thomastown, Victoria 3074 (ABN No. 97 005
061 469) has submitted a standard notification statement in support of their application for an
assessment certificate for CGX AO 145. The notified chemical is intended to be used as an
antioxidant additive in polymer manufacture and also as a chain terminator for polymerisation
reactions. Up to 3.2 tonnes of the notified chemical will be imported per annum during the first
five years.
7.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard assessment
Toxicological data have been provided for the notified chemical. The notified chemical was shown
to possess very low oral and low dermal toxicity. In a repeated dose oral toxicity test in rats, a
NOAEL of 10mg/kg/day was established based on incidence of liver hypertrophy.
A skin irritation test in rabbits showed persistent significant erythema and oedema indicating that
the notified chemical was dermally irritating. An eye irritation test revealed minimal ocular injury.
A skin sensitisation study in guinea pigs revealed that the notified chemical was capable of
inducing dermal allergic responses. In genotoxicity tests, the chemical was shown to be neither
mutagenic nor clastogenic in vitro.
Lipophilicity of the notified chemical is very high suggesting that dermal exposure is likely to
result in substantial absorption.
According to the NOHSC Approved Criteria, on the basis of these toxicological data the notified
chemical should be determined hazardous and classified Irritant (Xi) with the risk phrases R38 ?br>
Irritating to skin and R43 ?May cause sensitisation by skin contact.
Occupational Health and Safety
The notified chemical will not be manufactured in Australia but imported in liquid form (50-80%)
in steel drums. Occupational exposure to the notified polymer is unlikely during import, transport
and storage and would only be envisaged following accidental puncture of the drums. If exposure
does occur, skin irritation would be expected. Repeated dermal exposure could result in dermal
sensitisation. Eye irritation might also occur. Drums will remain unopened prior to use and so
repeated exposure to the notified chemical with the risk of allergic sensitisation of transport and
storage workers is unlikely. Thus, the health risk for these workers is low.
The notified chemical will be either used as a PVC polymerisation terminator or incorporated into
a polymer masterbatch for processing into moulded articles. Dermal and ocular exposure to the
notified chemical from spillage may occur during initial weighing and charging of the blender
vessel or polymerisation reactor with the imported liquid product. Dermal exposure to the notified
chemical may also occur following contact with extrusion masterbatch granules. However, at this
point, the notified chemical is embedded in the polymer matrix. In addition, inhalation exposure is
possible from fugitive dusts generated from packaging of masterbatch granules or from vapours
liberated from the hot extrusion process.
26
Maintenance workers are likely also to experience dermal contact with the notified chemical
during routine machinery upkeep. Similarly, skin contact may occur during cleaning and quality
analysis testing.
Severe health effects may occur following exposure to the notified chemical. Dermal exposure
may induce skin irritation and in the long term, skin sensitisation. High lipophilicity suggests the
chemical would be absorbed via the skin. If eye contact occurs, local irritation may also result. The
dermal sensitisation potential also indicates the possibility of respiratory sensitisation following
repeated inhalation. Liver effects were observed also after exposure to the notified chemical in a
repeat dose study. Notwithstanding the seriousness of acute dermal and ocular irritation, the
unpredictable nature of allergic reactivity and long-term consequences of occupational
sensitisation together with possible liver effects with repeated exposure indicate that contact with
the notified chemical must be prevented. For these reasons, it is essential that exposure is
controlled through a combination of personal protective equipment and engineering controls such
as local exhaust ventilation at transfer points and hot sections of the extruder. The MSDS for the
imported product containing the notified chemical recommends personal protective equipment
consisting of overalls, eye protection and long PVC or nitrile gloves. Use of a barrier cream on
exposed skin is recommended on the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). However, no
information has been provided to allow an assessment of the effectiveness of this measure in
preventing exposure or absorption.
Following curing of moulded articles, the notified chemical will be immobilised in a polymer
matrix. In this form, it is unavailable for absorption and thus the health risk to workers from the
notified chemical during handling of masterbatch granules and moulded articles would be
negligible.
Public Health
The potential for public exposure to CGX AO 145 during all phases of its life cycle is considered
to be very low. It is considered that the notified chemical will not pose a significant risk to public
health when used in the proposed manner.
Environmental Effects
The notified chemical will be imported as an 80% component of the commercial product Irganox
1141. It will be incorporated into polymers at between 0.08 % and 0.4 % to impart improved
resistance to oxidation.
Production waste containing the notified chemical, estimated to be between 10?0 kg per annum,
will be disposed of to landfill where the chemical is expected to be immobile. The main
environmental exposure is expected to result from landfill of articles containing the chemical at the
end of their useful lifetime, where the chemical is expected to be immobile and inert. Limited data
indicates leaching from the plastic matrix should not occur. In the event of incineration of plastic
end products, the chemical would degrade into water and oxides of carbon. Hence, the chemical is
unlikely to present a hazard to the environment when it is incorporated into plastics.
The notified chemical did not prove to be readily biodegradable and, although the potential exists
for bioaccumulation, release of the chemical into the aquatic environment is expected to be
minimal, thereby reducing the potential for bioaccumulation. The ecotoxicity data for the notified
chemical indicate that the chemical is not toxic to fish, daphnia or sewage sludge micro-organisms
up to its apparent limit of solubility in water. However, the notified chemical shows some toxicity
to algae, with an observed inhibitory effect on growth at a loading rate of 12.5 mg/L,
corresponding to a concentration of 0.011 mg/L. However, the notified chemical is not expected to
reach natural waters if the proposed usage patterns are maintained and, as a result, the
environmental hazard is anticipated to be low.
27
7.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to CGX AO 145 the following guidelines and precautions
should be observed:
? Skin contact with the notified chemical should be eliminated during occupational use;
? Protective eyewear, chemical resistant industrial clothing and footwear and impermeable
gloves should be used during occupational use of the products containing the notified
chemical. Where engineering controls and work practices do not reduce vapour and
particulate exposure to safe levels, an organic vapour negative pressure respirator should
also be used;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should then be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
? As the notified chemical is a skin sensitiser, health surveillance should be conducted for
any workers who have been identified in the workplace risk assessment as having
significant potential or actual exposure to the chemical.
The following regulatory action is recommended:
? Nomination of the notified chemical to the National Occupational Health and Safety
Commission for consideration for inclusion in the NOHSC List of Designated Hazardous
Substances.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
Guidance in selection of protective eyewear may be obtained from Australian Standard (AS) 1336
and Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1337; for industrial clothing, guidance may be
found in AS 3765.2; for impermeable gloves or mittens, in AS 2161.2; for occupational footwear,
in AS/NZS 2210; for respirators, in AS/NZS 1715 and AS/NZS 1716.
28
8. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
bis(2,4-dicumylphenyl) pentaerythritol diphosphite (Doverphos S-9228)
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/866
B F Specialty Chemicals (Australia) Pty Ltd of Unit 9, 43-51 College St, Gladesville, NSW 2111
(ABN 31 051 283 866) has submitted a standard notification statement in support of their
application for an assessment certificate for Doverphos S-9228. The notified chemical is intended
to be used as an antioxidant/stabiliser for thermoplastic engineering polymers. Up to two tonnes of
the notified chemical will be imported per annum for each of the first five years.
8.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
The notified chemical is of very low acute oral toxicity in rats (LD50 > 5000 mg/kg) and of low
acute dermal toxicity in rats (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg). It is non-irritant to rabbit skin, and a slight
irritant to rabbit eyes. It is not sensitising to the skin of guinea pigs. The notified chemical was not
found to be mutagenic or clastogenic in three in vitro genotoxicity tests.
In a 28 day repeat dose oral toxicity study, a NOEL of 200 mg/kg/day was established. Some
changes in clinical biochemistry indicative of metabolic disturbance were observed in the males at
500 mg/kg/day, but similar changes with the exception of a non-statistically significant increase in
total bilirubin level were not observed in the females. Some statistically significant differences in
haematological parameters were observed for animals treated at 500 mg/kg/day after a 14 day
recovery period, but it is not clear whether these differences were related to treatment with the
notified chemical.
The notified chemical is not classified as a hazardous substance in accordance with the Approved
Criteria. It has been approved for use in polymers intended for food contact by the US Food and
Drug Administration, as well as in Canada, the EU, Switzerland, Japan and Brazil.
The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the notified chemical indicates that it is not a
hazardous substance, but that skin and eye irritation may occur on prolonged or repeated contact.
Respiratory irritation on exposure to dust and gastric disturbance if swallowed may also occur.
Hazardous decomposition products may be formed if the notified chemical is overheated (above
240oC).
