EPS contains residual amounts of Pentane (<1%wt), Styrene Monomer and Hydrogen Bromide (FRA Grades only). When forming, cutting or shaping EPS care must be taken to avoid ignition by burning or hot-wire cutting methods.
During hot-wire cutting, adequate ventilation must be provided to prevent respiratory tract and eye irritation which may be caused by any fumes which may be generated. Where considerable dust is generated by band sawing or grinding, suitable dust extraction must be provided to ensure exposure does not exceed 10mgs/m3/8 hours TWA (occupational exposure limit for total inhalation of dust).
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS SHOULD BE IMMEDIATELY AND READILY ACCESSIBLE.Forming and shaping of EPS must be undertaken away, and at a safe distance from, the main stockpile to minimise any risk of fire or flame spread. When cutting EPS with automatic saws or knives, static electricity may be generated which could create sparks. Such equipment, therefore, must be correctly earthed.
When subjected to a constant heat of 230o C and above, EPS emits inflammable vapours which will easily and quickly ignite. Melting point 200o C and ignition temperature in air 350o C.
Extreme caution must be exercised when storing, shaping and applying EPS to ensure total protection from flame and/or fire.
DO NOT SMOKE OR ALLOW NAKED FLAMES WHERE EPS IS STORED.
EPS must not be stored near and must be protected from, other inflammable materials such as paints or petroleum products.-
CO2, Dry powder or BCF fire extinguishers, hose reels, sand and other types of flame and/or fire extinguishing equipment must be readily available and easily retrievable where EPS is stored and/or shaped.
IF IT IS NECESSARY TO SUMMON ASSISTANCE, ADVISE THE FIRE SERVICE THAT EXPANDED POLYSTYRENE IS INVOLVED.
Evacuate the area of all personnel except those fighting the fire.
When subjected to fire, EPS produces carbon monoxide which is potentially toxic, though the amount is far less than that given off by wood. Hydrogen Bromide will also be released from grades which contain Fire Retardant Additives (FRA).
EPS products are non-toxic but are not biodegradable and small particles may have physical effects on aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Scrap polystyrene may be disposed of at suitable land fill sites or by incineration under approved conditions. The Local Authority Waste Disposal Officer should be contacted for advice on the correct method to be used.
Unofficial dumping or incineration of polystyrene waste is not recommended.
