Document np2k7qNJwNEJZXdgYy8GymVE1

TO: Bill Carradine FROM: DATE: Interoffice Communication SUBJ: T. G. Grumbles September 27, 1988 ALUMINA XV WARNING LETTERS Attached are final versions of the letters to be used with distribution of XV samples. As discussed we should send the appropriate letter, a revised MSDS, and revised sample labels to all companies that have received XW samples. The other letter is to be used with all future sample shipments. Please advise me as to when you send the letters to current sample holders. cr*------------ T. G. Grumbles dlj cc: R. Tuttle, G. Hoenes, W. L. McClain, R. Poe, J. Fenton cc w/o attachments: D. Andersen, J. A. Hall VVV 000008272 FINAL DRAFT 9/26/88 ALL FUTURE SAMPLE SHIPMENTS Dear VISTA Chemical is providing a sample of Catapal XW Alumina as requested. It is important that you review and understand the health hazard and handling information on the Material Safety Data Sheet attached to this letter. We strongly urge you to provide this information to those handling the product. There is a growing body of scientific evidence indicating that man made mineral materials that are classed as nuiscance dusts in non filter particulate form, are likely to pose serious pulmonary health hazards when in a fiber or whisker form. These effects may range from inflamation to progressive lung disease such as fibrosis and lung tumors. We are currently evaluating Catapal XW Alumina to determine if this product may exhibit the health hazards seen in similar man-made mineral fibers. At this time, VISTA is recommending handling procedures to reduce exposures to the product as low as fesible. We will keep you informed on new information as it is developed. Sincerely, Thomas G. Grumbles, C.I.H. Environmental Quality Manager vw 000008273 FINAL DRAFT 9/26/88 CURRENT SAMPLE HOLDERS Dear This letter is to inform you of an important revision in the information regarding the potential health hazards of VISTA'S CATAPAL XW Alumina. Significant changes are being made in the Product Material Safety Data Sheet and sample labels. As you are aware, this is a developmental product for VISTA. A key part of the developmental process is to review the safety and health aspects of the product. Based on information gained recently by VISTA, it is necessary to revise our hazard assessment of the product. It has become apparent that certain man-made mineral materials, such as alumina, which are classed as a nuisance dust in non-fiber particulate form, are likely to pose a more serious pulmonary health hazard when produced in a fiber or fine whisker form. The health effects encountered with materials similar to alumina whiskers range from inflammation of lung tissues to fibrosis and tumor formation. While it is not clear that Catapal XW Alumina has the potential for these health effects, or what the magnitude of these effects would be, it is prudent to handle the product in a manner that reduces exposures to the greatest extent possible until the actual hazards, if any, are fully determined. Revisions made in the product warning VVV 000008274 literature reflect this recommended approach. Please carefully review the revised MSDS and contact us if you need further clarification as to the changes or the reasons for these changes. We have enclosed several revised labels for your use. Please affix these on any existing product samples you have in your possession. If you need more labels please contact us. VISTA is continuing to evaluate the product and will keep you informed of results concerning the health hazards and handling practices of this product. VVV 000008275