Guidelines for Safe Handling of Carbon Black
Storage and Handling: Carbon black should be stored in a clean, dry, uncontaminated area away from exposure to high temperatures, open flame sources and strong oxidizers (e.g., chlorates, bromates, and nitrates). Since carbon black will adsorb moisture and chemical vapors, it should be stored in closed containers.
Housekeeping: Spill clean-up and general housekeeping are very important for controlling carbon black exposures. Carbon black dust spreads easily in air through virtually any air current or movement. Additionally, because carbon black is a pigment, it may stain exposed surfaces. Housekeeping procedures that avoid the production of dust or generation of fugitive emissions in the process are highly recommended. Dry vacuuming, with appropriate filtration, is the preferred method for removing surface dust and cleaning spills. Dry sweeping should be avoided. Bulk carbon black should always be covered or contained. Care should be taken to avoid generating conditions that may result in unnecessary exposure.
Acute First Aid: There is no evidence to suggest that acute exposure to carbon black may result in life threatening injury or illness. Carbon black is not a respiratory irritant, as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and does not produce respiratory or dermal sensitization. Ingestion is an unlikely method of accidental exposure. Like many dusts, inhalation may initiate a bronchial response among individuals with pre-existing lung conditions.
Inhalation: Short-term exposures to elevated concentrations may produce temporary discomfort to the upper respiratory tract, which may result in coughing and wheezing. Removal from carbon black exposure is normally sufficient to cause symptoms to subside without lasting effects.
Skin: Carbon black dust or powder may cause drying of the skin with repeated and prolonged contact. Skin drying may also result from frequent washing of carbon black contaminated skin. Carbon black may be washed from the skin using mild soap and water along with gentle scrubbing action. A waterless skin cleaner may also be used. Repeat washing may be necessary to remove carbon black. A protective barrier cream on exposed skin surfaces may also be an effective method for minimizing dermal exposure.
Ingestion: No adverse effects are expected from carbon black ingestion. Do not induce vomiting.
Eye: Carbon black is not a chemical irritant. Treat symptomatically for mechanical irritation. Rinse eyes thoroughly with water to remove dust. If irritation persists or symptoms develop, seek medical attention.
Guidelines for Safe Transport of Carbon Black
Shipping Containers: Reusable shipping containers should be returned to the manufacturer. Paper bags may be incinerated, recycled, or disposed of in an appropriate landfill in accordance with national and local regulations.
Self-Heating: Carbon black has been tested in accordance with the U.N. method, Self-Heating Solids, and found to be “Not a self-heating substance of Division 4.2.” In addition, carbon black has been tested in accordance with the U.N. method, Readily Combustible Solids, and found to be “Not a readily combustible solid of Division 4.1,” under current U.N. Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods.
Transportation Classifications: Commercial carbon black is not classified as a hazardous material by the following agencies:
U.N. Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods
European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods (ADR)
Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID), part of the Convention concerning International Carriage by Rail
European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Inland Waterways (AND)
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea — International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code)
Convention on International Civil Aviation — Annex 18 — Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air
Canadian Transport of Dangerous Goods Regulations
International Air Transport Association (IATA-DGR)
MARPOL 73/78, Annex II
IBC-Code
United States Department of Transportation
Canadian Transport of Dangerous Goods Regulation
Australian Dangerous Goods Code
Specific questions regarding transport classification should be referred to your carbon black supplier.