Coshh
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002
Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, employers must assess and control the risks from any hazardous substances used at work. This page brings together Riverdale Falls’ COSHH risk assessments for key products such as coatings, waterproofing systems, cement-based materials, fuels and sealants, so that workers can quickly find the information they need.
Each accordion section summarises the hazards, routes of exposure, required PPE, safe-use instructions, and first-aid measures for a single substance. You can expand the relevant COSHH assessment to read it online, and use the PDF download link at the bottom of each section if you need a printable copy for site folders, inductions or job briefings.
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Product Description
Two-part epoxy paint system consisting of base (Part A) and hardener/curing agent (Part B). Used to create waterproof, durable coating on concrete, render, and other surfaces in contact with water.
Hazards (based on typical epoxy systems and manufacturer information)
Skin irritant: May cause allergic skin reaction (contact dermatitis).
Eye irritant: Causes serious eye irritation.
Respiratory irritant: Harmful if inhaled; vapours may cause drowsiness and dizziness.
Sensitizer: Repeated exposure may cause allergic reaction in some individuals.
Environmental hazard: Harmful to aquatic life in liquid form until fully cured.
Health Effects
Skin contact: Irritation, redness, dermatitis. May cause allergic reaction after repeated exposure.
Eye contact: Irritation, redness, pain. May cause serious damage if not treated promptly.
Inhalation: Headache, dizziness, nausea. Prolonged exposure in poorly ventilated areas may affect respiratory system.
Ingestion: Harmful if swallowed. May cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain.
Routes of Exposure
Direct skin contact during mixing and application
Eye contact from splashes during mixing or application
Inhalation of vapours in poorly ventilated areas
Accidental ingestion (hand-to-mouth contact)
Who Is at Risk?
Workers mixing and applying the product
Workers in vicinity during application
Anyone handling contaminated tools or equipment
Control Measures
Before Use:
Read and follow current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) stored at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms
Only trained workers to use this product
Ensure good ventilation; work outdoors or in well-ventilated areas where possible
Do not use in confined spaces without adequate ventilation and respiratory protection
During Use:
Wear appropriate PPE:
Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
Safety goggles or face shield
Respirator with organic vapour cartridge (if poor ventilation or prolonged use)
Protective clothing (long sleeves, trousers)
Barrier cream on exposed skin
Mix in well-ventilated area; follow manufacturer's mixing ratios exactly
Avoid skin and eye contact at all times
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using product
Keep containers closed when not in use
Use appropriate application tools (brushes, rollers); dispose of properly after use
After Use:
Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse
Clean tools immediately with appropriate solvent (follow manufacturer guidance)
Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations (do not pour down drains)
Storage
Store in original containers in cool, dry, well-ventilated place
Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and ignition sources
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use
Store away from food, drink, and animal feed
Keep out of reach of unauthorized persons
Shelf life: check manufacturer recommendations (typically 12-24 months)
Spillage and Disposal
Spillage:
Contain spillage immediately with absorbent materials (sand, vermiculite, absorbent pads)
Prevent entry into drains, watercourses, or soil
Scoop up absorbed material and place in sealed container for disposal
Ventilate area after cleanup
Wash contaminated area with water and detergent
Disposal:
Dispose of as hazardous waste in accordance with local regulations
Do not pour liquid product into water features, drains, or onto ground
Empty containers may contain residue; treat as hazardous waste
Fully cured product is inert and can be disposed of as normal waste
First Aid
Skin contact:
Remove contaminated clothing immediately
Wash affected area thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes
If irritation persists or allergic reaction develops, seek medical attention
Apply moisturizer to affected area after washing
Eye contact:
Rinse cautiously with water for at least 15 minutes
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do
Continue rinsing; hold eyelids open to ensure thorough flushing
Seek immediate medical attention; show SDS to medical personnel
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air immediately
Keep person warm and at rest
If breathing is difficult, give oxygen if available
If not breathing, give artificial respiration
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Ingestion:
Do NOT induce vomiting
Rinse mouth with water
Give small amounts of water to drink if person is conscious
Seek immediate medical attention; show SDS to medical personnel
Emergency Contact
Emergency services: 999
Office contact: [Insert office number]
NHS 111: For non-emergency medical advice
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
✓ Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene)
✓ Safety goggles or face shield
✓ Respirator with organic vapour cartridge (if required)
✓ Protective clothing (long sleeves and trousers)
✓ Barrier cream
Additional Notes
Product must fully cure before allowing fish or wildlife into water feature (follow manufacturer cure time, typically 5-7 days)
Ensure adequate ventilation during curing period
Warn client/occupants of product use and curing time
Keep pets and children away from application area until fully cured
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Product Description
Cementitious powder mixed with water to form a slurry. Applied as a waterproof coating to concrete and masonry surfaces. Contains cement, aggregates, and chemical additives.
