Note: Only forum leaders may delete posts.
*HTML is ON *UBB Code is ON Smilies Legend
Smilies Legend
[i]Are Shuttle tiles considered hazardous? The silica material in Shuttle tiles is not classified as hazardous either by Federal SARA or CERCLA standards. It is not material regulated by the EPA as hazardous waste, nor is it considered hazardous material for transport. However, the silica fiber material is listed in at least the following states’ hazardous substances lists: CA, MA, MN, NJ and PA. [list][*]The silica insulation fiber Material Safety Data Sheet (IC: 1104, Attachment 1), states that the silica fiber diameters vary between 0.3 and 0.8 microns. The World Health Organization and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health classify fibers with diameters of less than 3 microns as respirable (able to be inhaled into the lower lung). The data sheet classifies dust from this product as a mechanical irritant, which means that it may cause temporary irritation or scratchiness of the throat and/or itching of the eyes and skin. The carcinogenicity of amorphous silica fibers is not classifiable as to carcinogenicity in humans. (International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC)).[/list] When not disturbed through breakage, division, drilling or other actions that might loosen fibers and make them airborne, the silicon in Shuttle tiles can be handled safely with the proper common protective mask and clothing (gloves and long sleeves). Material from the silica fiber layer should not be ingested. Touching it should be avoided: it may cause minor skin irritations or temporary irritation or redness in the eyes. Until more data is available, it is recommended that the material not be used for live demonstrations that involve placing the material over an flame. Shuttle tiles should be kept encapsulated in plastic wrapping and protected from breakage when transporting.[/i]
[i]NASA has reviewed this option and concluded that it is preferable to dispose of the tiles through manners other than sale. Additionally, since there is no way to ensure that safe material handling information would accompany the secondary and follow-on sales that would certainly occur over time, NASA may be exposed to possible litigation if personal injuries result from mishandling or abusing tiles.[/i]
Contact Us | The Source for Space History & Artifacts
Copyright 1999-2024 collectSPACE. All rights reserved.