Occupational Health and Safety
There is little potential for significant occupational exposure to the notified chemical in the
transport and storage of Doverphos S-9228. There may be exposure during the incorporation of the
notified chemical into polymer pellets. After the notified chemical has been incorporated into the
polymer pellets, it will be present at low concentrations (0.05 ?0.15 %) and will be encapsulated
in the polymer matrix. Little exposure is therefore expected during production of articles from the
pellets containing the notified chemical.
During the production of the polymer pellets containing the notified chemical, the main exposure
route for the notified chemical will be dermal, if compacted pellets of the notified chemical are
used, and dermal or inhalation, if the notified chemical is handled in powder form. The notifier
indicates that workers will wear protective clothing and gloves while handling the compacted
pellets, and that a dust mask will also be used if the notified chemical is handled in powder form.
Given the low toxicity of the notified chemical, these measure should be sufficient to minimise the
risk to workers handling Doverphos S-9228.
29
Public Health
The notified chemical is not available for sale to the public and will be used as an ingredient in
plastics manufacture. Members of the public may make dermal contact with plastic articles
containing the notified chemical and may eat or drink foodstuffs that may have been in contact
with plastic articles containing the notified chemical. The risk to public health from the notified
chemical is likely to be low because the notified chemical is present at low concentrations and is
likely to be largely contained within the plastic matrix.
Environmental Effects
The environmental hazard from the notified chemical is not expected to be high when it is used for
the manufacture of household plastic articles and motor vehicle parts as indicated by the notifier.
Very little of the notified chemical is expected to be released during manufacturing processes. The
notifier estimates that this release would be 4 kg per annum at the maximum import volume of 2
tonnes (0.2 %). However, some slow release of the chemical may occur as a result of everyday use
and cleaning of the polymer articles, and this is likely to enter the sewer system with discarded
cleaning water. In the sewer the chemical will become strongly associated with sediments.
Plastic articles containing the new compound such as containers, food wrap, household appliances
or automotive parts are unlikely to be recycled, and consequently at the end of their useful lives
will be discarded. The discarded articles are most is likely to be placed into landfill or incinerated.
If the articles are placed into landfill, the notified chemical is likely to be slowly released as a
consequence of the slow degradation of the polymer matrix in which it is encapsulated. Once
released, it is expected to become associated with the organic component of soils and sediments.
The chemical is not readily biodegradable. However, once released and adsorbed to soils and
sediments in a landfill it is expected to be slowly degraded through the biological and abiotic
processes operative in these situations.
Very little of the compound is expected to enter the water compartment and so exposure to aquatic
organisms is expected to be low. The chemical is not toxic to those aquatic species against which it
has been tested up to the limits of its water solubility, and so any release to the water compartment
would entail a low environmental hazard. The new chemical is not readily biodegradable and the
high value for Log Pow and low water solubility indicate high potential for bioaccumulation.
However, any potential for bioaccumulation will be mitigated by the expected low exposure to the
water compartment and the moderate molecular weight (852).
8.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to Doverphos S-9228 the following guidelines and precautions
should be observed:
? Safety goggles, chemical resistant industrial clothing and footwear and impermeable gloves
should be used while handling the notified chemical; where engineering controls and work
practices do not reduce particulate exposure to safe levels, respiratory protection should
also be used;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should then be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
30
9. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
Polymer in Lamal HSA Slip
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/870
Rohm and Haas Australia Pty Ltd of Floor, 969 Burke Road Camberwell VIC 3124 (ACN 004 513
188) and Coates Australia Pty Ltd of 323 Chisholm Road Auburn NSW 2144 (ACN 000 079 550)
have submitted a limited notification statement in support of their application for an assessment
certificate for Polymer in Lamal HSA Slip. The notified polymer is intended to be used as one
component of a two pack laminating adhesive for plastic and/or aluminium films used to package
dry food and confectionery. Between 30 and 60 tonnes of the notified chemical will be imported
per annum for each of the first five years.
9.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
No toxicological information has been provided for the notified polymer and therefore the
substance cannot be assessed against the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous
Substances. Since the notified polymer has high NAMW, absorption across biological membranes
would be restricted.
The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for Lamal HSA Slip lists a number of potential health
effects, namely irritating to eyes, mouth, throat, gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system,
nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drying of skin, and anaesthetic and narcotic effects. These relate
mainly to the other components in the product rather than the notified polymer.
Lamal HSA Slip is a Class 3 Dangerous Good (flammable liquid) due to the solvent content.
Occupational Health and Safety
There is little potential for significant health risk to the notified polymer in the transport and
storage of the product containing this polymer.
Potential exposure to the polymer in Lamal HSA Slip will be during the blending and transfer of
adhesives, particularly manual transfer, and when cleaning equipment. Exposure to the notified
polymer via inhalation is expected to be minimal due to its low volatility. Exposure is most likely
to be by skin contact. However, laminating machine operators are instructed to wear safety glasses,
impervious gloves, overalls and safety boots when handling Lamal HSA Slip and the blended
adhesives. In addition, blending vessels are situated in a bunded area with local exhaust
ventilation. Laminating machinery is either fitted with exhaust ventilation ducts above the
adhesive tray, or in a wall or ceiling adjacent to the machinery. The health risk for laminating
machine operators posed by the notified polymer is considered to be low.
The notified polymer becomes unavailable for absorption once it is incorporated in the laminated
material. The health risk for workers in the food packaging industry, and in the distribution and
retailing snack food is considered to be negligible.
The notified polymer has been used commercially in Europe and the USA for a number of years.
No adverse health effects arising from human exposure to the notified polymer have been observed
or reported.
31
Public Health
The notified polymer is not available for sale to the general public and will be used in laminate
adhesive products for use in food and other packaging applications. Although members of the
public may consume food from laminated packages manufactured using the notified polymer, the
risk to public health from the notified polymer is likely to be low because the notified polymer is
sandwiched between two impermeable layers and is unlikely to be bioavailable.
Environmental Effects
Less than 1.4 % of the imported polymer will be wasted. Of this, the small proportion resulting
from spills and the adhesive formulation process will be disposed of to landfill by licensed waste
contractors. In landfill, the notified polymer is expected to associate with the soil matrix and would
not be expected to leach into the aquatic environment. Ultimately, the majority of the notified
polymer contained in the packaging will be disposed of to landfill as household garbage. The
eventual degradation products of the packaging films and the Lamal HSA Slip and adhesive wastes
are likely to associate with the soil particles and not leach by water. If incinerated, the notified
polymer is expected to be converted to water vapour and oxides of carbon and nitrogen. There
should be no release of the notified polymer to sewer.
The polymer is not expected to cross biological membranes, due to its high molecular weight, and
should not bioaccumulate.
The low environmental exposure of the notified polymer as a result of the proposed manufacture
and use indicates the overall environmental hazard should be low.
9.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to Polymer in Lamal HSA Slip the following guidelines and
precautions should be observed:
? Employers should ensure that NOHSC exposure standards for all components of the
blended adhesive are not exceeded in the workplace;
? Safety goggles, chemical resistant industrial clothing and footwear and impermeable gloves
should be used while handling the product containing the notified polymer; where
engineering controls and work practices do not reduce vapour and particulate exposure to
safe levels, an air fed respirator should also be used;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should then be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
32
10. PUBLICATION SUMMARY REPORT
Polymer in Aquabond 444A
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/871
Rohm and Haas Australia Pty Ltd of Floor, 969 Burke Road CAMBERWELL VIC 3124 (ACN
004 513 188) and Coates Australia Pty Ltd of 323 Chisholm Road AUBURN NSW 2144 (ACN
000 079 550) have submitted a limited notification statement in support of their application for an
assessment certificate for Polymer in Aquabond 444A. The notified polymer is a component of a
two pack laminating adhesive for polymer and/or aluminium films used to package dry food. Less
than 10 tonnes of the notified chemical will be imported per annum for the first five years.
10.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
No toxicological information has been provided for the notified polymer and therefore the
substance cannot be assessed against the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous
Substances. Since the notified polymer has high NAMW, absorption across biological membranes
would be restricted.
The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for Aquabond 444A lists a number of potential health
effects, namely irritating to eyes, mouth, throat, gastrointestinal tract and respiratory system,
nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and damage to liver and kidneys. These relate mainly to the other
components in the product rather than the notified polymer.
Occupational Health and Safety
There is little potential for significant health risk to the notified polymer in the transport and
storage of the product containing this polymer.
