MSDS

III. HEALTH CONCERNS

Phosphor

Except for small changes, it is essentially the same phosphor that has been in use in our

lamps for over 45 years. No significant adverse effects, either by ingestion, inhalation,

skin contact, or eye implant, were found in a five-year animal study of the original

phosphor by the Industrial Hygiene Foundation of the Mellon Institute. Also, there have

been no significant adverse effects on humans by any of these routes during the many

years of its manufacture or use. The phosphor is somewhat similar to the inert mineral

apatites (calcium phosphate-fluorides) which occur in nature.

Yttrium,Europium,Cerium,Terbium,manganese barium and magnesium compounds are

characterized by OSHA as hazardous chemicals, as are most inorganic compounds.

However, due to their insolubility, relatively low toxicity and small amount present in the

phosphor and the lamp, these materials do not present a significant hazard in the event of

breakage of the lamp.

Mercury

Neither the mercury nor the phosphor concentration in air produced as a result of

breaking one or a small number of fluorescent lamps should result in significant exposures

to the individual. However, when breaking a large number of lamps for disposal,

appropriate industrial hygiene monitoring and controls should be implemented to minimize

airborne levels or surface contamination. We recommend that the work be done in a well-

ventilated area, and local exhaust ventilation or personal protective equipment may be

needed.

The UV content emitted by the CFLs complies with the reqirement (Photobiological

safety, ANSI/IESNA RP-27.3-96, min 8h UV PET).

IV. DISPOSAL CONCERNS

TCLP

A Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) conducted on traditional

fluorescent lamp designs for mercury would most likely cause the lamps to be classified as

a hazardous waste due to the mercury content. While small numbers of these lamps

placed in ordinary trash may not appreciably effect the nature or method of disposal of the

trash, under most circumstances disposal of large quantities may be regulated. You

should review your waste handling practices to assure that you dispose of waste lamps

properly and contact your state environmental department for any regulations that may

apply.