Hazards
Highly alkaline: pH 12-13 when mixed with water; causes skin burns and serious eye damage
Respiratory irritant: Dust inhalation may cause respiratory irritation
Skin sensitizer: May cause allergic skin reaction (cement dermatitis)
Corrosive: Can cause chemical burns to skin and eyes
Health Effects
Skin contact: Irritation, redness, dryness, cracking. Prolonged contact causes chemical burns and dermatitis.
Eye contact: Serious eye damage; irritation, pain, redness. May cause permanent damage if not treated immediately.
Inhalation: Dust irritates nose, throat, and respiratory system. May cause coughing and breathing difficulties.
Ingestion: Burns to mouth, throat, and stomach. Causes pain and tissue damage.
Routes of Exposure
Skin contact during mixing and application
Eye contact from dust or splashes
Inhalation of dust during mixing or application
Accidental ingestion (hand-to-mouth contact)
Who Is at Risk?
Workers mixing and applying tanking slurry
Workers in vicinity during mixing (dust exposure)
Anyone handling wet product or contaminated tools
Control Measures
Before Use:
Read and follow current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) stored at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms
Check specific product brand SDS for exact hazard information
Ensure good ventilation when working indoors
Mix outdoors where possible to minimize dust exposure
During Use:
Wear appropriate PPE:
Waterproof gloves (nitrile or rubber)
Safety goggles or face shield
Dust mask/respirator (FFP2 minimum) when mixing powder
Long-sleeved shirt and trousers
Waterproof apron if doing extended application
Barrier cream on exposed skin
Mix carefully to minimize dust generation; add powder to water slowly
Work in well-ventilated areas
Avoid skin and eye contact at all times
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using product
Wash hands immediately if product contacts skin
Take regular breaks; wash hands before breaks
After Use:
Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water
Use pH-neutral hand wash if available
Apply moisturizer to prevent skin drying
Remove and wash contaminated clothing before reuse
Clean tools immediately with water before product sets
Dispose of wash water in appropriate manner (not into natural watercourses)
Storage
Store in original packaging in cool, dry place
Keep away from moisture until ready to use (powder will set if exposed to water)
Keep containers sealed when not in use
Store away from acids
Keep out of reach of unauthorized persons
Spillage and Disposal
Dry spillage (powder):
Avoid creating dust
Sweep up carefully and place in sealed container
Use damp cloth to collect residual dust
Dispose of as non-hazardous waste
Wet spillage (mixed slurry):
Contain spillage; do not allow to enter drains or watercourses
Scrape up and place in sealed container
Allow to harden, then dispose of as inert waste
Wash contaminated area with water
Disposal:
Hardened product can be disposed of as inert construction waste
Do not pour liquid slurry down drains
First Aid
Skin contact:
Remove contaminated clothing immediately
Wash affected area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes
If burns develop or irritation persists, seek medical attention
Apply moisturizer after washing
Eye contact:
Rinse immediately and continuously with water for at least 15 minutes
Hold eyelids open to ensure thorough flushing
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do
Seek immediate medical attention (alkaline burns can cause serious damage)
Continue rinsing on way to medical facility if possible
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air immediately
If breathing difficulties persist, seek medical attention
Keep person warm and at rest
Ingestion:
Do NOT induce vomiting (risk of further burns)
Rinse mouth with water
Give small amounts of water to drink if person is conscious
