Linseed-oil spontaneous-combustion warnings

February 28, 1996

Mr. Richard F. Andree, CSP, PE, Ph.D.
[Recipient address omitted]
Dear Dr. Andree:

Thank you for your letter of December 18, 1995, addressed to the Assistant Secretary of Labor, referring to the Hazard Communications Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200). Your letter was forwarded to the Directorate of Technical Support (DTS), Office of Science and Technology Assessment (OSTA) for response. I apologize for the delay in the response, caused by a heavier than normal workload after the Federal Government shutdown.

I will attempt to answer each question in the order they were presented:

Is it required to have the hazard of autoignition / spontaneous combustion identified on the label of products containing Linseed Oil?

According to 29 CFR 1910.1200(f)(1)(i) thru (iii), labels and other forms of warning: the chemical manufacturer, importer, or distributor shall ensure that each container of hazardous chemicals leaving the workplace is labeled, tagged or marked with certain information. In the case of linseed oil and products containing linseed oil, the hazard of autoignition / spontaneous combustion should be included in this information.

Is it required to document in the MSDS of products containing Linseed Oil that the hazard of autoignition / spontaneous combustion exists?

According to 29 CFR 1910.1200(g) Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), it is required that ingredients of all chemicals which have been determined to present a physical hazard when present in the mixture be documented. The MSDS should also contain physical and chemical characteristics of the hazardous chemicals. It must list the physical hazards of the hazardous chemical including potential for fire, explosion, and reactibility.

Is it required to document in the MSDS of products containing Linseed Oil appropriate safety instructions for the disposal of material contamination with Linseed Oil?

According to 29 CFR 1910.1200(g), any generally applicable precautions for safe handling and use, which are known to the chemical manufacturer, importer or employer preparing the MSDS should be documented. Documentation should also include appropriate hygienic practices, protective measures during repair and maintenance of contaminated equipment, and procedures for clean-up of spills and leaks. Other documentation calls for the listing of control measures known to the manufacturer such as engineering, work practices, or the use of personal protective equipment.

A copy of the standards cited in this letter is enclosed. We hope that the above information is of assistance to you. If we may be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Mac Arthur Cheeks of OSTA at (202) 219-7056 or write again.

Sincerely,
Stephen Mallinger
Acting Director
Directorate of Technical Support