Document LK2bDJY9MXqRj5j33b9dVebY3

TO: Ben Decker XF: FROM: DATE: Interoffice Communication SUBJ: T. G. Grumbles August 8, 1986 OWENS-ILLINOIS ALUMINA HEALTH CLAIMS VISTA O-I is correct in informing their customers that an alumina based product does not have the health hazard potential of a silica based product. However, I share your concern if 0-1 is indicating, by implication or actual verbage, that no further hazard exists. Nuisance dusts in the respirable range still present an inhalation hazard. The effect, or "disease" potential is different. Nuisance particulates create simple obstructive lung problems versus actual fibrogenic disease as is caused by certain silicas. Both should be avoided. We would recommend appropriate protective measures be taken, i.e. ventilation and respiratory protection, to prevent excessive exposures to the alumina. We don't have specific data on Alumina particles in the nanometer range. I would suggest we share our concern with 0-1 to assure they aren't representing the new alumina based product as hazard free. Let me know if you want help with the correspondence. ajo/9 cc OCK, MMV VVV 000000815