If I need to wear a respirator, what kind should it be?
If engineering controls and work practices are not effective in controlling exposure to this material, then wear suitable personal protective equipment including approved respiratory protection. Have appropriate equipment available for use in emergencies such as spills or fire.
If respiratory protection is required, institute a complete respiratory protection program including selection, fit testing, training, maintenance and inspection. Refer to the CSA Standard Z94.4-93, "Selection, Use and Care of Respirators," available from the Canadian Standards Association, Rexdale, Ontario, M9W 1R3.
RESPIRATORY PROTECTION GUIDELINES:
NIOSH RECOMMENDATIONS FOR GASOLINE CONCENTRATIONS IN AIR: AT CONCENTRATIONS ABOVE THE NIOSH REL, OR WHERE THERE IS NO REL, AT ANY DETECTABLE CONCENTRATION: Positive pressure, full-facepiece SCBA; or positive pressure, full-facepiece SAR with an auxiliary positive pressure SCBA.
ESCAPE: Gas mask with organic vapour canister; or escape-type SCBA.
NOTE: The NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL) for gasoline has not been established.
NOTE: NIOSH has classified this material as a potential occupational carcinogen, according to specific NIOSH criteria, with no recommended exposure limit (REL). This classification is reflected in these recommendations for respiratory protection, which specify that only the most reliable and protective respirators be worn at any detectable concentration. The requirements in Canadian jurisdictions may vary.
The respirator use limitations specified by the approving agency and the manufacturer must be observed.
ABBREVIATIONS: SAR = supplied-air respirator; SCBA = self-contained breathing apparatus. IDLH = Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health.
What eye/face protection is recommended for working with gasoline?
Splash-proof chemical safety goggles or face shield (eight inch minimum), as required.
What skin protection measures are recommended when working with gasoline?
Chemical resistant gloves, coveralls, boots, etc., as required. Have a safety shower/eye-wash fountain readily available in the immediate work area.
What types of materials should my protective clothing be made of?
Guidelines for gasoline 40-55% aromatic:
RECOMMENDED (resistance to breakthrough longer than 8 hours): Nitrile rubber, Teflon(TM), Viton(TM), Barricade(TM), Responder(TM), CPF 3(TM).
RECOMMENDED (resistance to breakthrough longer than 4 hours): 4H(TM) (polyethylene/ethylene vinyl alcohol).
NOT RECOMMENDED for use (resistance to breakthrough less than 1 hour): Butyl rubber, natural rubber, neoprene, polyvinyl chloride.
Guidelines for gasoline, unleaded:
RECOMMENDED (resistance to breakthrough longer than 8 hours): Viton(TM), Barricade(TM), nitrile rubber.
RECOMMENDED (resistance to breakthrough longer than 4 hours): Polyvinyl alcohol, Responder(TM), 4H(TM) (polyethylene/ethylene vinyl alcohol).
NOT RECOMMENDED for use (resistance to breakthrough less than 1 hour): Butyl rubber, natural rubber, neoprene, polyvinyl chloride .
Recommendations are NOT valid for very thin natural rubber, Neoprene, nitrile and PVC gloves (0.3 mm or less).
Recommendations are valid for permeation rates reaching 0.1 µg/cm2/min or 1 mg/m2/min and over. Resistance of specific materials can vary from product to product. Breakthrough times are obtained under conditions of continuous contact, generally at room temperature. Evaluate resistance under conditions of use and maintain clothing carefully.
Reference: Forsberg, K., et al. Quick selection guide to chemical protective clothing. 3rd edition. Van Nostrand Reinhold, 1997.
Is there anything else I need to do to reduce my exposure?
Remove contaminated clothing promptly. Contaminated clothing poses a fire hazard. Keep contaminated clothing in closed containers and away from ignition sources. Discard or launder before rewearing. Inform laundry personnel of contaminant's hazards. Do not smoke, drink or eat in work areas. Wash hands thoroughly after handling this material. Maintain good housekeeping.
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