Seek immediate medical attention
Emergency Contact
Emergency services: 999
Office Contact: [Insert office number]
NHS 111: For non-emergency medical advice
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
✓ Waterproof gloves (nitrile or rubber)
✓ Safety goggles or face shield
✓ Dust mask/respirator (FFP2 minimum)
✓ Long-sleeved protective clothing
✓ Waterproof apron (for extended use)
✓ Barrier cream
Additional Notes
Wet cement/slurry is highly alkaline; even brief contact can cause burns
Workers with existing skin conditions should take extra care
Do not allow product to dry on skin
Ensure adequate skin care: wash thoroughly, use moisturizer, check for signs of dermatitis
Eye wash kit available in van (under front passenger seat)
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Product Description
Two-component liquid polyurethane system applied by spray or roller to create flexible, seamless waterproof membrane. Contains isocyanates and polyols.
Hazards
Respiratory sensitizer: Contains isocyanates; may cause allergy or asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties if inhaled
Skin sensitizer: May cause allergic skin reaction
Eye irritant: Causes serious eye irritation
Flammable: Liquid and vapour flammable
Harmful if inhaled: Vapours may cause respiratory irritation
Health Effects
Skin contact: Irritation, allergic reaction (dermatitis). Repeated exposure may cause sensitization.
Eye contact: Serious irritation, redness, pain. May cause damage if not treated.
Inhalation: Respiratory irritation, coughing, breathing difficulties. May trigger asthma in sensitized individuals. Repeated exposure may cause respiratory sensitization (occupational asthma).
Ingestion: Harmful if swallowed; may cause nausea and abdominal pain.
Routes of Exposure
Inhalation of vapours and aerosols during application (especially spraying)
Skin contact during mixing and application
Eye contact from splashes or aerosols
Accidental ingestion (hand-to-mouth contact)
Who Is at Risk?
Workers applying product (especially by spray application)
Workers in vicinity during application
Anyone with pre-existing respiratory conditions (asthma, bronchitis)
Control Measures
Before Use:
Read and follow current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) stored at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms
Only trained workers to use this product
Avoid spray application in enclosed spaces unless adequate ventilation and respiratory protection provided
Work outdoors or in well-ventilated areas where possible
Do not use if you have respiratory conditions (asthma, bronchitis) without medical clearance
During Use:
Wear appropriate PPE:
Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile)
Safety goggles or face shield
Respirator with organic vapour and particulate filters (mandatory for spray application)
Full-face respirator recommended for prolonged spray application
Protective coveralls
Barrier cream on exposed skin
Ensure excellent ventilation at all times
Keep ignition sources away (no smoking, sparks, hot work)
Mix and apply according to manufacturer instructions
Avoid skin and eye contact
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using product
Take regular breaks in fresh air
Monitor for respiratory symptoms
After Use:
Remove PPE carefully; avoid contaminating skin
Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water
Wash contaminated clothing before reuse
Clean tools immediately with appropriate solvent (follow manufacturer guidance)
Dispose of waste according to regulations (hazardous waste)
Seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms develop
Storage
Store in original containers in cool, dry, well-ventilated place
Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and ignition sources
Store below 25°C if possible
