Poisoning from fumes from polystyrene fire. Textile workers processing, among others, polyester and nylon fibers, experienced coughing, breathlessness, and reduced lung capacity , suggesting a link between microplastic inhalation and the health problems seen in these workers. Skin Contact Wash off immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. If inhalation of microplastics is sufficiently high, these plastic particles may cause similar health problems. Inhalation of styrene vapour is the most common route of occupational exposure [1-3]. Description of Symptoms/Effects (both acute and delayed) & Symptoms of Overexposure: Inhalation: Exposure to airborne concentrations above statutory or recommended exposure limits may cause irritation of the nose, throat and lungs. Acute (short-term) exposure to styrene in humans results in mucous membrane and eye irritation, and gastrointestinal effects. Passage is somewhat dependent on the food’s fat content -- the higher the fat, the more styrene escapes. There is a chance for the piece to become stuck in the esophagus and cause mild discomfort with swallowing. Published 1 July 2014 Last updated 16 … Max Because polystyrene products are so common, many people assume they are safe, and that a government agency, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), would not allow a health- threatening product to be marketed to the public. It determined that Styrofoam drinking cups leach Styrofoam into the liquids they contain. These documents provide information on the health effects of exposure, the chemical’s toxicity and material for responding to a chemical incident. Styrofoam Consumption. Exposure Guidelines Exposure Limits PEL(OSHA) : Particulates (Not Otherwise Classified) 15 mg/m3, 8 Hr. TWA, total dust 5 mg/m3, 8 Hr. Health Effects. TWA, respirable dust TLV ACGIH): None Established Other Applicable Exposure Limits STYRENE PEL (OSHA): 100 ppm, 8 Hr. Public Contamination. If a large piece of styrofoam is ingested, it can cause gagging and choking. Acute exposure to styrene by inhalation can give rise to irritation of the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, increased nasal secretion, wheezing and coughing. Adverse symptoms may … TWA 200 ppm, Ceiling 600 ppm - 5 Min. Studies evaluating inhalation exposure have demonstrated that styrene is a strong irritant [1, 2].Eye, nose and throat irritation is common at exposure levels above 50 to 100 ppm but can also occur at levels of about 20 to 30 ppm [].At very high levels chronic bronchitis type symptoms and other respiratory symptoms appear. Get medical attention immediately if symptoms occur. BMJ 283: 1610-1611. Get medical attention. Polystyrene Dishes. First-aid measures Eye Contact Rinse immediately with plenty of water, also under the eyelids, for at least 15 minutes. The 350 ng/g level is one-third of levels known to cause neurotoxic symptoms. Polystyrene latex microsphere, 1 micron, dryform Revision Date 14-Feb-2020 4. The cups apparently lose weight during the time they are at use. Styrofoam is a foam plastic that does not break down or get absorbed into the body when ingested. Styrene 100-42-5 Hazard Summary Styrene is primarily used in the production of polystyrene plastics and resins. The Dangers Of Polystyrene. Generally, exposure to polystyrene cups and containers won’t be enough to cause acute symptoms in consumers, but people who live near polystyrene container plants or who work in polystyrene factories can develop side effects from contact with the substance. When consuming something off a product made with polystyrene, styrene can leak into the food, especially when warmed in a microwave. 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