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(continued)
V. PROTECTIVE CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
Employees shall be provided with and be required to wear appropriate protective clothing wherever there is significant potential for skin contact with liquid EtO or EtO-containing solutions. Protective clothing shall include impermeable coveralls or similar full-body work clothing, gloves, and head coverings, as appropriate to protect areas of the body which may come in contact with liquid EtO or EtO-containing solutions.
Employers must ascertain that the protective garments are impermeable to EtO. Permeable clothing, including items made of rubber, and leather shoes should not be allowed to become contaminated with liquid EtO or EtO-containing solutions. If permeable clothing does become contaminated, it should be immediately removed while the employee is under an emergency deluge shower. If leather footwear or other leather garments become wet from EtO they should be discarded and not be worn again because leather absorbs EtO and holds it against the skin.
Any protective clothing that has been damaged or is otherwise found to be defective should be repaired or replaced. Clean protective clothing should be provided to the employee as necessary to assure employee protection. Whenever impermeable clothing becomes wet with liquid EtO or EtO-containing solutions, it should be washed down with water before being removed by the employee. Employees are also required to wear splash-proof safety goggles where there is any possibility of EtO contacting the eyes.
VI. MISCELLANEOUS PRECAUTIONS
(A) Store EtO in tightly closed containers in a cool, well-ventilated area and take all necessary precautions to avoid any explosion hazard.
(B) Non-sparking tools must be used to open and close metal containers. These containers must be effectively grounded and bonded.
(C) Do not incinerate EtO cartridges, tanks or other containers.
(D) Employers shall advise employees of all areas and operations where exposure to EtO could occur.
VII. COMMON OPERATIONS
Common operations in which exposure to EtO is likely to occur include the following: Manufacture of EtO, surfactants, ethanolamines, glycol ethers, and specialty chemicals, and use as a sterilant and fumigant in the hospital, health product and spice industries.






Appendix C
Medical Surveillance Guidelines for Ethylene Oxide

I. ROUTE OF ENTRY
Inhalation.
II. TOXICOLOGY
Clinical evidence of adverse effects associated with exposure to EtO is present in the form of increased incidence of cancer in laboratory animals (leukemia, stomach, brain), mutation in offspring in animals, and resorptions and spontaneous abortions in animals and human populations, respectively. Findings in humans and experimental animals exposed to airborne EtO also indicate damage to the genetic material (DNA). These include hemoglobin alkylation, unscheduled DNA synthesis, sister chromatid exchange, chromosomal aberration, and functional sperm abnormalities.
Ethylene oxide in liquid form can cause eye irritation and injury to the cornea, frostbite, severe irritation, and blistering of the skin upon prolonged or confined contact. Ingestion of EtO can cause gastric irritation and liver injury. Other effects from inhalation of EtO vapors include respiratory irritation and lung injury, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dyspnea and cyanosis.
III. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ACUTE OVEREXPOSURE
The early effects of acute overexposure to EtO are nausea and vomiting, headache, and irritation of the eyes and respiratory passages. The patient may notice a "peculiar taste" in the mouth. Delayed effects can include pulmonary edema, drowsiness, weakness, and incoordination. Studies suggest that blood cell changes, an increase in chromosomal aberrations, and spontaneous abortion may also be causally related to acute overexposure to EtO.
Skin contact with liquid or gaseous EtO causes characteristic burns and possibly even an allergic-type sensitization. The edema and erythema occurring from skin contact with EtO progress to vesiculation with a tendency to coalesce into blebs with desquamation. Healing occurs within three weeks, but there may be a residual brown pigmentation. A 40-80% solution is extremely dangerous, causing extensive blistering after only brief contact. Pure liquid EtO causes frostbite because of rapid evaporation.
Most reported acute effects of occupational exposure to EtO are due to contact with EtO in liquid phase. The liquid readily penetrates rubber and leather, and will produce blistering if clothing or footwear contaminated with EtO are not removed.
IV. SURVEILLANCE AND PREVENTIVE CONSIDERATIONS
As noted above, exposure to EtO has been linked to an increased risk of cancer and reproductive effects including decreased male fertility, fetotoxicity, and spontaneous abortion. EtO workers are more likely to have chromosomal damage than similar groups not exposed to EtO. At the present, limited studies of chronic effects in humans resulting from exposure to EtO suggest a causal association with leukemia. Animal studies indicate leukemia and cancers at other sites (brain, stomach) as well. The physician should be aware of the findings of these studies in evaluating the health of employees exposed to EtO.
Adequate screening tests to determine an employee's potential for developing serious chronic diseases, such as cancer, from exposure to EtO do not presently exist. Laboratory tests may, however, give evidence to suggest that an employee is potentially overexposed to EtO. It is important for the physician to become familiar with the operating conditions in which exposure to EtO is likely to occur. The physician also must become familiar with the signs and symptoms that indicate a worker is receiving otherwise unrecognized and unacceptable exposure to EtO. These elements are especially important in evaluating the medical and work histories and in conducting the physical examination. When an unacceptable exposure in an active employee is identified by the physician, measures taken by the employer to lower exposure should also lower the risk of serious long-term consequences.
The employer is required to institute a medical surveillance program for all employees who are or will be exposed to EtO at or above the action level (0.5 ppm) for at least 30 days per year, without regard to respirator use. All examinations and procedures must be performed by or under the supervision of a licensed physician at a reasonable time and place for the employee and at no cost to the employee.
Although broad latitude in prescribing specific tests to be included in the medical surveillance program is extended to the examining physician, OSHA requires inclusion of the following elements in the routine examination:
[i] Medical and work histories with special emphasis directed to symptoms related to the pulmonary, hematologic, neurologic, and reproductive systems and to the eyes and skin.
[ii] Physical examination with particular emphasis given to the pulmonary, hematologic, neurologic, and reproductive systems and to the eyes and skin.