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use
Store away from oxidizing agents and acids
Keep out of reach of unauthorized persons
Check shelf life (follow manufacturer recommendations)
Spillage and Disposal
Spillage:
Eliminate all ignition sources
Ensure adequate ventilation
Contain spillage with absorbent materials (sand, vermiculite)
Prevent entry into drains, watercourses, or soil
Collect absorbed material and place in sealed container for disposal
Ventilate area thoroughly after cleanup
Wash contaminated area with appropriate solvent
Disposal:
Dispose of as hazardous waste in accordance with local regulations
Do not pour down drains or onto ground
Empty containers may contain flammable residue; treat as hazardous waste
First Aid
Skin contact:
Remove contaminated clothing immediately
Wash affected area thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes
If irritation or allergic reaction develops, seek medical attention
If sensitization suspected, avoid further exposure and seek medical advice
Eye contact:
Rinse immediately and continuously with water for at least 15 minutes
Hold eyelids open to ensure thorough flushing
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do
Seek immediate medical attention
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air immediately
Keep person warm and at rest
If breathing difficulties develop, seek immediate medical attention
If respiratory sensitization suspected (asthma-like symptoms), seek medical advice and avoid further exposure
If not breathing, give artificial respiration (use breathing apparatus; do not use mouth-to-mouth)
Ingestion:
Do NOT induce vomiting
Rinse mouth with water
Give small amounts of water to drink if person is conscious
Seek immediate medical attention
Emergency Contact
Emergency services: 999
Office contact: [Insert office number]
NHS 111: For non-emergency medical advice
Poison Centre: Show SDS to medical personnel
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
✓ Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile)
✓ Safety goggles or face shield
✓ Respirator with organic vapour and particulate filters (mandatory for spray work)
✓ Full-face respirator (recommended for prolonged spray application)
✓ Protective coveralls
✓ Barrier cream
Additional Notes
Isocyanate sensitization is serious: Once sensitized, even minimal exposure can trigger severe asthma
Workers must report any respiratory symptoms immediately
Do not use if you have asthma or respiratory conditions without medical clearance
Product must fully cure before allowing water or wildlife contact (follow manufacturer cure time)
Ensure adequate ventilation during curing period
Keep fire extinguisher nearby during application
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Product Description
Solvent-based contact adhesive for bonding EPDM rubber membranes. Contains organic solvents (typically toluene, xylene, or similar).
Hazards
Highly flammable: Liquid and vapour highly flammable
Harmful if inhaled: Vapours may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and respiratory irritation
Skin irritant: May cause skin irritation with prolonged contact
Eye irritant: Causes serious eye irritation
Harmful to aquatic life: Do not allow to enter watercourses
Health Effects
Skin contact: Irritation, dryness, cracking. Prolonged exposure may cause dermatitis.
Eye contact: Irritation, redness, pain, tearing.
Inhalation: Headache, dizziness, nausea, drowsiness. High concentrations may cause unconsciousness. Prolonged exposure may affect central nervous system.
Ingestion: Harmful if swallowed; may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain. Risk of aspiration if vomited.
Routes of Exposure
Inhalation of vapours during application
Skin contact during application
Eye contact from splashes or vapours
Accidental ingestion (hand-to-mouth contact)
Who Is at Risk?