Potential exposure to the polymer in Aquabond 444A will be during the blending and transfer of
adhesives, and when cleaning equipment. Exposure is most likely to be by skin contact as the
exposure to the notified polymer via inhalation is expected to be low. However, laminating
machine operators are instructed to wear safety glasses, impervious gloves, overalls and safety
boots when handling Aquabond 444A and the blended adhesives. In addition, blending vessels are
situated in a bunded area with local exhaust ventilation. Laminating machinery is either fitted with
exhaust ventilation ducts above the adhesive tray, or in a wall or ceiling adjacent to the machinery.
The health risk for laminating machine operators is considered to be low.
The notified polymer becomes unavailable for absorption once it is incorporated in the laminated
material. The health risk for workers in the dry food packaging industry, and in the distribution
and retailing of dry food is considered to be negligible.
The notified polymer has been used commercially in Europe for a number of years. No adverse
health effects arising from human exposure to the notified polymer have been observed or
reported.
Public Health
The notified polymer is not available for sale to the public and will be used in laminating adhesive
products for use in dry food packaging. Although members of the public may consume food from
laminated packages manufactured using the notified polymer, the risk to public health from the
33
notified polymer would be low because the notified polymer is sandwiched between two
impermeable layers and is unlikely to be bioavailable.
Environmental Effects
Less than 2.7% of the imported polymer will be wasted. Of this, a small proportion from spills
and the adhesive formulation process will be disposed of to landfill by licensed waste contractors.
In landfill, the notified polymer is expected to associate with the soil matrix and not leach into the
aquatic environment. Ultimately, the majority of the notified polymer contained in dry food
packaging will be disposed of to landfill as household garbage. Upon eventual degradation of the
packaging films, Aquabond 444A and adhesive wastes, degradation products are likely to associate
with the soil particles and not be leached by water.
If incinerated, the notified polymer is anticipated to be converted to water vapour and oxides of
carbon and nitrogen. There should be no release of the notified polymer to sewer.
The polymer is not expected to cross biological membranes, due to its molecular weight and
expected low water solubility, and should not bioaccumulate.
The low environmental exposure of the notified polymer as a result of the proposed manufacture
and use indicates the overall environmental hazard should be low.
10.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to Polymer in Aquabond 444A the following guidelines and
precautions should be observed:
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
For product and formulations containing ethyl acetate, employers should ensure that NOHSC
exposure standard is not exceeded in the workplace.
34
11. PUBLICATION OF SUMMARY REPORT
Polymer in Adcote E700A
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/872
Rohm and Haas Australia Pty Ltd of 969 Burke Road CAMBERWELL VIC 3124 (ACN 004 513
188) and Coates Brothers Australia Pty Ltd of 323 Chisholm Road AUBURN NSW 2144 (ACN
000 079 550) have submitted a joint limited notification statement in support of their application
for an assessment certificate for Polymer in Adcote E700A. The notified polymer is one
component of two pack laminating adhesive for polymer and/or aluminium films used to package
dry food (eg potato crisps). The estimated quantity of the notified polymer introduced in Adcote
E700A is approximately 100 tonnes in the first year increasing to 200 tonnes per annum after 5
years. Adcote E700A polymer emulsion will be imported in 200L steel drums.
11.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
No toxicological data were provided for the notified polymer. Due to its high NAMW,
adsorption across biological membranes would be restricted. The notifier has determined that
the notified polymer is a hazardous substance, based on residual concentration of MDI and
given risk phrases: Irritating to eyes, respiratory system and skin R36/37/38; May cause
sensitisation by inhalation R42.
Due to the presence of residual MDI at 1-5%, the imported product Adcote E700A, is
classified as a hazardous substance in accordance with the NOHSC Approved Criteria for
Classifying Hazardous Substances with the following risk phrases assigned: Irritating to eyes,
respiratory system and skin R36/37/38; May cause sensitisation by inhalation R42.
Due to the presence of ethyl acetate, the product is a Class 3 Dangerous Good with Packing
Group II assigned (Highly flammable). Both ethyl acetate and MDI have national exposure
standards.
Occupational Health and Safety
Dermal exposure to the polymer in Adcote E700A may occur during the blending and
transfer of Adcote E700A and the blended adhesive, and when cleaning the laminating
equipment. Exposure to residual MDI may also occur during these operations. Exposure to
the notified polymer and MDI via inhalation is expected to be low due to their low volatility
and concentration. Blending vessels are situated in a bunded area with local exhaust
ventilation. Laminating machinery is either fitted with exhaust ventilation ducts above the
adhesive tray, or in a wall or ceiling adjacent to the machinery.
Due to the health effects of MDI the health risk to laminating operators is of concern, as
exposure and therefore irritation of the skin and eyes, and sensitisation may occur during
transfer and cleaning operations. Laminating machine operators must wear safety glasses,
impervious gloves, overalls and safety boots when handling Adcote E700A and the blended
adhesives and respiratory protection must be worn if there is a risk of exposure to MDI. MDI
has a NOHSC exposure standard of 0.02 mg/m3 TWA (as isocyanate, equivalent to 0.12
mg/m3 MDI) and 0.07 mg/m3 STEL, with a `sensitiser' notation. However, it is noted that the
ACGIH TLV for MDI is 0.051 mg/m3 TWA. Precautions to prevent exposure to isocyantes
must be taken by all personnel, especially those who have had prior contact or suffer from
35
any form of compromised respiratory function. Isocyanates are on Schedule 3 in NOHSC
Model Regulation for the Control of Workplace Hazardous Substances ?substances for
which health surveillance is required.
The notified polymer becomes unavailable for absorption once it is incorporated in the
laminated material. The health risk for workers in the food packaging industry, and in the
distribution and retailing snack food is considered to be negligible.
There is little potential for significant health risk to the notified polymer in the transport and
storage of the product containing this polymer, unless repeated accidental exposure occurs.
Public Health
The notified polymer is not available for sale to the general public and will be used in
laminate adhesive products for use in dry food and packaging. Although members of the
public may consume food from laminated packages manufactured using the notified polymer,
the risk to public health from the notified polymer is likely to be low because it is sandwiched
between two impermeable layers and is unlikely to be bioavailable.
Environmental Effects
The notified polymer will be used as a laminating adhesive in the production of dry food
packaging. A small proportion of the notified polymer will be disposed of as waste to landfill
by licensed waste contractors where it is expected to be immobile and not leach into the
aquatic compartment. The majority of the waste polymer will be incinerated by licensed
hazardous waste contractors and would be expected to produce water vapour and oxides of
carbon and nitrogen.
The majority of the notified polymer will follow the fate of food packaging, which will be
mostly disposed of to landfill as domestic waste. Upon eventual degradation of the
packaging films the polymer is expected to become part of the soil matrix and not leach.
There should be no release of the notified polymer to sewer. The polymer is not expected to
cross biological membranes, due to its high molecular weight and anticipated low water
solubility, and should not bioaccumulate.
The low environmental exposure of the notified polymer as a result of the proposed
manufacture and use indicates the overall environmental hazard should be low.
11.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
Due to the presence of the residual monomer, MDI, which is a Schedule 3 sensitiser, health
surveillance, must be conducted for workers potentially exposed to Adcote E700A or mixtures
containing the adhesive.
To minimise occupational exposure to Polymer in Adcote E700A the following guidelines and
precautions should be observed:
? Local exhaust ventilation in all areas where Adcote E700A and mixtures containing Adcote
E700A are handled;
? Personal and area atmospheric monitoring should be conducted for workers potentially
exposed to MDI in excess of the NOHSC exposure standard of 0.12 mg/m3 TWA.
Employers should ensure that other relevant NOHSC exposure standards are not exceeded
in the workplace;
36
? Workers must wear overalls, face/eye protection and rubber or neoprene gloves when
handling Adcote E700A or mixtures containing the adhesive. Respiratory protection must
be worn if exposure to MDI is possible;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
Guidance in selection of goggles may be obtained from Australian Standard (AS) 1336 and
Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1337; for industrial clothing, guidance may be found
in AS 3765.2; for impermeable gloves or mittens, in AS 2161.2; for occupational footwear, in
AS/NZS 2210; for respirators, in AS/NZS 1715 and AS/NZS 1716 or other internationally
acceptable standards.
37
12. PUBLICATION OF SUMMARY REPORT
Polymer in Morfree 403A
Summary Report
Reference No: NA/876
Rohm and Haas Australia Pty Ltd of Floor, 969 Burke Road CAMBERWELL VIC 3124 (ACN
004 513 188) and Coates Australia Pty Ltd of 323 Chisholm Road AUBURN NSW 2144 (ACN
000 079 550) have submitted a limited notification statement in support of their application for an
assessment certificate for Polymer in Morfree 403A. The notified polymer is intended to be used
as one component of a two pack laminating adhesive for polymer and/or aluminium films used to
package dry food. Less than 5 tonnes of the notified chemical will be imported per annum for the
first five years.
