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Posting by dragon@eleazar.dartmouth.edu (Sam Conway) in sci.chem: I am growing weary of seeing chemicals with warning labels that imply that I shall die a horrible death simply by looking at the contents. A warning label should inform me of any REAL hazards, and of the precautions I should take when handling the reagent, and should not serve only to cover the manufacturer's derriere should some lawyer-happy numbskull decide to bathe in the product. A case in point from Fisher Scientific: CAUTION: May be harmful if inhaled. May cause irritation. Inhalation may produce irritation, coughing and acute pneumoconiosis from overwhelming exposure to dust. May cause a rapidly-developing pulmonary insufficiency, labored breathing, tachypnea and cyanosis followed by cor pulmonale and a short survival time. More frequently, after 10-25 years exposure, labored breathing, dry cough, chest pain, decreased vital capacity and diminished chest expansion may occur and progress to marked fatigue, extreme labored breathing and cyanosis, anorexia, cough with stringy mucous, pleuratic pain and incapacity to work. Death may result from cardiac failure or destruction of lung tissue with resulting anoxia. Has caused tumorigenic effects in laboratory animals. Skin contact may cause irritation and dermatitis. Eye contact may cause redness, irritation, and conjunctivitis. TARGET ORGANS AFFECTED: Eyes, skin, and mucous membranes. Provide local exhaust ventilation and/or general dilution ventilation to meet published limits. FIRST AID -- INHALATION. Remove from exposure area to fresh air immediately. If breathing has stopped, perform artificial respiration. Keep person warm and at rest. Get medical attention immediately. SKIN: Remove contaminated clothing and shoes immediately. Wash affected area with soap or mile detergent and large amounts of water (approximately 15-20 minutes). Get medical attention. EYES: Wash eyes immediately with large amounts of water, occasionally lifting upper and lower lids (approximately 15-20 minutes). Get medical attention. Yes indeed, all of this fits right on the bottle. And just what is this hazardous product? "SEA SAND, washed" God help me, I'll never go to the beach again! -- Sam Conway dragon@eleazar.dartmouth.edu Chemistry Dept., Dartmouth College Vermont Raptor Center, VINS
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