Workers applying adhesive
Workers in vicinity during application (vapour exposure)
Control Measures
Before Use:
Read and follow current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) stored at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms
Check specific product brand SDS for exact hazard information
Only trained workers to use adhesive
Work outdoors or in extremely well-ventilated areas
Do not use in confined spaces or poorly ventilated areas
Eliminate all ignition sources (no smoking, sparks, hot work, flames)
During Use:
Wear appropriate PPE:
Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile)
Safety goggles
Respirator with organic vapour cartridge (if ventilation inadequate or prolonged use)
Protective clothing
Apply in well-ventilated area; work outdoors where possible
Use smallest amount necessary
Keep container closed when not in use to minimize vapour release
Apply using brush or roller (avoid spray application)
Keep ignition sources away at all times
Avoid breathing vapours; take regular breaks in fresh air
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using product
Follow manufacturer's application instructions (typically apply to both surfaces, allow to dry, then press together)
After Use:
Close container tightly immediately after use
Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse
Clean tools with appropriate solvent in well-ventilated area
Dispose of rags and waste properly (hazardous waste)
Storage
Store in original containers in cool, dry, well-ventilated place
Keep away from all sources of ignition, heat, and sparks
Store below 25°C if possible
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use
Store away from oxidizing agents
Keep out of reach of unauthorized persons
Check shelf life (typically 12 months)
Spillage and Disposal
Spillage:
Eliminate all ignition sources immediately
Ensure adequate ventilation
Contain spillage with absorbent materials (sand, vermiculite)
Prevent entry into drains, watercourses, or soil
Collect absorbed material and place in sealed container for disposal
Ventilate area thoroughly after cleanup
Dispose of contaminated absorbent as hazardous waste
Disposal:
Dispose of as hazardous waste in accordance with local regulations
Do not pour down drains or onto ground
Empty containers may contain flammable residue; treat as hazardous waste
Allow small amounts to evaporate in well-ventilated area before disposal
First Aid
Skin contact:
Remove contaminated clothing
Wash affected area with soap and water for at least 10 minutes
If irritation persists, seek medical attention
Eye contact:
Rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes
Hold eyelids open to ensure thorough flushing
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do
Seek medical attention if irritation persists
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air immediately
Keep person warm and at rest
If breathing difficulties or dizziness occurs, seek medical attention
If not breathing, give artificial respiration
Do not give anything by mouth to unconscious person
Ingestion:
Do NOT induce vomiting (risk of aspiration)
Rinse mouth with water
Give small amounts of water to drink if person is conscious
Seek immediate medical attention
Emergency Contact
Emergency services: 999
Office contact: [Insert office number]
NHS 111: For non-emergency medical advice
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
✓ Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile)
✓ Safety goggles
✓ Respirator with organic vapour cartridge (if required)
✓ Protective clothing
Additional Notes
Fire risk: Keep fire extinguisher nearby during use
Do not smoke or allow naked flames within 10 meters of application area
Ensure adequate ventilation during application and curing
Dispose of contaminated rags properly (risk of spontaneous combustion if left in enclosed space)
Allow adequate curing time before filling pond with water (follow manufacturer guidance)
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Product Description
Portland cement (OPC) mixed with sand and water to form mortar. Cement is a fine grey powder; mortar is wet paste. May contain additives (plasticizers, waterproofing agents).
Hazards
Highly alkaline: pH 12-13 when wet; causes serious skin burns and eye damage
Respiratory irritant: Cement dust irritates respiratory system
Skin sensitizer: May cause allergic skin reaction (cement dermatitis)
Corrosive: Wet cement causes chemical burns to skin and eyes
Contains chromium (VI): May cause allergic reaction in sensitized individuals
Health Effects
Skin contact: Irritation, redness, dryness, cracking, chemical burns (if prolonged contact). May cause cement dermatitis (allergic reaction).
Eye contact: Serious eye damage; pain, redness, tearing. Can cause permanent damage if not treated immediately.
Inhalation: Dust irritates nose, throat, and lungs. May cause coughing, wheezing, breathing difficulties.
Ingestion: Burns to mouth, throat, and stomach. Causes pain and tissue damage.
Routes of Exposure
Skin contact during mixing and application (especially kneeling in wet mortar, handling wet mortar)
Eye contact from dust or splashes
Inhalation of cement dust during mixing or breaking up hardened mortar
Accidental ingestion (hand-to-mouth contact)
Who Is at Risk?