12.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
No toxicological information has been provided for the notified polymer. The notifier indicated
that the notified polymer is hazardous due to the presence of MDI according to the NOHSC
Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances.
The product Morfree 403A is a hazardous substance with risk phrases of R20 (Harmful by
inhalation), R42 (May cause sensitisation by inhalation) and R36/37/38 (Irritating to eyes,
respiratory system and skin) because of the presence of MDI. The Material Safety Data Sheet
(MSDS) for Morfree 403A lists a number of potential health effects, namely irritating to eyes,
mouth, throat, gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, skin and respiratory sensitisation, diarrhea,
nausea, vomiting, and damage to lung and respiratory system, eyes, skin and immune system.
These relate mainly to MDI rather than the notified polymer. MDI also has a NOHSC Exposure
Standard.
Occupational Health and Safety
There is little potential for significant health risk to the notified polymer in the transport and
storage of the product containing this polymer.
Potential exposure to the polymer in Morfree 403A will be during the blending and transfer of
adhesives, and when cleaning equipment. Exposure to the notified polymer via inhalation is
expected to be minimal due to its low volatility. Exposure is most likely to be by skin contact.
However, laminating machine operators are instructed to wear safety glasses, impervious gloves
(butyl rubber or nitrile are recommended in the MSDS), coveralls and safety boots when handling
Morfree 403A and blended adhesives. Respirator will be worn when required. In addition,
blending vessels are situated in a bunded area with local exhaust ventilation. Laminating
machinery is either fitted with exhaust ventilation ducts above the adhesive tray, or in a wall or
ceiling adjacent to the machinery. The adverse health risk due to the notified polymer to these
workers is considered to be low.
MDI in the imported polymer solution may cause systemic toxicity via inhalation, irritation to
skin, eyes and respiratory system and respiratory sensitisation. It is the employer's responsibility
to maintain atmospheric levels of MDI below the NOHSC exposure standard of 0.02 mg/m3
(TWA, equivalent to 0.12 mg/m3 MDI) and 0.07 mg/m3 (STEL, as -NCO). However, it is noted
that the ACGIH TLV for MDI is 0.051 mg/m3 (TWA). The risk of occupational asthma from
repetitive exposure to isocyanates is well known. Therefore, respiratory protection during
decanting and machine clean-up is indicated. The use of self-contained breathing apparatus should
be considered to prevent worker exposure. Precautions to prevent exposure must be taken by all
38
personnel, but especially those who either have had prior contact with isocyanates or suffer from
any form of compromised respiratory function. Health surveillance is recommended for
isocyanates under State and Territory hazardous substances legislation.
The notified polymer becomes unavailable for absorption once it is incorporated in the laminated
material. The health risk for workers in the food packaging industry, and in the distribution and
retailing snack food is considered to be negligible.
The notified polymer has been used commercially in Europe and USA for a number of years. No
adverse health effects resulting from human exposure to the notified polymer have been observed
or reported.
Public Health
It is expected that public exposure to the notified polymer in its liquid state will be limited, except
in the rare event of an accidental spill. The notified polymer used in an adhesive in food
packaging will be encapsulated within an inert, very high molecular weight film matrix, rendering
the notified polymer biologically unavailable. Public contact with the notified polymer in dried
food packaging is further limited as the adhesive containing the notified polymer is sandwiched
between two layers of polymer and/or aluminium film, restricting any dermal contact.
Consequently the public hazard from exposure to the notified polymer through all phases of its
life-cycle is considered to be low.
Environmental Effects
A small proportion of the notified polymer, either spilt or wasted during the formulation process,
will be disposed to landfill by licensed hazardous waste contractors. If any leakage were to occur,
the notified polymer is expected to associate with the soil matrix and not to leach into the aquatic
environment.
Less than 1.5% of the imported polymer will be wasted. Of this, a small proportion from spills
and the adhesive formulation process will be incinerated with solid material being disposed of to
landfill by licensed waste contractors. If incinerated, the notified polymer is anticipated to be
converted to water vapour and oxides of carbon and nitrogen. There should be no release of the
notified polymer to sewer. Ultimately, the majority of the notified polymer contained in dry food
packaging will be disposed of to landfill as household garbage. Upon eventual degradation of the
packaging films, Morfree 403A and adhesive wastes, degradation products are likely to associate
with soil particles and not be leached by water.
The notified polymer is not expected to cross biological membranes, due to its molecular weight
and expected low water solubility, and should not bioaccumulate
The low environmental exposure of the notified polymer as a result of the proposed manufacture
and use indicates the overall environmental hazard should be low.
12.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to "Polymer in Morfree 403A" the following guidelines and
precautions should be observed:
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
39
control procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
For products and formulations containing free MDI the following guidelines and precautions
should be observed:
? Employers should ensure that NOHSC exposure standards are not exceeded in the
workplace;
? Health surveillance should be conducted in the workplace in accordance with the NOHSC
National Model Regulations for Control of Workplace Hazardous Substances;
? Safety goggles, chemical resistant industrial clothing and footwear and impermeable gloves
should be used during occupational use of products containing the notified polymer; where
engineering controls and work practices do not reduce vapour and particulate exposure to
safe levels, an air fed respirator should also be used;
? Guidance in selection of goggles may be obtained from Australian Standard (AS) 1336 and
Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1337; for industrial clothing guidance may be
found in AS 3765.2; for impermeable gloves or mittens in AS/NZS 2161.2; for
occupational footwear in AS/NZS 2210; for respirators in AS/NZS 1715 and AS/NZS 1716
or other internationally acceptable standards.
40
13. PUBLICATION OF SUMMARY REPORT
Synkyd 50
Summary Report
Reference No: PLC/186
Swift and Company Limited of 64 Trenerry Crescent Abbotsford VIC 3067 (ACN: 000 005 578)
has submitted a synthetic polymer of low concern (PLC) notification statement in support of their
application for an assessment certificate for Synkyd 50. The notified polymer is intended to be
used as a component of ink products that are used in the printing industry. A maximum of 100 000
kg of the notified polymer per year will be imported for 5 years.
13.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
No toxicological data have been provided for the notified polymer and therefore the substance
cannot be classified in accordance with the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous
Substances. However, the systemic toxicity of the notified polymer is likely to be low, given its
high molecular weight and consequent low bioavailability.
The other ingredients present in the final ink products are not hazardous.
Occupational Health and Safety
Occupational exposure to the notified polymer 25 kg bags would only be envisaged following
accidental puncture of the bags. The health risk is assessed as low, given the high molecular
weight and anticipated low toxicity.
Airborne particles of dust or aerosols may be generated during transfer or reformulation. However,
given that the transfer, reformulation and packaging of Synkyd 50 are conducted in the presence of
a local extraction system, the potential for inhalation exposure is low. Exposure to drips and spills
of the 25% polymer solution will be controlled by personal protective equipment. Given these
engineering and personal controls and the expected low toxicity of the notified polymer, the health
risk to workers during reformulation is assessed as low.
Quality control technicians may receive dermal contact from drips and spills of the 25% polymer
solution. Exposure will be controlled by personal protective equipment. Given these controls and
the expected low toxicity of the notified polymer, the health risk to quality control technicians is
assessed as low.
Application operators may be exposed to aerosols of the 25% notified polymer solution generated
during the printing process and to drips and spills when connecting transfer lines. Given that the
transfer and the lithographic offset printing process are fully automated and conducted in the
presence of ventilation and extraction systems, the potential for inhalation exposure is low. Dermal
exposure will be controlled by personal protective equipment such as coveralls, gloves, eye
protection and safety boots. Under these circumstances, given the expected low toxicity of the
notified polymer and the equipment used to control exposure, the health risk to application
operators is considered to be low. As the product has been designed for high durability it is likely
that once dried onto the newsprint, the polymer will be essentially unavailable for absorption. The
health risk to application workers from the notified polymer on newsprint would be negligible.
Based on the information provided, Synkyd 50 is unlikely to pose a health risk to workers.
41
Public Health
The final ink products will not be sold to the general public but will be used as newsprint for
newspapers and magazines available to the public. Once applied to the paper and dried, the ink is
likely to be durable and not easily removed. This will render the notified polymer biologically
unavailable, consequently the potential for public exposure to the notified polymer is expected to
be low.