[iii] Compete blood count to include at least a white cell count (including differential cell count), red cell count, hematocrit, and hemoglobin.
[iv] Any laboratory or other test which the examining physician deems necessary by sound medical practice.
If requested by the employee, the medical examinations shall include pregnancy testing or laboratory evaluation of fertility as deemed appropriate by the physician.
In certain cases, to provide sound medical advice to the employer and the employee, the physician must evaluate situations not directly related to EtO. For example, employees with skin diseases may be unable to tolerate wearing protective clothing. In addition, those with chronic respiratory diseases may not tolerate the wearing of negative pressure (air purifying) respirators. Additional tests and procedures that will help the physician determine which employees are medically unable to wear such respirators should include: an evaluation of cardiovascular function, a baseline chest X-ray to be repeated at five-year intervals, and a pulmonary function test to be repeated every three years. The pulmonary function test should include measurement of the employee's forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume at one second (FEV1), the calculation of the ratio of FEV1 to FVC, and the calculation of the ratio of measured FVC and measured FEV1 values to predicted FVC and FEV 1 values based on age, sex, race, and height.
The employer is required to make the prescribed tests available at least annually to employees who are or will be exposed at or above the action level for 30 or more days per year; more often than specified if recommended by the examining physician; and upon the employee's termination of employment or reassignment to another work area. While little is known about the long term consequences of high short-term exposures, it appears prudent to monitor such affected employees closely in light of existing health data. The employer shall provide physician-recommended examinations to any employee exposed to EtO in emergency conditions. Likewise, the employer shall make available medical consultations including physician-recommended examinations to employees who believe they are suffering signs or symptoms of exposure to EtO.
The employer is required to provide the physician with the following information: a copy of this standard and its appendices; a description of the affected employee's duties as they relate to the employee exposure level; and information from the employee's previous medical examinations which is not readily available to the examining physician. Making this information available to the physician will aid in the evaluation of the employee's health in relation to assigned duties and the employee's fitness to wear personal protective equipment, if required.
The employer is required to obtain a written opinion from the examining physician containing the results of the medical examinations; the physician's opinion as to whether the employee has any detected medical conditions which would place the employee at increased risk of material impairment of his or her health from exposure to EtO; any recommended restrictions upon the employee's exposure to EtO, or upon the use of protective clothing or equipment such as respirators; and a statement that the employee has been informed by the physician of the results of the medical examination and of any medical conditions which require further explanation or treatment. This written opinion must not reveal specific findings or diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposure to EtO, and a copy of the opinion must be provided to the affected employee.
The purpose in requiring the examining physician to supply the employer with a written opinion is to provide the employer with a medical basis to aid in the determination of initial placement of employees and to assess the employee's ability to use protective clothing and equipment.