Workers mixing and applying mortar
Workers in vicinity during mixing (dust exposure)
Anyone handling wet cement or mortar
Control Measures
Before Use:
Read and follow current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) stored at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms
Check specific brand SDS if using bagged ready-mix or cement with additives
Mix outdoors or in well-ventilated areas to minimize dust exposure
Use low-chromium cement where possible to reduce allergic reactions
During Use:
Wear appropriate PPE:
Waterproof gloves (nitrile or rubber) - essential at all times when handling wet cement/mortar
Safety goggles or face shield (especially during mixing)
Dust mask (FFP2 minimum) when mixing powder or working in dusty conditions
Long-sleeved shirt and trousers
Waterproof trousers or knee pads if kneeling (do not kneel directly in wet mortar)
Barrier cream on exposed skin
Add cement to water slowly to minimize dust generation
Do not handle wet cement/mortar with bare hands
Avoid skin and eye contact at all times
Wash hands immediately if cement contacts skin (do not wait)
Do not rub eyes with contaminated hands
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while working with cement
Take regular breaks; wash hands before breaks
After Use:
Wash hands and exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water immediately
Use pH-neutral hand wash if available
Apply moisturizer to prevent skin drying and cracking
Remove and wash contaminated clothing before reuse
Clean tools with water before mortar sets
Dispose of wash water appropriately (not into natural watercourses)
Check skin for signs of irritation or dermatitis; seek medical advice if symptoms develop
Storage
Store cement powder in original bags in dry place (moisture will cause it to set)
Keep away from acids
Keep bags sealed when not in use
Use oldest stock first
Store off ground on pallets
Keep out of reach of unauthorized persons
Spillage and Disposal
Dry spillage (cement powder):
Avoid creating dust
Sweep up carefully and place in sealed container
Use damp cloth or mop to collect residual dust
Dispose of as construction waste
Wet spillage (mortar):
Contain spillage; do not allow to enter drains or watercourses (alkaline - harmful to aquatic life)
Scrape up and place in sealed container
Allow to harden, then dispose of as inert construction waste
Wash contaminated area with water
Disposal:
Hardened mortar/concrete can be disposed of as inert construction waste
Do not pour liquid mortar down drains
First Aid
Skin contact:
Remove contaminated clothing immediately
Wash affected area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes
If burns develop, cover with clean dressing and seek medical attention
If irritation persists or dermatitis develops, seek medical attention
Apply moisturizer after washing
Eye contact:
This is an emergency - act immediately
Rinse immediately and continuously with water for at least 20 minutes
Hold eyelids open to ensure thorough flushing
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do
Seek immediate medical attention (alkaline burns can cause serious permanent damage)
Continue rinsing on way to medical facility if possible
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air immediately
If breathing difficulties persist, seek medical attention
Keep person warm and at rest
Ingestion:
Do NOT induce vomiting (risk of further burns)
Rinse mouth with water
Give small amounts of water to drink if person is conscious
Seek immediate medical attention
Emergency Contact
Emergency services: 999
Office contact: [Insert office number]
NHS 111: For non-emergency medical advice
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
✓ Waterproof gloves (nitrile or rubber) - MANDATORY
✓ Safety goggles or face shield
✓ Dust mask (FFP2 minimum) when mixing
✓ Long-sleeved protective clothing
✓ Waterproof trousers or knee pads (do not kneel in wet mortar)
✓ Barrier cream
Additional Notes
Wet cement is highly alkaline - even brief contact can cause burns
Do not handle wet cement/mortar with bare hands under any circumstances
Workers with existing skin conditions should take extra care
Do not allow product to dry on skin
Cement dermatitis: Watch for signs of allergic reaction (red, itchy, cracked skin). If suspected, avoid further exposure and seek medical advice.
Good skin care essential: wash thoroughly, use moisturizer regularly, check for signs of dermatitis
Eye wash kit available in van (under front passenger seat)
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Product Description
Petrol (gasoline) - highly flammable liquid hydrocarbon fuel. Stored in approved jerry cans (typically 5-20 litres). Purchased as needed from fuel stations.
Hazards
Extremely flammable: Liquid and vapour extremely flammable
Harmful if inhaled: Vapours may cause drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea
Skin irritant: Repeated or prolonged skin contact may cause irritation and dermatitis
Aspiration hazard: May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways
Environmental hazard: Toxic to aquatic life; harmful to soil
Carcinogenic: Contains benzene (known carcinogen); long-term exposure increases cancer risk
Health Effects
Skin contact: Irritation, dryness, cracking. Prolonged exposure may cause dermatitis. Absorption through skin possible.
