Ospho health hazards

Letter 24030

Ospho health hazards?

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My stepdad is a welder. He was using Ospho. My Mom was helping him by apparently sanding or grinding it off the metal it was sprayed on. As a result she is now very ill, this according to my stepdad. I'm not for sure if he telling me, my family, or the doctors the truth or not. The doctors can't say for sure what it is, or isn't that's causing the trouble. I'm hoping that you could tell me where I can find info on this chemical, and if you have heard of anyone else who has become ill using this product.

Kelley K
- Robertsdale, Alabama

December 27, 2008

A link to the MSDS is at the bottom of this post; the major threat would appear to be lung damage from the acid if proper breathing protection wasn't used. Medically this translates into difficultly breathing and possible pneumonia.

Her illness may have an entirely different cause--the material and her illness could be coincidental, so make sure that her doctor checks for any illness, poisoning or such which has similar symptoms.

Contact the manufacturer or distributor for an MDS. This will list the chemicals involved and their potential effects.

You can also check with your poison control center.

"SKYCO OSPHO: a balanced formula of Phosphoric, Dichromate, Wetting Agents and Extenders . . . compounded exclusively by the Skybryte Company since 1947"

Questions Not Answered Here Call Factory Direct at: 216-771-1590

Chemical
OSPHO is a balanced formula of Phosphoric acid, Sodium Dichromate, Surfactants, and Extenders.

Physical

Boiling Point 240 degrees F Specific Gravity. 1.22 + .04 Average % Nonvolatile = 37.6% + / -0.5%
Soluble in Water Color. Green Liquid Odor. Typical Acidic

Spills Neutralize with basic material, flush with plenty of water.

Respiratory Use adequate ventilation in confined areas, skin and eye protection should be used.

Fire Data No hazard

Decomposition Products Oxides of phosphorus

Health Hazards Irritant to eyes and mucous membranes. In case of external contact, flush with cool water. If swallowed, give 1 or 2 glasses of water or milk and call physician.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

Reactivity Can react with various metals to generate hydrogen gas, which could form an explosive concentration in confined spaces. Use adequate ventilation.

MSDS

Ospho Materials Safety Data Sheet
http://www.ospho.com/images/MSDS2005.pdf

Google is your friend!

Charles M. Barnard
- Menomonie, Wisconsin

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