Appendix D
Sampling and Analytical Method for Ethylene Oxide

This appendix contains details for the method which has been tested at the OSHA Analytical Laboratory in Salt Lake City. Inclusion of this method in the appendix does not mean that this method is the only one which will be satisfactory.
Employers who note problems with sample breakthrough using the OSHA or other charcoal methods should try larger charcoal tubes. Tubes of larger capacity are available. In addition, lower flow rates and shorter sampling times should be beneficial in minimizing breakthrough problems.
ETHYLENE OXIDE METHOD NO. : 30
Matrix: Air.
Target Concentration: 1.0 ppm (1.8 mg/m 3).
Procedure: Samples are collected on two charcoal tubes in series and desorbed with 1% CS 2 in benzene. The samples are derivatized with HBr and treated with sodium carbonate. Analysis is done by gas chromatography with an electron capture detector.
Recommended Air Volume and Sampling Rate: 1 liter and 0.05 Lpm.
Detection Limit of the Overall Procedure: 13.3 ppb (0.024 mg/m 3) (Based on 1.0 liter air sample).
Reliable Quantitation Limit: 52.2 ppb (0.094 mg/m 3) (Based on 1.0 liter air sample).
Standard Error of Estimate: 6.59%.
Special Requirements: Samples must be analyzed within 15 days of sampling date.
Status of Method: The sampling and analytical method has been subjected to the established evaluation procedures of the Organic Method Evaluations Branch.
1. General Discussion.
1.1 Background.
1.1.1 History of Procedure.
In studies to develop a method for the analysis of EtO at very low concentrations, it was found that the reaction of EtO with HBr (hydrobromic acid) gave a derivative, 2-bromoethanol, readily detectable by an ECD (electron capture detector) due to the presence of the bromine. Of solvents tested for their response on the ECD and their ability to desorb EtO from the charcoal, benzene was the only solvent tested that gave a suitable response on the ECD and a high desorption. The desorption efficiency was improved by using 1% CS 2 (carbon disulfide) with the benzene.
1.1.2 Physical Properties.
See Section 5220, Appendix B.
1.2 Limit Defining Parameters.
1.2.1 Detection Limit of the Analytical Procedure.
The detection limit of the analytical procedure is 12.0 picograms of ethylene oxide per injection. This is the amount of analyte which will give a peak whose height is five times the height of the baseline noise.
1.2.2 Detection Limit of the Overall Procedure.
The detection limit of the overall procedure is 24.0 nanograms of ethylene oxide per sample. This is the amount of analyte spiked on the sampling device which allows recovery of an amount of analyte equivalent to the detection limit of the analytical procedure.
1.2.3 Reliable Quantitation Limit.
The reliable quantitation limit is 94.0 nanograms of ethylene oxide per sample. This is the smallest amount of analyte which can be quantiated within the requirements of 75% recovery and 95% confidence limits.
It must be recognized that the reliable quantitation limit and detection limit are based upon optimization of the instrument for the smallest possible amount of analyte. When the target concentration of an analyte is exceptionally higher than these limits, they may not be attainable at the routine operating parameters. The limits reported on analysis reports must be based on the operating parameters used during the analysis of the samples.
1.2.4 Sensitivity.
The sensitivity of the analytical procedure over a concentration range representing 0.5 to 2 times the target concentration based on the recommended air volume is 34105 area units per m g/mL. The sensitivity is determined by the slope of the calibration curve.
The sensitivity will vary somewhat with the particular instrument used in the analysis.
1.2.5 Recovery.
The recovery of analyte from the collection medium must be 75% or greater. The average recovery from spiked samples over the range of 0.5 to 2 times the target concentration is 88.0%. At lower concentrations the recovery appears to be non-linear.
1.2.6 Precision (Analytical Method Only).
The pooled coefficient of variation obtained from replicate determinations of analytical standards at 0.5X, 1X and 2X the target concentration is 0.036.
1.2.7 Precision (Overall Procedure).
The overall procedure must provide results at the target concentration that are 25% or better at the 95% confidence level. The precision at the 95% confidence level for the 15-day storage test is plus or minus 12.9%.
This includes an additional plus or minus 5% for sampling error.
1.3 Advantages.
1.3.1 The sampling procedure is convenient.
1.3.2 The analytical procedure is very sensitive and reproducible.
1.3.3 Reanalysis of samples is possible.
1.3.4 Samples are stable for at least 15 days at room temperature.
1.3.5 Interferences are reduced by the long GC retention time of the derivative.
1.4 Disadvantages.
1.4.1 Two tubes in series must be used because of possible breakthrough and migration.
1.4.2 The precision of the sampling rate may be limited by the reproducibility of the pressure drop across the tubes. The pumps are usually calibrated for one tube only.
1.4.3 The use of benzene as the desorption solvent increases the hazards of analysis because of the potential carcinogenic effects of benzene.
1.4.4 After repeated injections there can be a buildup of residue formed on the electron capture detector which decreases sensitivity.
1.4.5 Recovery from the charcoal tubes appears to be nonlinear at low concentrations.
2. Sampling Procedure.
2.1 Apparatus.
2.1.1 A calibrated personal sampling pump whose flow can be determined within plus or minus 5% of the recommended flow.
2.1.2 Charcoal tubes: glass tube with both ends flame sealed, 7 cm long with a 6-mm O.D. and a 4-mm I.D., containing 2 sections of coconut shell charcoal separated by a 3-mm portion of urethane foam. The adsorbing section contains 100 mg of charcoal, the backup section 50 mg. A 3-mm portion of urethane foam is placed between the outlet end of the tube and the backup section. A plug of silylated glass wool is placed in front of the adsorbing section.
2.2 Reagents.
2.2.1 None required.
2.3 Sampling Technique.
2.3.1 Immediately before sampling, break the ends of the charcoal tubes. All tubes must be from the same lot.
2.3.2 Connect two tubes in series to the sampling pump with a short section of flexible tubing. A minimum amount of tubing is used to connect the two sampling tubes together. The tube closer to the pump is used as a backup. This tube should be identified as the backup tube.