Eye contact: Irritation, redness, pain, tearing.
Inhalation: Headache, dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, confusion. High concentrations may cause unconsciousness. Repeated exposure may affect nervous system.
Ingestion: Harmful if swallowed. Risk of aspiration into lungs (can be fatal). May cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain.
Routes of Exposure
Inhalation of vapours during refueling or handling
Skin contact during refueling or spillage
Eye contact from splashes
Accidental ingestion (rare but serious)
Who Is at Risk?
Workers refueling equipment
Workers transporting fuel in van
Workers in vicinity during refueling
Control Measures
Before Use:
Read and follow current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) stored at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms
Only competent workers to handle and dispense fuel
Plan refueling location: outdoor, well-ventilated area, away from public
Eliminate all ignition sources before refueling
During Use:
Wear appropriate PPE:
Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile)
Safety glasses
Refuel outdoors in well-ventilated area
Turn off engine before refueling
No smoking, naked flames, sparks, or hot work within 10 meters
Use appropriate jerry cans (approved for petrol storage)
Use funnel to minimize spillage
Do not overfill equipment or containers
Wipe up spills immediately with absorbent cloth
Allow vapours to disperse before starting engine
Keep container closed when not in use
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling fuel
Wash hands after handling fuel
After Use:
Close jerry can cap tightly
Store jerry can securely in van (upright, away from heat sources)
Wash hands with soap and water
Dispose of contaminated rags properly (do not leave in enclosed space - fire risk)
Storage
Store in approved jerry cans (metal or approved plastic, with proper seal)
Maximum 10 litres stored in van at any time (unless specific exemption)
Store upright and secure to prevent tipping
Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and ignition sources
Keep away from oxidizing agents
Ensure adequate ventilation in storage area
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use
Keep out of reach of unauthorized persons
Store away from food and drink
Check containers regularly for leaks or damage
Spillage and Disposal
Spillage:
Eliminate all ignition sources immediately
Evacuate area if large spill (more than 5 litres)
Ensure adequate ventilation
Contain spillage with absorbent materials (sand, absorbent pads - do not use sawdust)
Prevent entry into drains, watercourses, or soil
Collect absorbed material and place in sealed metal container
Mark container "Petrol-contaminated waste"
Dispose of as hazardous waste
Report significant spills to Environment Agency (if >1 litre enters ground or watercourse)
Disposal:
Do not pour down drains or onto ground
Do not burn
Dispose of waste petrol at approved facility (fuel station, waste disposal site)
Empty containers may contain flammable vapour; treat as hazardous waste
First Aid
Skin contact:
Remove contaminated clothing
Wash affected area with soap and water for at least 10 minutes
If irritation persists, seek medical attention
Eye contact:
Rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes
Hold eyelids open to ensure thorough flushing
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do
Seek medical attention if irritation persists
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air immediately
Keep person warm and at rest
If breathing difficulties, dizziness, or nausea occurs, seek medical attention
If unconscious, place in recovery position and seek immediate medical attention
If not breathing, give artificial respiration (use breathing apparatus; do not use mouth-to-mouth)
Ingestion:
Do NOT induce vomiting (risk of aspiration into lungs - can be fatal)
Rinse mouth with water
Give small amounts of water to drink if person is conscious
Seek immediate medical attention
If vomiting occurs spontaneously, keep person leaning forward to prevent aspiration
Emergency Contact
Emergency services: 999
Office contact: [Insert office number]
NHS 111: For non-emergency medical advice
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
✓ Chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile)
✓ Safety glasses
Additional Notes
Fire risk is extremely high - keep fire extinguisher accessible during refueling
Do not smoke or allow naked flames within 10 meters of fuel handling
Vapours are heavier than air and can travel to ignition sources
Static electricity can ignite petrol vapour - use bonding/earthing if transferring large quantities
Buy only what is needed; do not store excessive amounts
Ensure van is well-ventilated during transport
Check jerry can for leaks regularly
In event of fire: evacuate area, call 999, use foam or CO2 extinguisher (do not use water)
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Product Description
One-component RTV (Room Temperature Vulcanizing) silicone sealant. Cures by reaction with moisture in air to form flexible rubber-like seal. May be neutral cure (acetic acid release) or acetoxy cure (vinegar smell).
