In Appendix D of the Chemical Safety and Disposal Guide, MINERAL OIL is listed as a carcinogen. Is this a mistake?
It should read, “unrefined mineral oil.” The National Toxicology Program’s 1994 Annual Report on Carcinogens summarizes toxicological and epidemiological studies that have long shown some soot extracts, coal tars and unrefined mineral oils to be carcinogenic. Most mineral oils used in laboratories are refined, and the Report notes that “There is inadequate evidence for the carcinogenicity of soots and highly refined mineral oils in experimental animals.” Further, mineral oil has very low volatility at room temperature. Studies indicate that you are only at risk if you have skin contact with unrefined mineral oils, which is rare in a laboratory situation. Top Q: We have a cartridge mask (RESPIRATOR) in our spill kit, and occasionally we use a dust mask for weighing out acrylamide. But Part D (p. 11D) and Appendix B (p. 6ApxB) of the Guide discourage respirator use. Should I throw them away? A: Cartridge masks, dust masks and air tanks (SCBA packs) are all types of respirators. To make s
