Respiratory Protection for Processing Beryllium-Containing Materials

Beryllium copper, in solid form and as finished parts, presents no particular health hazard. In addition, most manufacturing operations conducted properly on well-maintained equipment are capable of safely processing beryllium copper. Like many industrial materials, it poses a health risk only if mishandled. Breathing very fine particles may cause a serious lung condition in a small percentage of individuals. Risk from processes generating fine particulate can be minimised with simple, proven, and readily available engineering controls such as ventilation. Information on safe handling procedures and on the nature of the risk associated with beryllium inhalation is available from Instrument Specialties.

Local exhaust ventilation is the preferred control technology for worker protection when there is the possibility of exposure to fine dust or mist that contains beryllium-containing materials, including beryllium, beryllium alloys, and beryllium oxide. When ventilation is not practical or effective, worker respiratory protection must be provided in the exposure area. Such areas require specific, controlled housekeeping practices.

Approved respiratory protective devices must be used for protection against airborne beryllium. A cartridge-type half face respirator is the minimum recommended type. Cartridge filters approved by NIOSH against dust, fume, and mist having a time weighted average less than 0.05 milligrams per cubic meter are the permissible type. The North Model 7700 respirators with HEPA cartridges (P/N-N-7500-8) is of this type. Respirators of equivalent performance can also be used.

Proper selection and use of respirators should be supervised by a trained person to assure proper sizing, fitting, use, cleaning, and maintenance of the devices. Paper-type dust masks or paint masks can not be substituted for the approved respirator.

If there is a concern about the safety of these operations in your shop, consult an industrial hygienist who can measure the air concentrations during the machining operations. Most hygienists can also recommend equipment and procedures to allow you to perform these operations safely.

This information applies to a specific manufacturing operation. If you need additional information on safe handling practices or technical data on beryllium products, contact Instrument Specialties Delaware Water Gap P.O. Box 650, Shielding Way Delaware Water Gap, PA 18327 Tel: +1.570.424.8510 Fax: +1.570.424.6213

All material presented courtesy of
Brush Wellman, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio and
Instrument Specialties Company Inc., Delaware Water Gap, PA.