Under normal handling and use, exposure to massive forms of nickel presents few health hazards.  If, however, massive forms are converted to particulates, then both acute and chronic health hazards are possible.  Nickel is a confirmed carcinogen with experimental carcinogenic, neoplastigenic, tumorigenic and teratogenic data.  Poison by ingestion, intratracheal, intraperitoneal, subcutaneous and intravenous routes.  An experimental teratogen.  Ingestion of soluble salts causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.  Hypersensitivity to nickel is common and can cause allergic contact dermatitis, pulmonary asthma, conjunctivitis and inflammatory reactions around nickel containing medical implants and prosthesis (Sax, Dangerous Properties of Industrial Materials).

Acute Effects:

Inhalation:  Rare cases of asthma have been reported in individuals exposed to some forms of particulates containing nickel, particularly in the nickel sulfate form.  Respiratory sensitization is possible in susceptible individuals.  Copper, if inhaled, can cause sneezing, nausea, weakness, and fever.

Ingestion:  Nickel has a low oral toxicity.  Ingestion of copper can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Skin:  Prolonged exposure to nickel may cause contact dermatitis or other allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.  Although contact with massive forms of nickel could cause dermatitis it is the finer powders which are the main hazard, especially in association with a moist environment.  Contact with copper can cause irritation and  dermatitis.

Eye:  Dust or powder may cause abrasive irritation.

Chronic Effects:

Inhalation:  No data

Ingestion:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Skin:  No chronic health effects recorded.

Eyes:  No chronic health effects recorded.

EMERGENCY AND FIRST AID PROCEDURES:

INHALATION:  Remove to fresh air.  If breathing does not improve, administer oxygen and contact a physician.

INGESTION:  If large amounts are ingested, induce vomiting only if conscious and contact a physician. 

SKIN:  Wash off contaminated areas with water or remove contaminated clothing and shower.  Contaminated clothing should be washed before reuse.  Avoid prolonged or repeated contact with the skin.

EYE:  Irrigate with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes.

VI.   REACTIVITY DATA

Stability:  Stable

Conditions to Avoid:  No data 

Incompatibility (Material to Avoid):  No data

Hazardous Decomposition Procedures:  Toxic metal oxide fumes

Hazardous Polymerization:   Will not occur

VII.   SPILL OR LEAK PROCEDURES

Steps to be Taken in Case Material is Released or Spilled:  When dealing with  powder/dust wear appropriate respiratory and protective equipment specified in section VIII.  Isolate spill area, provide ventilation and extinguish sources of ignition.  Vacuum up spill using a high efficiency particulate absolute (HEPA) air filter and place in a closed container for proper disposal.  Take care not to raise dust.  Use non-sparking tools.

Waste Disposal Method:  In accordance with all applicable Federal, State, and Local regulations.

VIII.   SPECIAL PROTECTION INFORMATION

Respiratory Protection:  NIOSH/MSHA-approved dust respirator.

Ventilation:  Local exhaust ventilation should be utilized when welding, burning, sawing, brazing, grinding or machining when exposure exceeds TLV’s.

Protective Gloves:  Leather or rubber gloves

Eye Protection:  Safety goggles

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 a tightly sealed container.  Wash thoroughly after handling.

Work Practices:  Always use gloves to avoid prolonged or repeated direct skin contact.  If particulates containing nickel are encountered, then approved respirators with a HEPA filter are recommended.  Wash in soap and water after exposure to any particulates.  Do not eat or drink in  work area.  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:     None

The above information is believed to be correct, but does not purport to be all inclusive and shall only be used 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:                  September 2004