2.3.3 The tubes should be placed in a vertical position during sampling to minimize channeling.
2.3.4 Air being sampled should not pass through any hose or tubing before entering the charcoal tubes.
2.3.5 Seal the charcoal tubes with plastic caps immediately after sampling. Also, seal each sample with OSHA seals lengthwise.
2.3.6 With each batch of samples, submit at least one blank tube from the same lot used for samples. This tube should be subjected to exactly the same handling as the samples (break, seal, transport) except that no air is drawn through it.
2.3.7 Transport the samples (and corresponding paperwork) to the lab for analysis.
2.3.8 If bulk samples are submitted for analysis, they should be transported in glass containers with Teflon-lined caps. These samples must be mailed separately from the container used for the charcoal tubes.
2.4 Breakthrough.
2.4.1 The breakthrough (5% breakthrough) volume for a 3.0 mg/m 3 ethylene oxide sample stream at approximately 85% relative humidity, 22 <> C and 633 mm is 2.6 liters sampled at 0.05 liters per minute. This is equivalent to 7.8 m g of ethylene oxide. Upon saturation of the tube it appeared that the water may be displacing ethylene oxide during sampling.
2.5 Desorption Efficiency.
2.5.1 The desorption efficiency, from liquid injection onto charcoal tubes, averaged 88.0% from 0.5 to 2.0 x the target concentration for a 1.0-liter air sample. At lower ranges it appears that the desorption efficiency is non-linear.
2.5.2 The desorption efficiency may vary from one laboratory to another and also from one lot of charcoal to another. Thus, it is necessary to determine the desorption efficiency for a particular lot of charcoal.
2.6 Recommended Air Volume and Sampling Rate.
2.6.1 The recommended air volume is 1.0 liter.
2.6.2 The recommended maximum sampling rate is 0.05 Lpm.
2.7 Interferences.
2.7.1 Ethylene glycol and Freon 12 at target concentration levels did not interfere with the collection of ethylene oxide.
2.7.2 Suspected interferences should be listed on the sample data sheets.
2.7.3 The relative humidity may affect the sampling procedure.
2.8 Safety Precautions.
2.8.1 Attach the sampling equipment to the employee so that it does not interfere with work performance.
2.8.2 Wear safety glasses when breaking the ends of the sampling tubes.
2.8.3 If possible, place the sampling tubes in a holder so the sharp end is not exposed while sampling.
3. Analytical Method.
3.1 Apparatus.
3.1.1 Gas chromatograph equipped with a linearized electron capture detector.
3.1.2 GC column capable of separating the derivative of ethylene oxide (2- bromoethanol) from any interferences and the 1% CS 2 in benzene solvent. The column used for validation studies was: 10 ft x 1/8-inch stainless steel 20% SP-2100, 0.1% Carbowax 1500 on 100/120 Supelcoport.
3.1.3 An electronic integrator or some other suitable method of measuring peak areas.
3.1.4 Two milliliter vials with Teflon-lined caps.
3.1.5 Gas tight syringe -500 L or other convenient sizes for preparing standards.
3.1.6 Microliter syringes -10 L or other convenient size for diluting standards and 1 L for sample injections.
3.1.7 Pipets for dispensing the 1% CS 2 in benzene solvent. The Glenco 1 mL dispenser is adequate and convenient.
3.1.8 Volumetric flasks -5 mL and other convenient sizes for preparing standards.
3.1.9 Disposable Pasteur Pipets.
3.2 Reagents.
3.2.1 Benzene, reagent grade.
3.2.2 Carbon disulfide, reagent grade.
3.2.3 Ethylene oxide, 99.7% pure.
3.2.4 Hydrobromic acid, 48% reagent grade.
3.2.5 Sodium carbonate, anhydrous, reagent grade.
3.2.6 Desorbing reagent, 99% benzene/1% CS2.
3.3 Sample Preparation.
3.3.1 The front and back sections of each sample are transferred to separate 2- mL vials.
3.3.2 Each sample is desorbed with 1.0 mL of desorbing reagent.
3.3.3 The vials are sealed immediately and allowed to desorb for one hour with occasional shaking.
3.3.4 Desorbing reagent is drawn off the charcoal with a disposable pipet and put into clean 2-mL vials.
3.3.5 One drop of HBr is added to each vial. Vials are resealed and HBr is mixed well with the desorbing reagent.
3.3.6 About 0.15 gram of sodium carbonate is carefully added to each vial. Vials are again resealed and mixed well.
3.4 Standard Preparation.
3.4.1 Standards are prepared by injecting the pure ethylene oxide gas into the desorbing reagent.
3.4.2 A range of standards are prepared to make a calibration curve. A concentration of 1.0 m L of ethylene oxide gas per 1 mL desorbing reagent is equivalent to 1.0 ppm air concentration (all gas volumes at 25 <> C and 760 mm) for the recommended 1-liter air sample. This amount is uncorrected for desorption efficiency.
3.4.3 One drop of HBr per mL of standard is added and mixed well. 3.4.4 About 0.15 grams of sodium carbonate is carefully added for each drop of HBr (a small reaction will occur).
3.5 Analysis.
3.5.1 GC Conditions. Nitrogen flow rate -10mL/min. Injector Temperature -250 << degrees>> C Detector Temperature -300 <> C Column Temperature -100 << degrees>> C Injection size -0.8 m L Elution time -3.9 minutes
3.5.2 Peak areas are measured by an integrator or other suitable means.
3.5.3 The integrator results are in area units and a calibration curve is set up with concentration vs. area units.
3.6 Interferences.
3.6.1 Any compound having the same retention time of 2-bromoethanol is a potential interference. Possible interferences should be listed on the sample data sheets.
3.6.2 GC parameters may be changed to circumvent interferences.
3.6.3 There are usually trace contaminants in benzene. These contaminants, however, posed no problem of interference.
3.6.4 Retention time data on a single column is not considered proof of chemical identity. Samples over the 1.0 ppm target level should be confirmed by GC/Mass Spec or other suitable means.
3.7 Calculations.
3.7.1 The concentration in g/mL for a sample is determined by comparing the area of a particular sample to the calibration curve, which has been prepared from analytical standards.
3.7.2 The amount of analyte in each sample is corrected for desorption efficiency by use of a desorption curve.
3.7.3 Analytical results (A) from the two tubes that compose a particular air sample are added together.
3.7.4 The concentration for a sample s calculated by the following equation:
EtO, mg/m 3 = (A x B) / C