Environmental Effects
The notifier estimates that up to 2.2 tonnes per annum of waste polymer may be generated during
transport and storage of the imported polymer, reformulation of the polymer into ink products and
application of ink to various paper products. Discarded printed paper products will be disposed of
directly to land-fill or recycled. Recycling will involve disposal of recycling sludge containing the
polymer to land-fill or by incineration.
It is expected that all of the polymer will be released to land-fill or incinerated. If released to land-
fill, the polymer is unlikely to be mobile in the soil environment and is expected to slowly degrade
to carbon dioxide gas through abiotic and biotic processes. The environmental hazard of the
notified polymer in land-fill is expected to be low. Incinerated polymer would be rapidly
destroyed and converted to water vapour and oxides of carbon.
Minimal release to water is expected during normal use of the polymer. In the event of accidental
release of the polymer into waterways, it is expected to settle to the bottom and bind to sediments
where it would slowly degrade. The long term environmental hazard of the notified polymer in the
aquatic environment is expected to be low.
The polymer's large molecular weight and predicted low water solubility should prevent
bioaccumulation. Given the above, the overall environmental hazard is expected to be low.
13.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to Synkyd 50, the following guidelines and precautions should
be observed:
? Protective eyewear, chemical resistant industrial clothing and footwear and impermeable
gloves should be used during occupational use of the products containing the notified
polymer; where engineering controls and work practices do not reduce vapour and
particulate exposure to safe levels, an air fed respirator should also be used;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should then be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
42
14. PUBLICATION OF SUMMARY REPORT
Polymer in Glasurit Multi-Effekt 11-Line
Summary Report
Reference No: PLC/188
BASF Wattyl Coatings Pty Ltd of 231-233 Newton Road, Wetherill Park, NSW 2164 (ABN 93
080 438 464) has submitted a synthetic polymer of low concern (PLC) notification statement in
support of their application for an assessment certificate for Polymer in Glasurit Multi-Effekt 11-
Line. The notified polymer is intended to be used as a component of an automotive refinishing
paint. The notified chemical will be imported at a rate of 2.5 tonnes per annum for each of the first
five years.
14.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
No toxicological information has been provided for the notified polymer and so the polymer
cannot be assessed against the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances.
However, the notified polymer meets the criteria for a Polymer of Low Concern and thus is
unlikely to represent a health hazard.
The paint tinter containing the notified polymer is classified as a Class 3 dangerous good because
of the presence of flammable solvents. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for the paint tinter
lists a number of health effects, namely mucous membrane and respiratory system irritation,
headaches, dizziness, fatigue, muscular weakness, drowsiness and, in extreme cases, loss of
consciousness. These effects are related to the presence of solvents rather than the notified
polymer.
Occupational Health and Safety
The paint tinter containing the notified polymer will be imported in bottles which will remain
unopened prior to end use. Thus, there is little potential for significant occupational exposure to
the notified polymer during import and storage of the paint product containing the polymer.
Therefore, the health risk to workers involved in transport and storage is low.
The paint tinter will be sold to numerous automotive repair customers. Spray painters will mix the
tinter with thinning solvents before applying the paint to automotive components. Although the
notified polymer is unlikely to be classifiable as a hazardous substance, the paint contains a
number of hazardous solvents which may be encountered during paint preparation and cleanup.
Also, the spraypainting procedure produces a dense aerosol of particles which, if inhaled, may
impact on human health even in the absence of hazardous solvents and other components.
During paint preparation, worker exposure to the notified polymer and, more importantly, the paint
solvents should be limited through a combination of engineering controls and personal protective
equipment. Paint mixing stations should be well ventilated and personal protective equipment
consisting of protective coveralls gloves and eye protection should be worn. If ventilation is
insufficient to maintain atmospheric levels of solvents below national exposure limits, an organic
respirator should also be worn.
Exposure to the notified polymer and, in particular, paint solvents must be controlled during spray
applications. Engineering controls consisting of ventilated spray booths and personal protective
equipment consisting of supplied air respirator, faceshield, gloves and protective coveralls will be
employed. These controls are to conform to the relevant Australian Standards or their recognised
equivalent. Thus, it is important that the paint is applied and overspray controlled in a manner
43
conforming to appropriate occupational health and safety regulations such as the NOHSC Spray
Painting National Guidance Material. Finally, similar engineering controls and personal
protective equipment should be employed during the cleaning of spray equipment when solvents
alone are likely to be sprayed to remove residual paint. Employers must ensure that the exposure
standards for the solvents are adhered to also during spray application and cleanup.
Finally, the paint tinters containing the notified polymer are flammable due to their solvent
content. Precautions must be taken to avoid sources of ignition. The use of earthing leads and
antistatic overalls and footwear is recommended.
Given these engineering controls and personal protective equipment and accounting for the likely
low toxicity of the notified polymer, the health risk for these workers involved in spray painting is
considered low.
Following curing of the paint, the polymer will be cross-linked with other paint components to
form a high molecular weight stable film. In this form, the polymer is unavailable for absorption
and the health risk to workers from the notified polymer after paint curing would be negligible.
Overall, Polymer in Glasurit Multi-Effekt 11-Line is of low concern to human health and safety
and no specific risk reduction measures are necessary.
Public Health
The imported paint product containing 30-60% notified polymer will not be sold to the general
public. The public will frequently come into contact with the notified polymer after it is
incorporated into an inert film on car bodies from which absorption would be unlikely. Therefore,
the risk to public health induced by the notified polymer is considered to be low.
Environmental Effects
The new polymer will be used as a component of a refinish paint product for use in automotive
crash repairs.
The majority of the polymer would be encapsulated in an inert film after application. However, up
to 1.4 tonnes per annum of the polymer could be released as a consequence of paint preparation
and application. This is expected to occur primarily in automotive repair facilities. The procedures
in place at the repair facilities ensure that any released material is properly contained and disposed
of, most likely to landfill.
The polymer is unlikely to present a hazard to the environment when it is incorporated into the
paint and applied to solid substrates. Once applied to the metal panels of vehicles the notified
polymer will be incorporated in an inert film and would not present a significant hazard. Any
fragments, chips or flakes of the paint will be of little concern as they are expected to be inert. The
metal panels coated with the polymer are likely to be either recycled for steel reclamation or be
placed into landfill at the end of their useful life. During steel reclamation the polymer would be
destroyed in the blast furnaces and converted to water vapour and oxides of carbon and nitrogen.
When deposited into landfill with waste paint, used paint cans or on discarded panels, the organic
components of the paint including the new polymer would be inert and immobile, but could be
expected to be very slowly degraded through biological and abiotic processes.
The physical characteristics of low water solubility and low volatility suggest that the mobility and
degradation of the polymer in the environment will be very limited.
The low environmental exposure of the polymer as a result of the proposed use indicates the
overall environmental hazard should be low.
44
14.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to Polymer in Glasurit Multi-Effekt 11-Line, the following
guidelines and precautions should be observed:
? Spray application of the paint containing the notified polymer should be conducted in
accordance with the NOHSC Spray Painting National Guidance Material;
? Protective eyewear, chemical resistant industrial clothing and footwear and impermeable
gloves should be used during occupational use of the products containing the notified
polymer. Where engineering controls and work practices do not reduce vapour and
particulate exposure to safe levels, an organic filter respirator or air fed respirator should
also be used;
? Spillage of the notified polymer should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should then be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
Guidance in selection of protective eyewear may be obtained from Australian Standard (AS) 1336
and Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1337; for industrial clothing, guidance may be
found in AS 3765.2; for impermeable gloves or mittens, in AS 2161.2; for occupational footwear,
in AS/NZS 2210; for respirators, in AS/NZS 1715 and AS/NZS 1716; or other internationally
acceptable standards.
45
15. PUBLICATION OF SUMMARY REPORT
Optiflo H370, H400, H500, H600
Summary Report
Reference No: PLC/190
Amtrade International Pty Ltd of Level 2, 570 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne VIC 3004 (ACN 006 409
936) has submitted a synthetic polymer of low concern (PLC) notification statement in support of
their application for an assessment certificate for Optiflo H370, H400, H500, H600. The notified
polymer is intended to be used as a thickener in water based latex architectural paint formulations,
for trade and public sale. Approximately 20 tonnes of notified polymer will be imported in the first
year, increasing to approximately 200 tonnes per annum after five years.
