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HAZMAN |
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The SAPMA does not publish a list of chemicals with their ratings, users are expected to classify them themselves. This generally requires someone versed in the subject. As a help to those using the scheme the following guidelines based upon the "CHIP" classifications and the OHS Act OELs are suggested. It is up to the person classifying to make a final choice. Note that when a chemical has an OEL or contains a substance with an OEL, then the workplace could needs to be monitored.
All Material Safety Data Sheets should conform to the OHS Act This means that they should contain the "CHIP" information as well as the OELs. In accordance with the OHS Act, the supplier should provide MSDSs.
The classification is based upon SANS 10265
Note that these do not cover transport requirements this requires a different logic (See SANS 10228, 10229 and 10232).
| EC CHIP OR SANS 10265 | SAPMA |
|---|---|
| "T+" or "T"(VERY TOXIC or TOXIC) | 1H |
| OEL with "Control Limit" CL | 1H * |
| "Xn" (HARMFUL) OR "Xi" (IRRITANT) | 2H ** |
| STOEL only (Recommended Level) | 2H |
| Presence of above items (<Action %age) | 3H |
| OEL only (Recommended Level) | 3H |
| Only classified as "Nuisance Particulate" | 3H |
| CORROSIVE "C" | 2HF *** |
| CORROSIVE "C" + OEL | 2HG *** |
| TOXIC "T" & CORROSIVE "C" | 1HF/J/K *** |
| TOXIC "T" & CORROSIVE "C" & OEL | 1HG/J/K *** |
* "Control Limit" is used by OHS Act. EC now uses term Maximum Exposure Level" (MEL) ie carcinogens & the like will also be "Toxic" and so call for "1H" category.
** Under certain conditions (eg minor component of a preparation) a 3H could be used for "Xi IRRITANT". - "R" (Phrases are a guide to the final choice.)
***"R" Phrases are a guide to the final choice. If the chemical involved could affect other workers or, alternatively, the hazard is so high that a worker should not be alone, use "K". This serves as a warning to both the worker and the supervisor.
| OEL or EC CLASS | PPE LETTER | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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POWDER | LIQUID or PASTE | FUME or VAPOUR | GAS | ||
| T+ | K | K | K | K | ||
| T. | K | K | K | E | ||
| C | J | F | G | E | ||
| Xn | D | E | E | E | ||
| Xi | D | C | E | E | ||
| NONE + OEL | D | C | E | E | ||
| NONE | B | C | C | A | ||
Use "R" & "S" Phrases for more accurate guidance.
This is a guide to the Hazard i.e. the potential to cause harm. The risk depends upon the circumstances at the time of use and so is the responsibility of the employer.
The management cannot change the HAZARD - but they can minimize the RISK!
Note Assuming that a workplace has been monitored and found to be safe under normal operating conditions the use of PPE should only be considered necessary at operating points where the appropriate SABS sign is displayed. i.e. when the STOEL is likely to be exceeded.
Note this is not an official SAPMA document - it has been compiled to assist those using hazardous substances and provides a yardstick
