Sodium fluorosilicate: S6 (Poison) See the Ixom Material Safety Data Sheet Sodium silicofluoride

This material is hazardous according to criteria of ASCC; HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE.

Subclasses:
6.1 Category C: Substances which are acutely toxic.
6.4 Category A: Substances that are irritating to the eye.
9.3 Category B: Substances that are ecotoxic to terrestrial vertebrates.

Sodium Fluorosilicate

 

Contaminants

Because the sodium fluorosilicate purchased for fluoridation is a waste by-product of industrial processes, it is contaminated with lead, iron, sulfate, and “insolubles”. See Certificate of Analysis from Prayon (Belgium supplier used by NZ municipalities).

Materials Safety Data Sheet

Toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed.

Ingestion: swallowing can result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Larger exposures may result in muscular weakness, shock, convulsions and spasms. Can be fatal due to respiratory and cardiac failure. Irritant to eyes, skin, lungs.

Long Term Effects:
Repeated or prolonged exposure may result in fluorosis. Fluorosis in humans can result with the repeated ingestion of >6mg of fluorine per day. The fluoride accumulates in bone and can lead to the development of osteosclerosis and other bone changes. Teeth may also be affected. Symptoms of fluorosis may include weight loss, brittle bones, anaemia, weakness and stiffness of joints.

Do not breathe dust. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice. Wear suitable protective clothing, gloves and eye/face protection. In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show the label whenever possible).

For advice, contact a Poisons Information Centre or a doctor at once. Urgent hospital treatment is likely to be needed.

Wear overalls, chemical goggles and impervious gloves. Avoid generating and inhaling dusts. If dust exists, wear dust mask/respirator meeting the requirements of AS/NZS 1715 and AS/NZS 1716. Always wash hands before smoking, eating, drinking or using the toilet. Wash contaminated clothing and other protective equipment before storage or re-use.

Ecotoxicity:
Avoid contaminating waterways. Although an active ingredient in this material is toxic to the aquatic environment, if used in accordance with the recommendations it is not expected to present a risk to the environment.

Accidental release measures: Clear area of all unprotected personnel. If contamination of sewers or waterways has occurred advise local emergency services.