15.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
No toxicological information has been provided for the notified polymer and therefore the
substance cannot be assessed against the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous
Substances. Due to the high molecular weight and low reactivity of the polymer, the toxicological
hazard of the notified polymer is expected to be low. The polymer is not expected to be hazardous
by dermal exposure as the high molecular weight will preclude absorption through the skin.
The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) indicates that the product Optiflo Associative Thickeners
(With Cosolvent) is not classified as a hazardous substance but indicates that eye, skin and
respiratory irritation may occur on exposure to this product, due to the alkaline nature of the
product (pH typically 9.5). The glycol ether cosolvent is stated to potentially cause delayed liver
and kidney damage and blood changes if swallowed or on repeated exposure. The residual
monomer concentrations in the finished polymer are below the cutoff levels for classification as a
hazardous substance.
Occupational Health and Safety
There is little potential for significant occupational exposure to the notified polymer in the
transport and storage of the polymer solution or the paint component containing this polymer.
There will be exposure during production of paints, and in the use and disposal of the paints.
During the paint manufacture processes, the main exposure route for the notified polymer will be
dermal. The paints will be viscous, and ready formation of aerosols is not expected. The polymer
is not expected to be hazardous by dermal exposure as the high molecular weight will preclude
absorption through the skin, however irritation may occur on dermal exposure to the product
Optiflo Associative Thickeners (With Cosolvent) due to the alkaline nature of the product. The
notified polymer is also not expected to be hazardous by ocular exposure, but precautions should
be taken to prevent ocular exposure to the product Optiflo Associative Thickeners (With
Cosolvent) due to the alkaline nature of the product. Exposure to the product Optiflo Associative
Thickeners (With Cosolvent) should also be avoided due to the potential health hazards associated
with the glycol ether cosolvent. The engineering controls and personal protective equipment
specified in the notification (impervious gloves, safety goggles and coveralls) will provide a high
level of protection against the notified polymer. The MSDS indicates that the gloves should be
composed of butyl rubber, nitrile rubber or neoprene. No significant OHS risks are expected when
control and protective measures are implemented.
Occupational exposure during the sale and professional use of architectural paints is likely to be
widespread and often under poorly controlled conditions. Dermal contact during handling and
46
application of the paints is likely. The occupational health and safety risk associated with dermal
contact with the notified polymer in the form of uncured paints will be low, due to the low
toxicological hazard of the polymer and the low concentration (< 1 %) of the notified polymer and
the cosolvent in the finished paints.
Optiflo H370, H400, H500, H600 is of low concern to occupational health and safety and no
specific risk reduction measures are necessary.
Public health
While dermal and possibly eye contact with the notified polymer may occur during application of
the paints containing the polymer by the public, based on its expected low toxicity and low
concentration in final paint products, the notified polymer is not expected to pose a significant
hazard to public health when used in the proposed manner.
In dried paint films, the notified polymer will be encapsulated in an inert, very high molecular
weight matrix, which will render it biologically unavailable, and consequently public exposure to
the notified polymer from dried paint films and consequent risk is considered to be low.
Environmental Effects
There is scope for accidental spillage during paint manufacture. Waste paints will be processed to
reclaim solvents, converted to an inert solid and disposed of to landfill along with spills and
storage drums, by licensed waste contractors.
Disposal by the public will result in the notified polymer being released to the sewer through
cleaning of painting equipment. As the notified polymer is water soluble it is expected to persist in
solution at concentrations far below its saturation point. Predicted Environmental Concentration
(PEC) calculations suggest that the concentrations will be well below those likely to be toxic to
aquatic organisms. Waste polymer sent to landfill as inert solid is expected to remain associated
with the soils and sediments.
The polymer is not expected to cross biological membranes, due to the high molecular weight, and
should not bioaccumulate. The low environmental exposure of the polymer as a result of the
proposed use indicates the overall environmental hazard should be low.
15.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to Optiflo H370, H400, H500, H600, the following guidelines
and precautions should be observed:
? Protective eyewear, chemical resistant industrial clothing and footwear and impermeable
gloves (composed of butyl rubber, nitrile rubber or neoprene) should be used during
occupational use of the products containing the notified polymer; where engineering
controls and work practices do not reduce vapour and particulate exposure to safe levels, an
air fed respirator should also be used;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should then be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
47
16. PUBLICATION OF SUMMARY REPORT
Polymer in Adcote 507
Summary Report
Reference No: PLC/203
Rohm and Haas Australia Pty Ltd (ACN No. 004 513 188) of 4th Floor 969 Burke Road,
CAMBERWELL VICTORIA 3124 and Coates Brothers Australia Pty Ltd (ACN No. 000 079
550) of 323 Chisholm Road AUBURN NSW 2144 have submitted a synthetic polymer of low
concern (PLC) notification statement in support of their application for an assessment certificate
for Polymer in Adcote 507. The notified polymer is intended to be used as a component of a "two
pack" laminating adhesive for pet food packaging and other general packaging. Approximately 20
tonnes of notified polymer will be manufactured per annum during the first year of importation,
increasing to 40 tonnes per annum in the next four years.
16.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Hazard Assessment
The notified polymer will not be introduced in isolation, but as a component in solution of Adcote
507 containing methyl ethyl ketone up to 56%.
No toxicological information has been provided for the notified polymer and therefore the
substance cannot be assessed against the NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous
Substance. The polymer solution (Adcote 507) is a hazardous substance (irritating to eyes and
respiratory system) because of methyl ethyl ketone concentration. The Material Safety Data Sheet
(MSDS) for the polymer solution lists a number of potential health effects, namely mouth, throat
and stomach irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, faintness, headache, incoordination
and skin, eye and respiratory irritation. These relate mainly to the solvent, rather than the notified
polymer.
Occupational Health and Safety
There is little potential for significant occupational exposure to the notified polymer in the
transport and storage of the polymer solution other than in the event of an accidental spill.
During the reformulation processes (blending and transfer of adhesive) and cleaning equipment,
the main exposure route for the notified polymer will be dermal. The high molecular weight of the
polymer will preclude its absorption through the skin. Standard protective measures including
local exhaust ventilation, coveralls, protective eyewear and impervious gloves used during
reformulation and end use should provide sufficient protection against the notified polymer.
The final adhesive mix, containing the notified polymer, could contain a wide variety of additional
ingredients, which may cause adverse health effects. Exhaust ventilation, personal protective
equipment, such as safety glasses, impervious gloves, coveralls and safety boots should provide
adequate protection to workers handling the adhesive mix.
The notified polymer per se presents a low hazard to human health, and the control measures
required to prevent exposure to the hazardous components of the polymer solution will ensure
sufficient protection against the notified polymer itself.
Public Health
The polymer in Adcote 507 will not be sold to the public. After completion of the packaging
manufacture, the notified polymer in the adhesive material is "sandwiched" between two
48
aluminium or polymer films. Hence the potential for public exposure to the notified polymer as
laminating adhesives for a variety of food and other packaging materials is considered low.
Based on the use pattern of the notified polymer and its physico-chemical properties, it is
considered not to pose a significant hazard to public health.
Environmental Effects
A small proportion of the notified polymer, either spilt or wasted during the formulation process,
will be incinerated by licensed hazardous waste contractors. Upon incineration, the polymer will
be rapidly destroyed and converted to water vapour and oxides of carbon.
The majority of the notified polymer will be contained in the packaging and will ultimately be
disposed of to landfill as household garbage. Upon eventual degradation of the packaging films
the notifier expects that the resulting end polymer will become part of the soil matrix and not to
leach, because of its high molecular weight and hydrophobicity.
Incinerated notified polymer is anticipated to be converted to water vapour and oxides of carbon.
There should be no release of the notified polymer to sewer.
The polymer is not expected to cross biological membranes, due to its high molecular weight and
predicted low water solubility, and should not bioaccumulate. The low environmental exposure of
the notified polymer as a result of the proposed manufacture and use indicates the overall
environmental hazard should be low.
16.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to Polymer in Adcote 507, the following guidelines and
precautions should be observed:
? Safety glasses, impervious gloves, coveralls and safety footwear should be used during
occupational use of the products containing the notified polymer; where engineering
controls and work practices do not reduce vapour and particulate exposure to safe levels, an
air fed respirator should be used;
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided. Spillages should be cleaned up
promptly with absorbents which should then be put into containers for disposal;
? A copy of the MSDS should be easily accessible to employees.
If products containing the notified chemical are hazardous to health in accordance with the
NOHSC Approved Criteria for Classifying Hazardous Substances, workplace practices and
control procedures consistent with State and Territory hazardous substances regulations must be in
operation.
