Look out, your sunscreen could contain harmful chemicals.
Avobenzone, Homosalate and Oxybenzone are used for their dermal penetration properties but may pose unknown risks. FDA safe, however, in some studies they have been shown to be harmful to aquatic life, in addition to causing rare hormone disruptions and allergies to the skin.
Makes me think of the Occupational Safety and Health 1910.120(q) Hazardous Material 24 Hour Hazmat Team Response Training. Physical activity on even a cool day in a fully encapsulated protective suit can bring on dehydration, disorientation, heat stroke and death, in addition to unforeseen circumstances and physical malfunctions to gloves, suits and respirators.
The most important aspect of the OSHA training was to understand that personal protective equipment may pose more of a danger than chemical hazards. Especially, taking into account that in many cases hazmat team responders will ultimately determine there was no health hazard present based on the material, exposure limits and its chemical hazards.
That is why first and foremost, the responsibility of hazmat Specialists in 1910.120(q)(6)(iv) is to support and protect their Technicians under 1910.120(q)(6)(iii). Ever ready to immediately suit up into a higher level of protection, as they would assume rescue team status in the event of emergencies.
The late John Sabatino, my instructor and good friend, would say “Anyone with a pulse can climb into a fully encapsulating suit, but he’s never seen anyone climb out without one”.
Some conscientious hard-core sun worshipers have gone the route of topical sunscreens containing Titanium Dioxide or non-nano Zinc oxide, a Department of Transportation (DOT) hazardous material which doesn't penetrate the skin, however may according to studies pose inhalation hazards.
There is one more option. My dad’s form of sunscreen, regardless of the season, activity or temperature was a cotton t-shirt, 100% polyester V-neck sweater, leather aviator jacket, battered Levi’s, a pair of Bausch and Lomb aviator sunglasses and one of my grandfather’s Eagles football caps.
Two more seminars this year, and I’m out for the summer, see you in October. Thank you!
Be Safe,
You’ve made it this far.
Robert J. Keegan
Publisher and President
Hazardous Materials Publishing Company
Transportation Skills Programs Inc.
hazmat.tsp@gmail.com
610-587-3978
