Bismuth and its salts can cause kidney damage, although the degree of such damage is usually mild.  Large doses can be fatal.  Industrially it is considered one of the less toxic of the heavy metals.  Serious and sometimes fatal poisoning may occur from the injection of large doses into closed cavities and from extensive application to burns.  It is stated that the administration of bismuth should be stopped when gingivitis appears, for otherwise serious ulceration stomatitis is likely to result.  Other toxic results may develop, such as a vague feeling of bodily discomfort, presence of albumin or other protein substance in the urine, diarrhea, skin reactions and sometimes serious exodermatitis.

Tungsten compounds are considered somewhat more toxic than those of molybdenum.  However, industrially, this element does not constitute an important health hazard.  Heavy exposure to the dust or the ingestion of large amounts of the soluble compounds produces changes in body weight, behavior, blood cells, choline esterase activity and sperm in experimental animals.  (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition)

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  Inhalation may cause mild to moderate irritation of the respiratory system.

Ingestion:  Insoluble bismuth compounds are generally considered to be of low toxicity.  Chronic exposure via inhalation or ingestion can cause the development of "bismuth line", a blue-black line of the gum as well as foul breath and  excessive salivation.

Skin:  May cause irritation.

Eye:  May cause irritation.

Chronic Effects:  May cause dermatitis.  No other chronic effects recorded.

Target Organs:  May affect the kidneys

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure:  Pre-existing respiratory disorders.

Carcinogenicity:  NTP:  No      IARC:  No      OSHA:  No

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove to fresh air, keep warm and quiet, give oxygen if breathing is difficult and seek medical attention.

INGESTION:  If conscious, give 1-2 glasses of milk or water and induce vomiting.  Seek medical attention immediately.

SKIN:  Remove any contaminated clothing, brush material off of skin, flush with running water, wash carefully with soap and water, seek medical attention.

EYE:  Flush with water, lifting upper and lower eyelids, for at least 15 minutes.  Seek medical attention immediately.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  None

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  No data recorded

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  Bismuth, oxides of bismuth, tungsten, oxides of tungsten.

Hazardous Polymerization:  None

VII.   SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to Be Taken in Case Material Is Released or Spilled:  Wearing protective clothing specified in section VIII, vacuum up using a high efficiency particulate absolute (HEPA) air filter.  Empty containers should be disposed of in a manner which will not cause dusting during transportation to the ultimate disposal site.

Waste Disposal Method:  In accordance with Local, State and Federal Waste Disposal Regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  Use a NIOSH/MSHA approved dust, fume, mist respirator.

Ventilation:  Handle in a controlled atmosphere.  Use local exhaust to maintain concentration at low exposure levels.  General exhaust is recommended.

Protective Gloves:  Neoprene

Eye Protection:  Safety glasses

Other Protective Equipment:   Protective gear suitable to prevent contamination.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in a cool dry area.  Store in tightly sealed container.  Wash thoroughly after handling.  Do not get in eyes, on skin or clothing.  Do not breathe dust, vapor, mist, or gas.

Other Precautions:  Handle in a controlled atmosphere.

Work Practices:  Implement engineering and work practice controls to reduce and maintain concentration of exposure at low levels.  Use good housekeeping and sanitation practices.  Do not use tobacco or food in work area.  Wash thoroughly before eating or smoking.  Do not blow dust off clothing or skin with compressed air.  Maintain eyewash capable of sustained flushing and safety drench shower in work area.

The above information is believed to be correct, but does not purport to be all inclusive and shall be used only as a guide.  ESPI shall not be held liable for any damages resulting from handling or contact with the above product.

Issued by:                           S. Dierks

Revised/Verified:                  October 2002