Guidance in selection of protective eyewear may be obtained from Australian Standard (AS) 1336
and Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) 1337; for industrial clothing, guidance may be
found in AS 3765.2; for impermeable gloves or mittens, in AS 2161.2; for occupational footwear,
in AS/NZS 2210.
49
17. PUBLICATION OF SUMMARY REPORT
MLT-8723
Summary Report
Reference No: EX/20(NA/600)
Hitachi Koki Imaging Solutions Inc of 2/28 Rodborough Road FRENCHS FOREST NSW 2086
has submitted a notification statement in support of their application for an extension of the
Assessment Certificate for MLT-8723. The notified chemical is intended to be used as a
component of colour toner products ready for use in electrostatic photocopying systems. It will be
imported at a rate less than 10 tonnes per annum for the first five years.
The original assessment certificate is held by Minolta Business Equipment Australia Pty Ltd of
Unit 9, 372 Eastern Valley Way CHATSWOOD NSW 2067 and Mita Copiers Australia Pty Ltd
on Unit 2, Block V, 391 Park Road REGENTS PARK NSW 2143 (formerly of 25 Sirius Road
LANE COVE NSW 2066). Minolta Business Equipment Australia Pty Ltd and Mita Copiers
Australia Pty Ltd have both agreed to this extension.
There has been no variation in matters affecting occupational, environmental or public exposure as
set out in the notification statement that accompanied the application for extension of the original
certificate. There has been no new information available to the notifier regarding the health and
environmental effects of the notified chemical. The original summary report is republished below
for public record.
17.1 ASSESSMENT OF PUBLIC, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
Toxicological studies suggest that the notified polymer would not be acutely toxic via the oral or
inhalation routes, would not be irritating to skin or eyes, would not be a skin sensitiser and would
not be genotoxic. As the toners containing the notified chemical at greater than 90% were used in
these studies, the other components of the toners also are unlikely to present a hazard in terms of
these endpoints. The notified polymer would not be classified as hazardous according to the
Approved Criteria in terms of the toxicological data provided.
Exposure to toner containing the notified polymer during transport and handling of containers
should not result in exposure except in the event of an accident.
Exposure of office workers will potentially occur when toner is recharged. Spillage is possible
when the bottle in which the toner is imported is screwed into a hopper after it is removed from the
photocopier. It is possible that some dermal and inhalation exposure may occur. As photocopiers
are expected to be installed in well-ventilated areas dust buildup in the atmosphere from machine
operation or toner spillage should be low.
Dermal exposure of workers to toner residues is possible during routine maintenance but is
expected to be low unless spillage occurs.
It is concluded that the risk of adverse health effects to workers involved in transport, storage, use
or disposal of the notified polymer is minimal. Similarly, the risk of public health effects is also
considered to be minimal.
The vast majority of the notified polymer will be fused with the toner to paper during the copying
process. Waste paper disposal is effected through high temperature incineration, recycling or
deposition to landfill. In all three cases the polymer should be destroyed either through the agency
of a vigorous chemical environment, or through slow biological or abiotic processes. Leaching of
any uncured polymer powder in landfill, either from accidental spillage or residues in empty toner
bottles is not expected given the very low water solubility. The polymer's large molecular size
and very low water solubility should prevent bioaccumulation. Overall, the environmental hazard
due to the use of the notified polymer should be low.
50
17.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
To minimise occupational exposure to the notified polymer the following guidelines and
precautions should be observed:
? Spillage of the notified chemical should be avoided; spillage should be cleaned up
promptly using a vacuum cleaner and disposed of;
The NOHSC exposure standard for nuisance dusts of 10 mg.m-3 should be adhered to;
?br>
? Good personal hygiene should be practised to minimise the potential for secondary
ingestion;
? A copy of the relevant Material Safety Data Sheet should be easily accessible to
employees.
51
18. ACCESS TO FULL PUBLIC REPORT
The Full Public Report associated with each new chemical Summary Report in this publication is
available for public inspection at the library of the National Occupational Health & Safety
Commission, 92 Parramatta Road, CAMPERDOWN NSW 2050. Library hours at the date of
publication are:
Monday - Wednesday 8.30 am - 5.00 pm
Thursday 8.30 am - 8.00 pm
Friday 8.30 am - 5.00 pm
Library hours may be extended or changed and it is suggested that those intending to visit, check
hours by calling (02) 9577 9253.
Copies of the Full Public Reports may also be requested, free of charge, by contacting the
Administration Section by phone: (02) 9577 9579 or fax: (02) 9577 9465.
52
19. COMMERCIAL EVALUATION CATEGORY PERMIT
The permits listed in Table 1 were issued to import or manufacture the following chemicals for
commercial evaluation under section 21G of the Industrial Chemicals (Notification and
Assessment) Act 1989:
Table 1
Commercial Evaluation Category Permits
PERMIT COMPANY CHEMICAL QUANTITY USE PERIOD
NUMBER NAME OR TRADE APPROVED
NAME
462 Ausmelt Ltd 2000 kg Flotation 13/02/2001 to
AM2
reagent 13/08/2001
VSP Industries
Pty Ltd
Symex Holdings
Ltd
Clariant
(Australia) Pty
Ltd
53
20. LOW VOLUME CATEGORY PERMITS
The permits listed in Table 2 were issued to import or manufacture the following chemicals under
section 21U of the Industrial Chemicals (Notification and Assessment) Act 1989:
Table 2
Low Volume Category Permits
PERMIT COMPANY CHEMICAL USE DATE PERIOD
NUMBER NAME OR TRADE APPROVED
NAME
364 Lexmark Lexmark Pigment 19 January 36 months
International Acrylic dispersant 2001
(Australia) Terpolymer for ink jet
Pty Limited printers
365 Firmenich Muscenone Component 05 February 36 months
Limited of fragrance 2001
mixtures
54
21. EARLY INTRODUCTION PERMITS FOR NON-HAZARDOUS INDUSTRIAL
CHEMICALS
The permits listed in Table 3 were issued to import or manufacture the following chemicals prior
to the issue of their respective assessment certificates under section 30A of the Act.
Table 3
Early Introduction Permits
PERMIT COMPANY CHEMICAL OR USE
NUMBER NAME TRADE NAME
140 Rohm & Polymer in Morez 400 Binder for printing inks
Haas
Australia Pty
Ltd
141 Rohm & Polymer in Lucidene Binder for printing inks
Haas 4015
Australia Pty
Ltd
142 ISP Polymer in Aculyn 46 Thickener for hair colourants
(Australasia)
Pty Ltd
143 CSIRO Land Lanthanum Modified Controlling soluble phosphate
and Water Clay concentrations in rivers, lakes
and other water bodies
Integrated
Mineral
Technology
Ltd
144 Rohm & Polymer in Maincote A component in aqueous
Haas HG-86 industrial and architectural
Australia Pty house paints
Ltd
55
22. NOTICE OF CHEMICALS LISTED ON THE AUSTRALIAN INVENTORY OF
CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES FIVE YEARS AFTER ISSUING OF ASSESSMENT
CERTIFICATES
Notice is given in accordance with section 14(1) of the Industrial Chemicals (Notification and
Assessment) Act 1989, that the following chemicals have been added to the Australian Inventory of
Chemical Substances.
Table 4
Chemicals Eligible for Listing on the Australian Inventory of Chemical Substances
CHEMICAL NAME CAS NUMBER MOLECULAR FORMULA
Benzoic acid, 2-(aminocarbonyl)-N,N- 127733-92-0 Unspecified
bis (hydrogenated tallow alkyl)
derivatives
Fatty acids C12-18, methyl esters, 149458-07-1 Unspecified
sulfonated, sodium salts
1H- Tetrazole -1 -acetamide, N, N- 168612-06-4 C11H21N5OS
dibutyl -2,5 dihydro - 5-thioxo-
Phosphorothioic acid, O,O-bis(2- 53378-52-2 C8H19O3PS.Na
methylpropyl) ester, sodium salt
2- propenoic acid, 2- methyl -, butyl 173584-48-0 (C8H14O2. C8H8. C7H12O3.
