• If I need to wear a respirator, what kind should it be?
• What eye/face protection is recommended for working with titanium dioxide?
• What skin protection measures are recommended when working with titanium dioxide?
• What types of materials should my protective clothing be made of?
• Is there anything else I need to do to reduce my exposure?

If I need to wear a respirator, what kind should it be?

If engineering controls and work practices are not effective in controlling exposure to this material, then wear suitable personal protective equipment including approved respiratory protection. Have appropriate equipment available for use in emergencies such as spills or fire.

If respiratory protection is required, institute a complete respiratory protection program including selection, fit testing, training, maintenance and inspection. Refer to the CSA Standard Z94.4-02, "Selection, Use, and Care of Respirators," available from the Canadian Standards Association.

RESPIRATORY PROTECTION GUIDELINES:

NIOSH RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TITANIUM DIOXIDE CONCENTRATIONS IN AIR (3):

AT ANY DETECTABLE CONCENTRATION: Positive pressure, full-facepiece SCBA; or positive pressure, full-facepiece SAR with an auxiliary positive pressure SCBA.

ESCAPE: Full-facepiece, air-purifying respirator with an N100, R100, or P100 filter; or escape-type SCBA.

NOTE: NIOSH has classified this material as a potential occupational carcinogen, according to specific NIOSH criteria. This classification is reflected in these recommendations for respiratory protection, which specify that only the most reliable and protective respirators be worn at any detectable concentration. NIOSH has changed their policy on respiratory protection for possible carcinogens but not yet revised these recommendations for respiratory protection. The requirements in Canadian jurisdictions may vary.

Recommendations apply only to NIOSH approved respirators.

The respirator use limitations specified by the approving agency and the manufacturer must be observed.

Air-purifying respirators do not protect against oxygen-deficient atmospheres.

ABBREVIATIONS: SAR = supplied-air respirator; SCBA = self-contained breathing apparatus. IDLH = Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health.

What eye/face protection is recommended for working with titanium dioxide?

Chemical safety goggles.

What skin protection measures are recommended when working with titanium dioxide?

Coveralls or long sleeves and pants to prevent accumulation of dust on skin.

What types of materials should my protective clothing be made of?

No specific guidelines are available. Contact chemical manufacturer/supplier for advice. Most materials commonly used in protective clothing are probably adequate. Physical strength of the material is probably the main requirement.

Is there anything else I need to do to reduce my exposure?

Contaminated clothing should not be taken home. Launder before rewearing. Inform laundry personnel of contaminant's hazards.

It is good practice to not eat, drink or smoke in work areas.

Wash hands after handling this material. Maintain good housekeeping.

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Document last updated on March 9, 2007

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