Cobalt has a low toxicity by ingestion.  Ingestion of soluble salts produces nausea and vomiting by local irritation.  In animals, administration of cobalt salts produces an increase in the total red cell mass of the blood.  In humans, a single case of poisoning with liver and kidney damage has been attributed to cobalt.  Locally, cobalt has been shown to produce dermatitis and investigators have been able to demonstrate a hypersensitivity of the skin to cobalt.  There have been reports of  hematologic, digestive and pulmonary changes in humans (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition).

Iodides are similar in toxicity to bromides.  Prolonged absorption of iodides may produce “iodism” which is manifested by skin rash, running nose, headache and irritation to mucous membranes.  In severe cases, the skin may show pimples, boils, redness, black and blue spots, hives and blisters.  Weakness, anemia, loss of weight and general depression may occur.  Generally very soluble in water and easily absorbed into the body (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials, eighth edition).

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  DANGER-POISON.  May cause irritation to the lungs, shortness of breath, coughing, weight loss and pulmonary damage.

Ingestion:  DANGER-POISON.  May cause human systemic effects and acute cobalt poisoning.

Skin:  DANGER-POISON.  May cause irritation.

Eyes:  DANGER-POISON.  May cause irritation and possibly damage the cornea.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  May cause diffuse nodular fibrosis and respiratory sensitivity.

Ingestion:  May cause thyroid disease.

Skin:  May cause allergic sensitization, dermatitis, rashes, pimples, boils, redness, black and blue spots, hives and blisters.

Eyes:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Carcinogenicity:  NTP?  No     IARC Monographs?  No      OSHA Regulated?  No

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

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove to fresh air.  Keep victim warm and quiet.  Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.  Seek medical attention.

INGESTION:  Give 1-2 glasses of milk or water.  Induce vomiting, seek immediate medical attention.  Never induce vomiting or give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.

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

EYES:  Flush with lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower lids.  Seek medical attention.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  Heat, flame, moisture

Incompatibility:  Strong acids, strong bases, oxidizers, moisture, air.

Hazardous Decomposition Products:  CO, CoOx, I^-, I₂, oxides of nitrogen.

Hazardous Polymerization:  Will not occur.

VII.   SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to Be Taken in Case Material Is Released or Spilled:  Wear a self contained breathing apparatus and full protective clothing.  Isolate the area where the spill occurred and insure that proper ventilation is available and that water/moisture is kept out of the area.  Vacuum up spill using a high efficiency unit and place in a container for proper disposal.  Take care not to raise dust.

Waste Disposal Method:  Dispose of in accordance with Local, State and Federal waste disposal regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection: NIOSH approved respirator.

Ventilation: Handle in a controlled, enclosed environment in an inert gas such as argon.  Use local exhaust to maintain low levels of exposure.  General exhaust is not recommended.

Protective Gloves:  Neoprene

Eye Protection:  Safety glasses

Other Protective Clothing or Equipment:  Wear protective clothing to prevent contamination of skin and clothes.

IX.   SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS

Precautions to Be Taken in Handling and Storage:  Store in tightly closed containers in a cool, dry place in a controlled environment.  Cobalt Iodide is hygroscopic.  Handle and store in a controlled environment and in an inert gas such as argon.  Protect from exposure to light.

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 and smoking.  Do not blow dust off clothing or skin with compressed air.  Maintain eyewash capable of sustained flushing, safety drench shower and facilities for washing.

TSCA Listed:  Yes

DOT Regulations:

Hazard Class:                     6.1

Identification Number:      UN3288

Packing Group:                  III

Proper Shipping Name:     Toxic solid, inorganic, n.o.s., (cobalt iodide)

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 damage resulting from handling or from contact with the above product.

Issued by:                           S. Dierks

Revised/Verified:                  December 2004