where:
A = mg/mL
B = desorption volume in milliliters
C = air volume in liters.
3.7.5 To convert mg/m 3 to parts per million (ppm) the following relationship is used:
EtO, ppm = (mg/m 3 x 24.45) / 44.05

where:
mg/m 3 = results from 3.7.4
24.45 = molar volume at 25 <>C and 760 mm Hg
44.05 = molecular weight of EtO.
3.8 Safety Precautions
3.8.1 Ethylene oxide and benzene are potential carcinogens and care must be exercised when working with these compounds.
3.8.2 All work done with the solvents (preparation of standards, desorption of samples, etc.) should be done in a hood.
3.8.3 Avoid any skin contact with all of the solvents.
3.8.4 Wear safety glasses at all times.
3.8.5 Avoid skin contact with HBr because it is highly toxic and a strong irritant to eyes and skin.


Note: Authority cited: Sections 142.3, 9020, 9030 and 9040, Labor Code. Reference: Sections 142.3, 9004(d), 9009, 9020, 9030 and 9040, Labor Code.







s 5221. Fumigation: General.
(a) Wherever a poisonous gas or a substance giving rise to a poisonous gas is used for fumigation, at least two people shall be present at all times, and each person shall be provided with respiratory equipment approved as protection against the gas being used.
(b) All persons working with fumigants or near fumigation operations shall be instructed in the hazards of the substances employed.
(c) Where poisonous gas or substance giving rise to poisonous gas is used for fumigation, the division may require an employer to provide an approved antidote or first-aid treatment where lack of such facilities might constitute a hazard.







s 5222. Fumigation in Vaults and Chambers.
(a) Vaults and chambers used for fumigation of food products, textiles or other objects shall be so constructed that employees will not be exposed to hazardous concentrations of fumigants during fumigation.
(b) A suitable warning notice with the words, "Danger," "Do Not Open," "Poison Gas," or equivalent shall be attached to the door of such rooms or vaults.
(c) After the exposure is completed, vaults or chambers shall be purged of fumigant and the air therein shall be tested. Employees shall not be allowed to enter a vault or chamber, except to make tests, until the concentration of fumigant in the air is known to be safe. Employees making tests shall wear respiratory protection approved for use in the fumigant used.
(d) Purging shall be carried out in such a way as not to endanger employees.
(e) If a flammable gas, or substance giving rise to a flammable gas is used for fumigation, all sources of ignition shall be removed or extinguished before fumigation is begun, and no source of ignition shall be allowed in a vault or chamber which has been fumigated while the concentration of flammable gas is over 20 percent of the lower explosive limit.







s 5223. Fumigation in Buildings or Rooms Other Than Fumigation Vaults or Chambers.
(a) Whenever any building or section thereof, other than fumigation vaults or chambers, are fumigated with a poisonous gas:
(1) All cracks, holes, crevices, openings, and apertures in walls, floors, and ceilings shall be sealed so as to confine the gas to the rooms being fumigated.

(2) Doors and windows shall be closed and sealed; and legible warning signs shall be posted at all entrances or approaches. Signs shall state premises under fumigation and type of gas used and shall not be removed till fumigation and ventilation are complete.
(3) Employees releasing poisonous gases for fumigation shall wear respiratory protection of a type approved for use in the gas used.
(4) Fumigation of single rooms is forbidden unless such room constitutes a wing, floor, or other detached or semi-detached section of a building, or can be effectively sealed off from the remainder of the building.
(5) When a part of a building is to be fumigated, all adjoining rooms, including those above and below, and all other parts of the building or of adjacent buildings into which the gas may penetrate shall be vacated. Windows in such locations shall be open during fumigation.
(6) After the exposure is completed, premises shall be purged of fumigant and the air therein shall be tested. Employees shall not be allowed to enter the premises, except to make tests, until the concentration of fumigant is known to be safe. Employees making tests shall wear respiratory protection approved for use in the fumigant used.
(7) Purging or ventilation shall be carried out in such a manner as not to endanger employees.
(8) Where flammable fumigants are used, no source of ignition shall be allowed in premises being fumigated. When part of a building is being fumigated, no source of ignition shall be allowed in the rooms being fumigated or in adjoining rooms including those above and below, or in adjacent buildings into which gas may reasonably be expected to penetrate.







s 5225. Application of These Orders.








s 5226. Definitions.








s 5227. Labeling.








s 5228. Labels.








s 5229. Protection.








s 5230. Samples.








s 5236. Purpose.
(a) Group 18 establishes minimum standards for the manufacture, assembly, possession, storage, transportation, repacking and distribution, and use of explosive materials at places of employment.
(b) This group shall not apply to:
(1) The public display of fireworks as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 12524 and under the jurisdiction of the State Fire Marshal under Title 19.
(2) Explosive materials while in the course of transportation under the jurisdiction of the US Department of Transportation (USDOT), the permit provisions of the Health and Safety Code or the California Vehicle Code (CVC) as enforced by the California Highway Patrol.
(3) Pyrotechnic devices, fireworks and special effects which are regulated by the State Fire Marshal under provisions of Part 2, Division 11 (commencing with Section 12500) of the Health and Safety Code.
(4) The use of explosive materials in medicines and medicinal agents in the forms prescribed by the United States Pharmacopeia, or the National Formulary.
(5) Operations governed by the provisions of Group 18 under contract with federal government agencies requiring compliance with:
(A) DOD Contractors' Safety Manual(s),
(B) DOD explosive safety requirements and surveillance, and

(C) Where the Department of the Army/DOD conducts site inspections to ensure compliance.
(c) Whenever the term "explosive materials" is used in this group it shall be construed as including blasting agents unless specifically exempted in a safety order.


Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3 Labor Code.







s 5237. Definitions.
"Air Loader." A device for inserting explosive materials into a bore hole or other cavity, using compressed air as the propulsive force.
"Air Supply Lines." Pipe, hose or combination of pipe and hose, that supplies compressed air to the air loader.
"ANFO." An explosive material consisting of ammonium nitrate and fuel oil.
"ATF." Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, United States Department of Treasury.
"Barricade -Artificial." An artificial mound or revetted wall of earth of a minimum thickness of 3 feet at the top of the mound or acceptable equivalent.
"Barricade -Natural." Natural features of the terrain such as hills, or timber of sufficient density that the surrounding exposures which require protection cannot be seen from the magazine when the trees are bare of leaves.
"Barricaded." A building or structure containing explosives effectively screened from another magazine, inhabited building, railway, highway or work area either by a natural or by an artificial barricade of such height that a straight line from the top of any sidewall of the building, or structure, containing explosives to the eave line of any other magazine, inhabited building or a point 12 feet about the center of a railway, highway, or outside work area will pass through such intervening natural or artificial barricade.
"Binary Components." The combination of two non-explosive materials to form an explosive material.
"Blast Area." The area of a blast within the influence of flying fragments, gases, and concussion.
"Blast Site." The area where explosive materials are handled during loading, including the perimeter of blast holes and 50 feet in all directions from loaded holes or holes to be loaded.
"Blaster, Licensed." Any competent person designated to supervise blasting operations and in possession of a current blasters license issued by the Division.
"Blasting Accessories." Equipment used when loading and firing explosives. It does not include explosive materials.
"Blasting Agents." Any material or mixture consisting of a fuel and oxidizer, intended for blasting and not otherwise classified as an explosive, provided that the finished product, as mixed and packaged for shipment, cannot be detonated by means of a No. 8. test blasting cap when unconfined.
"Blasting Cap." See "Detonator."
"Blasting Circuit." A circuit used to initiate explosive materials.
"Blasting Machine." An electrical device designed to fire electric detonators.
"Blasting Mat." A heavy mat of woven rope, steel wire, or chain, or improvised from timber, logs, brush, or other materials placed over loaded holes to minimize the amount of rock and other debris that might be thrown into the air.
"Blasting Operation." Includes, but is not limited to use, on-site transportation and storage of commercial explosives, blasting agents, and other materials used in blasting.
"Blasting Shelter." A shelter for the protection of employees while blasting.
"Bullet Resistant." Magazine walls or doors of construction resistant to penetration of a bullet of 150-grain M2 ball ammunition having a nominal muzzle velocity of 2700 feet per second fired from a .30 caliber rifle from a distance of 100 feet perpendicular to the wall or door.
"Bus Wires." Wires in the blasting circuit to which the leg wires of electric blasting caps are attached for parallel electric blasting.
"Cap Crimper." A tool specially designed to securely crimp the metallic shell of a fuse detonator or igniter cord connector to a section of inserted safety fuse.
"Capped Fuse." A length of safety fuse to which a blasting cap has been attached.
"Car." Wheeled conveyance for use on rails, whether hand trammed or included in a train.
"Competent Person." One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them.
"Connecting Wires." Wires used to extend the leading (firing) line or leg wires in an electric blasting circuit.
"Coyote Hole." An underground tunnel-like chamber into which explosives are placed for primary blasting.
"Deflagration." A rapid chemical reaction in which the output of heat is sufficient to enable the reaction to proceed and be accelerated without input of heat from another source. Deflagration is a surface phenomenon with the reaction products flowing away from the unreacted material along the surface at subsonic velocity. The effect of a true deflagration under confinement is an explosion. Confinement of the reaction increases pressure, temperature, and rate of reaction, and may cause transition into a detonation.
"Detonating Cord." A flexible cord containing a center core of high explosives.
"Detonation." An explosive reaction that moves through an explosive material at a velocity greater than the speed of sound in the material.
"Detonator." Any device containing an initiating or primary explosive that is used for initiating detonation in another explosive material. Detonators were formerly called blasting caps and include:
(A) Fuse caps or ordinary blasting caps which are initiated by safety fuse.
(B) Electric blasting caps which are initiated by means of an electric current.
(C) Electric delay blasting caps are electric detonators which introduce a predetermined lapse of time between the application of electric current and the detonation of the base charge in the detonator.
(D) Shock tube, gas initiation, or miniaturized detonating cord blasting caps are detonators that are designed to be initiated by the signal, flame or detonation impulse from shock tube, gas filled tubes, or miniaturized detonating cord. Like electric blasting caps, they may incorporate a delay element to produce a predetermined lapse of time between receipt of the energy signal and the firing of the base charge in the detonator.
"DOD." U. S. Department of Defense.
"Electric Blasting Cap." See "Detonator".
"Electric Delay Blasting Caps." See "Detonator".
"Nonelectric Delay Blasting Cap." See "Detonator".
"Emulsion." An explosive material containing proportional amounts of an oxidizer dissolved in water droplets surrounded by immiscible fuel or droplets of an immiscible fuel surrounded by water containing substantial amounts of oxidizer.
"Explosive Materials." The term includes, but is not limited to, dynamite and other high explosives; slurries, emulsions, and water gels; black powder and pellet powder; initiating explosives; detonators; blasting caps; safety fuse; squibs; detonating cord; igniter; igniter cord; pyrotechnic devices; blasting agents; and propellants.
(A) "Explosives, Chlorates." Explosive materials that contain over one percent (1%) chlorate by weight, in the total mix.
(B) "Explosives, Perchlorates." Explosive materials that contain over one percent (1%) perchlorates by weight, in the total mix.
"Explosives." Any chemical compound, mixture or device, the primary or common purpose of which is to function by explosion.
(A) "Classes."
(1) High explosives. Explosive materials which can be caused to detonate by means of an initiator test detonator when unconfined (for example, dynamite, flash powders, and bulk salutes).
(2) Low explosives. Explosive materials which can be caused to deflagrate when confined (for example, black powder, safety fuses, igniters, igniter cords, fuse lighters, and "special fireworks.")