Hazards
Eye irritant: Causes serious eye irritation
Respiratory irritant: Acetic acid vapours (during curing) may irritate respiratory system
Skin irritant (mild): May cause mild skin irritation with prolonged contact
Low toxicity: Generally low hazard when used as directed
Health Effects
Skin contact: Mild irritation with prolonged contact. May cause dryness.
Eye contact: Irritation, redness, pain, tearing.
Inhalation: Acetic acid vapours may irritate nose, throat, and respiratory system. May cause coughing or breathing discomfort in poorly ventilated areas.
Ingestion: Low toxicity but may cause nausea if swallowed.
Routes of Exposure
Eye contact from dispensing or smoothing sealant
Inhalation of acetic acid vapours during curing (if acetoxy cure type)
Skin contact during application
Accidental ingestion (hand-to-mouth contact)
Who Is at Risk?
Workers applying sealant
Workers in vicinity during application and curing (vapour exposure in confined spaces)
Control Measures
Before Use:
Read and follow current Safety Data Sheet (SDS) stored at www.riverdalefalls.co.uk/forms
Check specific product brand SDS for exact hazard information
Use in well-ventilated areas (work outdoors where possible)
If working indoors, ensure adequate ventilation
During Use:
Wear appropriate PPE:
Gloves (optional for brief use, recommended for prolonged application)
Safety glasses (to protect from splashes when dispensing)
Apply in well-ventilated area
Avoid direct eye contact when dispensing from cartridge
Do not touch uncured sealant to eyes
Use smallest amount necessary
Smooth sealant with tool (not fingers) where possible
Avoid breathing vapours; take breaks in fresh air if strong vinegar smell present
Wash hands if product contacts skin
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using product
After Use:
Cap cartridge immediately to prevent drying out
Wipe nozzle clean before storing
Wash hands with soap and water
Clean tools with appropriate solvent or allow sealant to cure then peel off
Storage
Store in original cartridges in cool, dry place
Keep nozzle capped to prevent drying out
Store below 25°C if possible
Keep out of reach of children and unauthorized persons
Check shelf life (typically 12-18 months)
Spillage and Disposal
Spillage:
Uncured sealant: scrape up and wipe with cloth
Dispose of contaminated materials as general waste (once fully cured)
Disposal:
Allow sealant to cure fully before disposal
Cured sealant can be disposed of as general waste
Do not dispose of uncured sealant down drains
First Aid
Skin contact:
Wipe off excess sealant
Wash affected area with soap and water
If irritation develops, seek medical advice
Eye contact:
Do not rub eyes
Rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes
Hold eyelids open to ensure thorough flushing
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do
Seek medical attention
Inhalation:
Move person to fresh air
If breathing difficulties occur (rare), seek medical attention
Keep person warm and at rest
Ingestion:
Rinse mouth with water
Give small amounts of water to drink if person is conscious
Seek medical advice if discomfort persists
Emergency Contact
Emergency services: 999
Office contact: [Insert office number]
NHS 111: For non-emergency medical advice
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Required
✓ Safety glasses (recommended)
✓ Gloves (optional for brief use, recommended for prolonged application)
Additional Notes
Low hazard product when used as directed
Acetoxy cure types release acetic acid vapours (vinegar smell) during curing; ensure adequate ventilation
Neutral cure types have less odour and are less irritating
Product is safe once fully cured (typically 24 hours)
Do not use on surfaces in contact with drinking water unless food-safe grade
Keep eye wash kit accessible (stored in van)