ester, polymer with ethenylbenzene, 4- C7H12O3. C3H4O2)x
hydroxybutyl 2 -propenoate, 1,2
propanediol mono (2-methyl -2-
propenoate) and 2- propenoic acid
Propanoic acid, 3-hydroxy- 2- 306975-56-4 Unspecified
(hydroxymethyl) ?-methyl-, polymer
with 2-ethyl ?-(hydroxymethyl) ?,3-
propanediol and N, N', 2-tris(6-
isocyanatohexyl) imidodicarbonic
diamide reaction products with N-
ethyl- 1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8,8
heptadecafluoro 璑- (2-hydroxyethyl)
?1-octanesulfonamide and N-ethyl-
1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,7,7,7,
pentadecafluoro 璑- (2-hydroxyethyl)-
1-heptanesulfonamide, compounds
with triethylamine
Sulfonamides, C4-8 璦lkane, 306973-47-7 Unspecified
perfluoro, N-(hydroxyethyl) ?N-
methyl, reaction products with 12-
hydroxystearic acid and 2,4 璗DI,
ammonium salts
Propanoic acid, 3- 32750-89-3 C13H25NO2S2
[[(dibutylamino)thioxomethyl] thio]-,
methyl ester
56
1, 4 benzenedicarboxylic acid, polymer 148497-55-6 (C8H6O4. C6H14O3. C4H10O3.
with 2,5 furandione, 2,2' ? C4H2O3. C3H8O2)x
oxybis[ethanol], oxybis[propanol] and
1,2 propanediol
Butanoic acid, 3-oxo-, 2-[(methyl ?- 154435-88-8 (C10H14O5. C7H12O2. C5H8O2.
oxo-2-propenyl)oxy] ethyl ester, C3H4O2.)x
polymer with butyl 2-propenoate,
methyl 2-methyl- 2-propenoate and 2-
propenoic acid
2-Propenoic acid, polymer with 129898-01-7 (C3H4O2.H3O2P.Na)x.xNa
sodium phosphinate, sodium salt
Neodecanoic acid, oxiranylmethyl 160336-54-9 (C13H24O3. C9H12O3. C8H4O3.
C5H12O4)x
ester, polymer with 2,2
bis(hydroxymethyl) ?1,3 propanediol,
hexahydromethyl- 1,3-
isobenzofurandione and 1,3 ?br>
isobenzofurandione
Fatty acids, dehydrated castor-oil, 132674-70-5 Unspecified
polymers with benzoic acid, Bu
acrylate, glycerol, 2-hydroxyethyl
acrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate,
N,N,N',N',N'',N''-
hexakis(methoxymethyl)-1,3,5-
triazine-2,4,6-triamine, iso-Bu
methacrylate, linseed oil, methacrylic
acid, pentaerythritol, phthalic
anhydride and styrene
Ethanaminium, N,N-diethyl-N-methyl- 133350-42-2 (C11H22NO2.C8H8.C7H12O2.C7H7O3
2-[(2-methyl-1-oxo-2-propenyl)oxy]-, S)x
salt with 4-methylbenzenesulfonic acid
(1:1), polymer with butyl 2-propenoate
and ethenylbenzene
Octadecanamide, 12-hydroxy-N - [2- 146781-64-8 C30H60N2O3
[(1- oxodecyl) amino]ethyl]-
Siloxanes and silicones, di-Me, 162567-89-7 Unspecified
methylhydrogen, reaction products
with poly(oxy-1,2-ethanediyl)], -
methyl--(2-propenyloxy)-,
poly[oxy(methyl-1,2-ethanediyl)], -(2-
propenyl)--hydroxy-, and acetic acid,
anhydride
Siloxanes and silicones, di-Me, 162567-88-6 Unspecified
methylhydrogen, reaction products
with oxirane, methyl-, polymer with
oxirane, methyl 2-propenyl ether
Phosphinic acid, bis(2,4,4- 83411-71-6 C16H35O2P
trimethylpentyl)-
57
C8H10N2OS
4(1H)-Quinazolinone, 2,3,5,6,7,8- 16064-21-4
hexahydro-2-thioxo-
58
23. ELEVENTH SIDS INITIAL ASSESSMENT MEETING (SIAM 11)
The eleventh OECD SIDS Initial Assessment Meeting (SIAM) was held in Orlando, USA from 23
to 26 January 2001. The purpose of the meeting was to review assessment reports and
recommendations on chemicals being co-operatively assessed as part of the OECD High
Production Volume (HPV) Chemicals Program.
The meeting was attended by Member countries, the Business and Industry Advisory Council, the
European Commission, the World Health Organisation's International Programme on Chemical
Safety (IPCS) and several observers.
This was the second SIDS meeting under the refocused HPV Program, which now focuses on the
hazards of the chemicals. It was also the first meeting at which SIDS assessments prepared by
industry were presented and discussed.
Members agreed to recommendations for 25 of the 31 chemicals discussed at the meeting (Table
1). Recommendations relate to whether the SIDS data set is complete and whether the chemical is
a candidate for further work.
Table 1:
CAS No. Chemical Sponsor
57-55-6 Propylene glycol US/ICCA
77-92-9 Citric Acid Switzerland/ICCA
79-41-1 Methacrylic acid Germany
80-62-6 Methyl methacrylate Denmark
95-49-8 Toluene, o-chloro- Germany/ICCA
106-88-7 Butane, 1,2-epoxy- Germany/ICCA
107-22-2 Glyoxal France
107-98-2 1-Methoxy-2-propanol US/ICCA
108-44-1 m-Toluidine Japan
108-65-6 1-Methoxy-2-propanol acetate Japan/ICCA
108-88-3 Toluene Denmark
119-47-1 6,6'-Di-t-butyl-4,4'-dimethyl-2,2'- Japan/ICCA
methylenediphenol
110-98-5 2-Propanol, 1,1'-oxydi- (combined to 25265-71- US/ICCA
8)
111-66-0 1-Octene US
112-41-4 1-Dodecene US
120-61-6 Dimethyl terephthalate Italy/US
592-41-6 1-Hexane US
760-23-6 3,4-Dichloro-1-buten Japan/Germany/
ICCA
872-05-9 1- Decene US
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1120-36-1 1-Tetradecene US
1634-04-4 Methyl tert-butyl ether Finland
4457-71-0 3-Methyl-1,5-pentadiol Japan
7664-93-9 Sulfuric acid France/ICCA
25265-71-8 Dipropylene glycol US/ICCA
32534-81-9 Pentabromodiphenyl ether UK
ICCA = Industry Council of Chemical Associations
For the following 3 chemicals, although the recommendations were agreed to, further work on the
hazard assessment is needed before the chemicals can be endorsed by the OECD Joint Meeting:
60-00-4 Edetic acid
64-02-8 Edetic acid tetrasodium salt
71-43-2 Benzene
Recommendations for the following chemicals were not agreed to and these chemicals will need to
be reconsidered at a future SIAM meeting:
127-19-5 N,N-Dimethylacetamide
5392-40-5 Citral
4979-32-2 N,N-Dicyclohexyl-2-benzothiazolesulfenamide
OECD INITIAL ASSESSMENT MEETING ON
PERFLUORO OCTANYL SULPHONATE (PFOS) AND ITS SALTS
This meeting took place on 25 January at Orlando, Florida at the request of the OECD Joint
Meeting of the Chemicals Committee and Working Party on chemicals, Pesticides and
Biotechnology. The aim of the meeting was to consolidate the assessment work being undertaken
in a number of Member countries and by Industry. The assessment work arose as a result of the
decision by the major manufacturer of PFOS compounds, 3M, to globally phase out the
manufacture of these chemicals beginning in 2001.
The meeting was attended by Member countries, the Business and Industry Advisory Council, the
European Commission, the World Health Organisation's International Programme on Chemical
Safety (IPCS) and several observers.
The major participants to date for the assessment of PFOS and its salts are the US EPA, Japan,
UK, Canada and the 3M Corporation.
The following presentations were given at the meeting:
? Ms Jennifer Seed, US EPA: Toxicity and Biomonitoring Data for PFOS and its Salts
? Mr Steve Dungey, The UK Environment Agency: Ecotoxicity of PFOS and its Salts
? Mr Shigeki Miyachi, Chemicals Evaluation and Research Institute, Japan: Bioaccumulation
Tests of PFOS
? Mr Bob Liteplo, Health Canada: Current work on PFOS compounds being undertaken by
Canada.
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The OECD Secretariat stated that expected outcome of this OECD initiative is an agreed OECD
initial assessment of this group of chemicals. It was agreed that the UK and US should take the
lead and aim to have an agreed hazard assessment completed by the middle of this year.
If you would like more information on either the SIAM 11 or PFOS meetings, please contact Ms
Deborah Willcocks by phone on (02) 95779377 or by email willcocksd@nohsc.gov.au
More information on the OECD SIDS program can be obtained from the OECD website at:
http://www.oecd.org//ehs/hpv.html
The SIDS reports are published by UNEP and can be accessed from their website at:
http://irptc.unep.ch/irptc/sids/sidspub.html
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