(3) Blasting Agent. Any material or mixture, consisting of fuel and oxidizer which cannot be detonated by means of a No. 8 testing blasting cap when unconfined.
(B) Division. (For transportation purposes only.)
(1) Division 1.1 - Explosives that have a mass explosion hazard.
(2) Division 1.2 - Explosives that have a projection hazard, but not a mass explosion hazard.
(3) Division 1.3 - Explosives that have a fire hazard and (1) a minor blast hazard or (2) a minor projection hazard, or both, but not a mass explosion hazard.
(4) Division 1.4 - Explosive devices that present a minor explosion hazard.
(5) Division 1.5 - Very insensitive explosives which have a mass explosion hazard but are so insensitive that there is little probability of initiation. (Blasting Agents - ANFO, non cap-sensitive emulsions and water-gels, and packaged ANFO products.)

(6) Division 1.6 - Extremely insensitive articles which do not have a mass explosion hazard. (There currently are no commercial explosive products that fit this classification.)
"Explosives-Actuated Power Devices." Any tool or special mechanical device which is actuated by explosives, but not to include propellant actuated power devices. Examples of explosive actuated devices are jet perforators, shaped charges and similar devices.
"Face or Bank." The sides from the bottom or floor of a pit to the surface surrounding the pit. Where one or more benches or levels are used in a pit, each bench or level has a separate face.
"Face - Underground." That part of any adit, tunnel, stope, or raise where excavating is progressing, or was last done.
"Fireworks." (Also see "pyrotechnic devices.") Any device containing chemical elements and chemical compounds capable of burning independently of the oxygen of the atmosphere and producing audible, visual, mechanical, or thermal effects which are useful as pyrotechnic devices or for entertainment. The term "fireworks" includes, but is not limited to, devices designated by the manufacturer as fireworks, torpedoes, skyrockets, roman candles, rockets, Daygo bombs, sparklers, party poppers, paper caps, chasers, fountains, smoke spards, aerial bombs, and fireworks kits.
"Forbidden or not Acceptable Explosives." Explosives which are forbidden or not acceptable for transportation by common, contract or private carriers by rail freight, rail express, highway or water in accordance with the regulations of the U.S. Department of Transportation, 49 CFR Chapter I. Note:Certain chemicals and certain fuel materials may have explosive characteristics but are not within the coverage of 18 U.S.C., Chapter 40 and are not specifically classified as explosives by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Authoritative information should be obtained for such materials and action commensurate with their hazards, location, isolation and safeguards, should be taken.
"Fume Classification." As defined by the Institute of Makers of Explosives, Publication No. 12, "A classification indicating the amount of carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide produced by an explosive or blasting agent. Explosives with positive oxygen balances are not considered as being acceptable in these classifications."

"Fuse, Safety." A flexible cord containing an internal burning composition by which fire is conveyed at a continuous uniform rate.
"Highway." Any street, alley, or road, publicly or privately maintained and open to use of the public for purposes of vehicular travel.
"Igniter Cord." A small-diameter pyrotechnic cord that burns at a uniform rate with an external flame and used to ignite a series of safety fuses.
"IME." Institute of Makers of Explosives.
"Industrial Explosive Devices." Explosive-actuated-power devices and propellant-actuated-power devices.
"Industrial Explosive Material." Shaped materials and sheet forms and various other extrusions, pellets, and packages of high explosive which include dynamites, trinitrotoluene (TNT); pentaerythritoltetranitrate (PETN); and other similar compounds used for high energy rate forming, expanding, and shaping in metal fabrication and for disassembly and quick reduction to scrap metal.

"Inhabited Building." A building regularly occupied in whole or part as a habitation for human beings, or any church, schoolhouse, railroad station, store, or other structure where people are accustomed to assemble, except any building or structure occupied in connection with the manufacture, transportation, storage or use of explosive materials.
"Intraline Distance." The minimum distance permitted between any two buildings within one operating line. Intraline distances are also used for separating certain specified areas, buildings, and locations even though actual line operations are not involved. Intraline distance separation is expected to protect explosive materials in buildings from propagation detonation due to blast effects, but not against the possibility of propagation detonation due to fragments. Buildings separated by intraline distances will probably suffer substantial structural damage.
"Intraline Operations." Those operations accomplished within one operating line.
"Leading Wires." The wire(s) connecting the electrical power source to the blasting circuit.

