Dear editor:
I am writing because the story about the Business owner sips sealant may lead other people to try a similar demonstration without the technical knowledge about the product being tried that could have grave consequences.
A material safety data sheet provides basic information on a material or chemical product. It contains information on the properties and potential hazards of the material, how to use and dispose of it safely, and what to do if there is an emergency.
MSDSs also have many limitations, such as manufacturers are given a special dispensation not to name all the components because of trade secrets, hazards of mixtures may be unknown, and more.
Because of these limitations, those that offer the product for sale are required to list a 24-hour contact number so people in need can get the best information for the situation.
My intention is not to give a course but to make people aware of the limitations in MSDS.
Those who want to get deeper into the subject are encouraged to access the website of the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety where the legislation that created the system, definitions and more are covered.
There can be hidden hazards that are never found in an MSDS. Even though an MSDS says the product is not hazardous, not flammable, etc., there may be a hidden hazard unknown to all except those who are immersed in the field.
Please remember this and get the best information before making personal safety decisions. Consequences are often irreversible!
The article also mentions the district bylaw.
The reason for this bylaw is to protect those species in the receiving environment.
These species are much more sensitive than us humans.
We all have seen pictures of dead fish as a result of pollution.
There is also another principle we must consider and that can be illustrated by what happens to a camel when straw is piled up one at a time; eventually we get to the last straw that broke the camel’s back.
Pollution is cumulative. We should obey the law and should encourage others to do the same.
We all share the environment. It would be sad if we lost it.
John Consiglio
North Vancouver
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