"Loading Hose." The hose through which an explosive or blasting agent is blown or forced.
"Loading Line." The loading hose, loading tube and all fittings and connections from the loader to the discharge end of the loading tube.
"Loading Tube." The rigid or semi-rigid static dissipating tube in the loading line.
"Magazine." Any building or structure, other than an explosive manufacturing building, used for storage of explosive materials.
(A) Type 1 Magazines. Permanent magazines for storage of high explosive materials. Other classes of explosive materials may also be stored in Type 1 magazines.
(B) Type 2 Magazines. Mobile and portable indoor and outdoor magazines for the storage of high explosive materials. Other classes of explosive materials may also be stored in Type 2 magazines.
(C) Type 3 Magazines. Portable outdoor magazines for the temporary storage of high explosive materials while attended (for example, a "day box"). Other classes of explosive materials may also be stored in Type 3 magazines.
(D) Type 4 Magazines. Magazines for the storage of low explosive materials. Blasting agents may be stored in Type 4 magazines. Detonators that will not mass detonate may also be stored in Type 4 magazines.
(E) Type 5 Magazines. Magazines for the storage of blasting agents.
"Misfire." An explosive charge which partly or completely failed to explode as planned.
"Missed Hole." An explosive loaded hole or any portion thereof containing an explosive charge that failed to explode.
"Motor Vehicle." Any self-propelled vehicle, truck, tractor, semitrailer, or trailer used for the transportation of freight over public highways.
"Mudcapping." Blasting by placing a quantity of explosives with detonator on or against the object to be blasted. This is also known as bulldozing, adobying, or plaster shooting.

"NFPA." National Fire Protection Association.
"Operating Building." A building in which any processing of explosive materials is conducted.
"Operating Line." A group of separated operating buildings of specific arrangement, used in the assembly, modification, reconditioning, renovation, maintenance, inspection, surveillance, testing or manufacturing of explosives.
"Operating Line Separation." The required safe distance separating two or more operating lines.
"Permanent Blasting (Leading) Wires." Those wires between the firing switch and auxiliary switch, including sections between auxiliary switches, for use in blasting where the power source is an electric circuit.
"Permissible." A machine, material, apparatus, or device which has been investigated, tested, and approved by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, and is maintained in accordance with the requirements of the approving agency.

"Pneumatic Loading." Loading of explosive materials by means of compressed air.
"Prills." Spherical pellets.
"Primary Blasting." Blasting used to fragment and displace material from its original position to facilitate subsequent handling and crushing.
"Primer." A cartridge or container of explosives into which a detonator is inserted or attached to the main charge.
"Processing." A series of actions or operations involved in the manufacturing of explosive materials, including the manufacture of explosives, the assembly, loading, disassembly, modification, reconditioning, renovation, maintenance, inspection, surveillance, shipping, receiving, or testing of explosive materials and the packaging and repackaging of explosive materials for wholesale distribution.
"Propagation (Sympathetic Detonation)." The detonation of explosive charges by an impulse received from adjacent or nearby explosive charges.

"Propellant (Solid)." Explosives compositions used for propelling projectiles and rockets and to generate gases for powering auxiliary devices.
"Propellant-Actuated Power Devices." Any tool or special mechanical device or gas generator system which is actuated by a propellant, or which releases and directs work through propellant charge.
"Pyrotechnic Devices." Any combination of materials, including pyrotechnic compositions, which, by the agency of fire, produce an audible, visual, mechanical or thermal effect designed and intended to be useful for industrial, agricultural, personal safety, or educational purposes. The term "pyrotechnic device" includes, but is not limited to, agricultural and wildlife fireworks, model rockets, exempt fireworks, emergency signaling devices, and special effects.
"Remote Operation." Where operating personnel are protected by substantial walls designed to safely withstand the anticipated overpressure should a incident occur.
"Safety (Blast) Shield." A barrier constructed at a particular location, or around a particular operation to protect personnel, material or equipment from the effects of a possible fire or explosion.
"Safety Fuse." See "Fuse, Safety."
"Secondary Blasting." Blasting to reduce the size of boulders resulting from a primary blast.
"Sensitizer." Any additive, active or inert, which added to a chemical compound or mixture causes that compound or mixture to become more sensitive to initiation.
"Slurry Explosives." An explosive material containing substantial portions of a liquid, oxidizers, and fuel, plus a thickener.
"Small Arms Ammunition." Ammunition of .75 caliber or less, when designated as an explosive by USDOT.
"Small Arms Ammunition Primer." Small percussion sensitive explosive charges encased in cup used for ignition of propellant powder.

"Special Effects." Articles containing any pyrotechnic composition manufactured and assembled, designed, or discharged in connection with television, theater, or motion picture productions, which may or may not be presented before live audiences and any other articles containing any pyrotechnic composition used for commercial, industrial, education, recreation, or entertainment purposeswhen authorized by the authority having jurisdiction. (continued)